The effects of temperature on extracted teeth of different age groups: A pilot study

CONTEXT: Type of dentition and age related changes may affect the behavior of dental hard tissues under thermal stress. AIM: This study was conducted to analyze the effects of varying temperatures on extracted teeth of different age groups in a simulated laboratory set up. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Experimental pilot study. METHODS AND MATERIAL: Extracted teeth from three age groups (deciduous, young permanent and adult permanent) were collected and were exposed to three different temperatures (400°C, 700°C and 1000°C) in a laboratory set up. Post-test changes were analyzed visually and radiographically. RESULTS: (1) The colour changes of the teeth may serve as an indicator for the temperature to which they were exposed. (2) Deciduous teeth tolerated thermal stress with lesser morphological changes compared to young and adult permanent teeth. (3) Coronal dentin of elderly permanent teeth appeared to be more resistant to thermal stress compared to that of young permanent teeth. (4) The root portion of the teeth showed better tolerance to temperature while crown was fragmented easily under thermal stress. CONCLUSION: The age factor and type of the dentition may influence the heat induced changes in teeth. These variables should be taken into consideration while applying comparative dental identification methods where dental hard tissues are exposed to extreme temperatures.