Changes in perikymata and their significance to a postmortem dental identification

Perikymata are wavelike features that are normally found in the surface enamel of teeth. These structures are known to undergo regressive changes due to gradual attrition, mechanical abrasion, or chemical erosion. Forensic science has suggested that significance be placed on some forms of their loss as indicators of age, oral habits, and alignment of individual teeth. The dental identification of victims of a Vietnam War military aircraft crash is presented. The unusual pattern of perikymata change on two of the teeth suggests the antemortem existence of a removable partial denture. These findings support the exclusionary conclusions.