Evaluation of the efficacy of titanium plates as denture markers under various heat sources and pressure - An in vitro study

INTRODUCTION: Denture Markers are used as one of the main identifying aid in mass disasters. Dental description of missing person in mass disasters plays a vital role in forensic research. Difficulties arise when the teeth are missing. In such situation the prosthodontic identification (ID) of replaced teeth becomes the priority. Till recently, there was no development of denture marker that could withstand massive fire accidents. AIM: To determine the use of titanium chips with identity code engraved on it as denture markers that could withstand high temperature and pressure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Wax patterns were fabricated with identity code moulded on a rubber stamp. It was invested and casted with titanium. Titanium chips were inserted into the polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) block and subjected to various heat treatments. RESULTS: There was no loss of identity when subjected to 1,500°C overnight but only residues left under pressure of 200 kg/cm(3). CONCLUSION: The literature recommends the metallic denture markers in order to withstand the post morten assaults. Titanium denture markers could be a preferred option as it can withstand high temperatures under pressure also.