[The use of periapical X-rays in the identification of a corpse].

Abstract

The authors describe the procedure followed in the identification of a corpse by means of findings gathered from periapical X-rays. The interesting point about this identification is that it was practically based on one single tooth; The dental periapical X-rays of the person to which the body was suspected to belong, revealed certain peculiarities in the root outline and the endodontic treatment of an upper second right premolar. An X-ray of the corresponding tooth of the corpse was taken and the same identical findings were seen, thus documenting the identity of the corpse.