Optimizing the analysis of dental enamel microstructure in intact teeth

Author(s)

Arrieta, Zulieth Lopez ; Peres Line, Sergio Roberto

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: MICROSCOPY RESEARCH AND TECHNIQUE; v. 80, n. 7, p. 693-696, JUL 2017.
• Web of Science Citations: 2

Abstract

In most mammalian species enamel prisms are regularly arranged in layers of alternating directions forming an angle of approximately 90 degrees. These successive layers of prisms are known as Hunter-Schreger bands (HSBs). The analysis of HSBs may provide valuable information regarding the species life history, taxon and personal identification, with evident applicability in physical anthropology and forensics. Obtaining good quality digital images of HSBs in intact specimens is not always a feasible task. The major problems are the low contrast of images; the reflection of incident light, which may create areas of intense shine in digital images; and the abrupt decrease in the degree of illumination that occurs after light crosses the vertical cracks, frequently present in enamel. We show here that the area of intense shine can be minimized by a polarizing filter coupled to the camera objective, and the filling of enamel cracks with corn oil can reduce refraction of light in enamel cracks. These procedures can significantly increase the quality and the area of HSBs that can be recorded in intact teeth. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 14/07112-1 - Otimizing the capture and análisis of Hunter-Schreger bands for human identification
• Grantee: Sergio Roberto Peres Line
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants