Estimation and quantification of human DNA in dental calculus: A pilot study

CONTEXT: Identification using DNA has proved its accuracy multiple times in the field of forensic investigations. Investigators usually rely on either teeth or bone as the DNA reservoirs. However, there are instances where the skeletal or dental remains are not available or not preserved properly. Moreover, due to religious beliefs, the family members of the dead do not allow the investigating team to damage the remains for the sole purpose of identification. AIM: To investigate the presence of human DNA in dental calculus and to quantify the amount, if present. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective single-blinded pilot study included twenty subjects selected from the patients visiting a dental college. The samples of dental calculus were collected from the thickest portion of calculus deposited on the lingual surfaces of mandibular incisors. These samples were decontaminated and subjected to gel electrophoresis for DNA extraction. RESULTS: DNA was found in 85% cases. The amount of DNA varied from 21 to 37 μg/ml of dental calculus. CONCLUSION: Dental calculus is a rich reservoir of human DNA.