Analysis of enamel rod end pattern for personal identification

Area of Science:

• Forensic Odontology
• Human Genetics
• Dental Anatomy

Background:

• Tooth prints are formed by unique enamel rod arrangements on tooth surfaces.
• These patterns vary between adjacent groups of enamel rods.
• Tooth prints are utilized in forensic odontology for personal identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze enamel rod end patterns for personal identification.
• To investigate the familial inheritance of enamel rod end patterns.

Main Methods:

• 100 families (4 members each) were studied.
• Maxillary central incisors, canines, and first premolars were analyzed.
• Acetate peel technique and Verifinger software were used for pattern analysis.

Main Results:

• Eight distinct enamel rod end patterns were identified (wavy branched, linear branched, whorl, loop, etc.).
• The wavy branched pattern was most predominant across all studied teeth.
• Familial tendencies in tooth print patterns were observed in 65% (incisors), 66% (canines), and 52% (premolars) of families.

Conclusions:

• Tooth prints are unique to individuals.
• They serve as an inexpensive and valuable tool for personal identification in forensic odontology.
• Enamel rod end patterns exhibit familial inheritance characteristics.