NCJ Number
158062
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 40 Issue: 5 Dated: (September 1995) Pages: 755-757
Date Published
1995
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This study examines the possibility that rates of disarticulation of dental structures could facilitate estimation of time since death on partial remains or isolated skulls and crania.
Abstract
Tooth loss was investigated at weekly intervals in nine male and two female cadavers; researchers applied slight pressure to each tooth in order to detect separation from the alveolar bone and to remove already detached teeth. The results showed that the subjects who had been deposited in the summer lost their teeth much more rapidly than those deposited in late fall or winter. Individuals exposed to direct sunlight also lost their teeth before individuals placed in shady locations. Tooth loss was correlated with general soft tissue deterioration as dictated by season and environment. 2 figures and 14 notes