We now provide Toothprints® for our patients!  Toothprints® bite impressions is the latest technology used in identifying children by their bite (tooth position in the arches, relationship of upper to lower jaw, as well as unique tooth characteristics), DNA (sufficient proteins in the saliva remain on the wafer from which a DNA test can be performed), and saliva (trained dogs can identify and track a specific saliva scent).  One of the greatest fears of parents today is that their child will get lost, or worse yet, be abducted.  Indicative of this concern is the fact that to date, 34 states have implemented AMBER alert systems that issue state-wide public alerts about missing children1.  Making a Toothprints? bite impression is easy at any age and will give parents peace of mind.

Toothprints® is an arch-shaped thermoplastic wafer that gets softened in hot water.   The patient bites down into the wafer for 20 seconds.  The wafer is then removed and allowed to cool-down for 2-3 minutes.  It is then sealed in a ziplock storage bag (saliva is not washed off) and labeled with patient’s name, date of birth and date of impression.  Parents can then bring home their child’s impression and keep it in a dark location such as a drawer or safety-deposit box.

We recommend the following guidelines for Toothprints®:

• Age 3 (or after all primary teeth have erupted)
• Age 8 (or after the upper and lower incisors and the first permanent molars have erupted)
• Age 13 (or after all permanent teeth, excluding third molars, have erupted)

The following are some commonly asked questions and answers regarding Toothprints® as researched by the Kerr Dental Company:

Q. How long does the scent last on the Toothprint®
A. While no clinical studies have been done, we do know that the scent lasts for several years.

Q. Should I put the Toothprint in the freezer to extend the life of the DNA?
A. Storing the Toothprint in the freezer will extend the DNA, but it will also have a detrimental effect on the scent remaining on the wafer.  It is recommended that the wafer be stored at room temperature in a place that parents can access easily at any time.

Q. Are there other things that could go into a package including a Toothprint that parents should keep on hand?
A. Other items might include a Polaroid picture, written description of the child, a list of any identifying marks on the child, and a strand of hair.

Q. Why would using a Toothprint with a tracking canine be better than using clothing?
A. When using clothing, the scent is carried by dead skin cells and can dissipate over time.  These cells can also be washed out of clothing removing any scent.  Toothprints captures saliva which is a strong scent carrier that will remain on the wafer over time.¹