Avaliação da estimativa do intervalo pós-morte por meio da análise histológica da polpa dental: um estudo piloto

Abstract

Introduction: Death is a process that is difficult to diagnose, and determining the postmortem interval (PMI) is therefore challenging, requiring the use of multiple methods. Dentistry contributes to this field through the analysis of teeth, which are highly resistant structures. Thus, the present study aimed to histologically analyze dental structures for PMI estimation. Methodology: Sixty-six teeth were collected and divided into control and buried groups at the following time intervals: 24 hours (T1), 30 days (T2), and 3 months (T3). The method involved manual sectioning with a Carborundum disc and histological processing with decalcification using 5% nitric acid. Results: Preservation of dental tissues was observed at T1 and T2. However, the quantitative analysis using the parameters “absent,” “present,” and “not observed” was insufficient to describe the differences, making qualitative analysis more appropriate. Conclusion: The present study was consistent with the literature regarding PMI estimation, while showing notable differences related to the presence of the periodontal ligament and the use of 5% nitric acid, suggesting its potential as a decalcification method.