NCJ Number
212926
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 51 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2006 Pages: 113-119
Date Published
January 2006
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This study assessed the benefits and limitations of the newer dental computed tomography (CT) imaging-based software called Dentascan in terms of its performance in helping identify victims from their distinctive dental characteristics.
Abstract
For the three corpses used in the testing, dental panoramic images could be reconstructed and compared to antemortem radiographs. The images from Dentascan showed the basic components of teeth (enamel, dentin, and pulp); the anatomic structure of the alveolar bone; missing or unerupted teeth; and restorations of the teeth; however, when image quality was reduced due to metal-containing dental work, it was necessary to perform postmortem conventional radiographs in order to compare the detailed shape of the restoration with antemortem images. The Dentascan shows the entire U-shaped maxilla and mandible flattened out on one image. Compared to traditional methods of recording and viewing dental characteristics, the key advantage of Dentascan is its noninvasive, digital procedure for revealing dental characteristics without jaw resection, which is often performed to facilitate traditional radiological documentation on decomposed, charred, and mutilated corpses, In the near future, identification procedures will be further advanced by using Dentascan in the antemortem documentation of teeth characteristics. Consistent image quality under Dentascan will be improved because less metallic restorations are required in younger people today; and restorations will more often use radiolucent nonmetallic composite material. 5 figures and 17 references