The purpose of this paper is to present the horizontal sectioning technique used by odontologists at the Central Identification Laboratory to sample dentin for mtDNA analysis. From the perspective of DNA testing, anthropologists and odontologists at the Central Identification Laboratory work with ancient remains. In many instances, the lack of comprehensive antemortem records, the potential for fragmentation and commingling, and environmental exposure makes the use of traditional forensic identification techniques difficult or impossible. Teeth are highly resistant to environmental degradation and are an excellent source of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). This technique is simple, quick, and relatively conservative, allowing for preservation of the majority of the external portion of the tooth structure.

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A World War II mass grave was recovered in 1999 by a U.S. Army team and yielded 20 complete skeletons. A case study involving the identification of one of these individuals is presented in this article. The thought processes and problems that presented themselves to the forensic anthropologist and odontologist are detailed. Methods used to establish identity are described. This case demonstrates how standard operating procedures used by a forensic anthropologist and odontologist can narrow the field of possible individuals associated with remains, and with extra information--in this case, a military radiograph taken in 1941--can ultimately establish the identity of a decedent. The authors learned that some medical records, which at first glance appear to be excess or irrelevant, may contain the item required to be certain that a case is strong in support of a recommended identification.

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