NCJ Number
209103
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 50 Issue: 2 Dated: March 2005 Pages: 406-410
Date Published
March 2005
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This study examined any deterioration in teeth exposed to four kinds of acid solutions over time.
Abstract
Human teeth without caries were used for the studies under the assumption that any caries could modify the behavior of the teeth when placed in contact with acids. The teeth were upper anteriors that had been extracted because of periodontal disease. The teeth were stored in a dry environment at room temperature before being exposed to the experimental procedures. The following acids/aqueous solutions were used in the studies: hydrochloric acid in a 37-percent solution, sulfuric acid in a 96-percent solution, nitric acid in a 65-percent solution, and aqua regia (chloroazotic acid-hydrochloric/nitric acid 1:3). The samples were immersed in an amount of acid solution suitable for achieving a correct volume ratio between the sample and the liquid phase (about 25 ml). The specimens were observed continuously until they were completely destroyed. At various intervals, the teeth were taken from the container, washed in distilled water, dried, photographed, and then replaced in the acid. The teeth were completely dissolved after 14 hours of immersion in the hydrochloric acid solution. After 90 hours in the sulfuric acid solution, the destruction of the samples was still incomplete. In nitric acid the teeth completely dissolved after 12 hours, and dissolution of the teeth was complete after 17 hours in aqua regia. It was possible to recognize the characteristic morphological features of the dental tissues and structures up until the advanced stages of degradation. Study limitations are noted and suggestions for future related research are offered. 4 tables, 8 figures, and 12 references