Interest of the use of scannIng electron MIcroscope In forensIc dentIstry

Abstract

The alteration of human remains, especially in the presence of charred bodies, can compromise the forensic
victim identification. The recent developments of imaging techniques allow forensic specialists to face with these
difficulties. With its strong imaging magnification, the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) enables to study the
surface of dental tissues with extreme accuracy. It allows to determinate that a teeth was treated when the presence of traces left by dental instruments are highlighted. Associated to SEM, Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS, EDX, or XEDS) gives information on the chemical characterization of a sample. Used on dental tissues, it allows to discriminate the origin of the sample (human or not). Used on dental composite material, it allows
to determinate the brand mark of the resin. Such information are of prime importance in the identification process
of victims.