Morphologic, Radiographic, and Stereomicroscopic Evaluation of Teeth Subjected to High Temperatures: An In vitro Forensic Study

Abstract Background To evaluate morphologic, radiographic, and stereomicroscopic changes of teeth when subjected to specific high temperatures in both direct heat and gradual heat and to compare the changes among two heat groups and also among different types of teeth. Materials and Methods An in vitro study was conducted on 90 healthy extracted human teeth, in which the teeth were divided into two groups. Group 1 (45) was subjected to direct heat and Group 2 (45) was subjected to gradual heat. Group 1 and Group 2 were further subdivided into three subgroups (A) anteriors, (B) premolars, and (C) molars each consisting of 15 teeth. Teeth were subjected to temperatures of 200°C, 400°C, 600°C, 800°C, and 1000°C in a muffle electric furnace. The color changes were noted using the Revised Munsell soil color chart and the radiographic and stereomicroscopic changes were evaluated. The results obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. Results Teeth in direct heat showed more destructive changes at lower temperatures, i.e., 400°C and 600°C when compared to gradual heat where changes are observed at 600°C and 800°C. Among different types of teeth, anteriors and premolars showed more changes when compared to molars. Interpretation and Conclusion It can be concluded that dental evidence may provide clues to solve the mystery in fire investigations as dental structures are the last to be destroyed under extreme conditions, whether temperature, acid, or putrefaction.