From Color to Clue, Unraveling the Forensic Significance of Pink Teeth in Postmortem Analysis
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Background: The postmortem pink teeth phenomenon (PTP) is a notable change in tooth color, resulting in a pinkish hue after death. Observed in various forensic contexts, including drowning, poisoning and physical trauma, the correlation between PTP and specific causes of death has remained ambiguous.Case Presentation: This study discusses two cases involving cadavers exhibiting the PTP, where we conducted an analysis of pink teeth alongside other findings concerning the postmortem interval.Conclusion: A comprehensive analysis of PTP requires consideration of various forensic elements. The phenomenon is closely associated with decomposition processes and is often observed in water immersion cases. A multidisciplinary approach involving forensic medicine and odontology is essential for understanding the physiological changes after death and assessing the potential significance of PTP as a postmortem indicator. By integrating these diverse aspects, forensic investigators can gain deeper insights into the circumstances surrounding death. Although PTP is not pathognomonic for any specific cause of death, it serves as a valuable indicator that can assist in forensic investigations. Further studies are necessary to clarify its implications in various forensic contexts and enhance its application in medico-legal assessments.
Institution: University of Indonesia
Language: English
Subfield: Archeology
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Funder: Universitas Indonesia
OpenAlex ID: W4411183484