The application of tetracyclines in forensic dentistry.
Therapeutic administration of tetracyclines, widely used antibiotic drugs, permanently labels layers of dentin that are calcifying at the same time. A method is described for detecting and photographing these stained layers of dentin. The presence of tetracycline-labeled dentin layers in the teeth of subjects of a forensic science investigation can be used for the individualization of specimens as well as to provide information about the age of the individual. When compared to medical records, the tetracycline-labeled dentin layers can also assist in establishing the identity of the subject. The interpretation of tetracycline-labeled dentin layers and its pitfalls are discussed.
D000367:Age Factors; D003804:Dentin / Q000187:drug effects*; D005553:Forensic Dentistry; D006801:Humans; D009805:Odontogenesis; D013194:Staining and Labeling; D013754:Tetracyclines / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*
D013754:Tetracyclines