Scanning electron microscopy of incinerated teeth

Area of Science:

• Forensic dentistry
• Materials science
• Dental histology

Background:

• Understanding the effects of high temperatures on dental tissues is crucial for forensic identification and material science applications.
• Previous studies have explored thermal alterations in teeth, but detailed microscopic analysis across a wide temperature range is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the morphologic changes in human enamel and dentin when subjected to high temperatures (200-1,000°C) in vitro.
• To determine the threshold temperatures and durations at which these dental tissues lose their microscopic identifiability.

Main Methods:

• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine human enamel and dentin samples.
• Samples were incinerated in vitro at temperatures ranging from 200°C to 1,000°C for varying durations.

Main Results:

• Human enamel and dentin remained microscopically identifiable even after incineration at 1,000°C for over 3 hours.
• No consistent morphological differences were observed in enamel or mineralized dentin between 200°C and 600°C.
• Temperature-dependent changes were noted in the predentin zone.
• At 800°C (over 3 hours) and 1,000°C (3 hours), enamel and dentin underwent a metamorphosis into a globular form.

Conclusions:

• Human enamel and dentin retain their microscopic integrity at incineration temperatures up to 1,000°C.
• Significant structural transformation (globularization) of enamel and dentin occurs at temperatures of 800°C and above.
• These findings have implications for forensic science in identifying remains subjected to extreme heat.