Scanning electron microscope corroboration of ameloglyphics - A new tool in forensic odontology

Background: Human teeth resist decomposition to the maximum and has immense potential to serve as hard-tissue counterpart to dermatoglyphics in forensic odontology. Ameloglyphics is the science of recording and analyzing the tooth print. Aims and Objectives: To assess the scope of viability, reproducibility, and identification of enamel prints (akin to fingerprints) and their patterns as a tool for identification. To establish that expression of enamel prints is a direct result of the enamel rod configuration on the surface of the crown as detected by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Materials and Methods: The teeth samples (n = 10) were first analyzed through (SEM) and the image of the arrangement of rods on the surface was captured. Enamel prints were registered in a standard procedure by virtue of ink transfer on a cellophane tape from etched tooth enamel surface of the same samples. These prints and SEM images were subjected to Rapid Sizer (R) image editing software to obtain a pattern (sketched outline image software). Patterns were identified manually. Results: Reproducibility, specificity, and feasibility of the above procedure were determined. There appeared to be a high rate of reproducibility (98%-100%) and specificity (100%). The paraphernalia required as well as the technique entrenched were feasible. Furthermore, the SEM analysis established the viability and reliability. Conclusion: Ameloglyphics is a sensitive and reproducible scientific tool that can be utilized for the management, examination, and evaluation of dental evidence for identification at crime scene and disaster sites. Its importance vis-a-vis fingerprints cannot be understated, especially in view of the seeming indestructibility of the enamel.