How many surfaces are available for identification in adult teeth?

The correct answer indicates that there are 160 surfaces available for identification in adult teeth, which reflects a clear understanding of dental anatomy. Each adult human typically has 32 teeth, and each tooth can have multiple surfaces that are used for identification in forensic cases.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Incisors have 4 surfaces each (mesial, distal, facial, and lingual).

• Canines also have 4 surfaces each.

• Premolars generally have 5 surfaces each.

• Molars have 5 to 6 surfaces depending on their position.

When you calculate the total number of surfaces from all these types of teeth in a full set of adult teeth, the sum reaches 160. This provides forensic investigators with a wealth of unique identifying characteristics when analyzing dental records, particularly in situations involving unidentified remains.

Understanding this number is crucial for medical examiners and those involved in death investigations, as dental records can provide essential identification information in both legal and medical contexts.