Project FIND-EM
Help Bring America's Heroes Home
Like an accent, the chemistry of your teeth reflects where you grew up. As your teeth form, they record the isotope chemistry of the environment we live in.
We’re collecting wisdom teeth from donors across the United States to advance forensic identification efforts for the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA).
Join our mission to build a groundbreaking oxygen isotope database that aids in identifying missing U.S. service members and reuniting them with their families.
The Problem
At present, more than 81,000 Americans remain unaccounted for from WWII, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and recent conflicts. Many of these individuals made the ultimate sacrifice far from home, and their families have waited decades for answers.
Traditional identification methods have limits. That’s where our research comes in. By creating a comprehensive oxygen isotope database using donated wisdom teeth, we’re developing innovative tools to improve identification efforts.
This data will enable forensic experts to link remains to geographic origins, offering a vital step in reuniting service members with their loved ones.
Real Impact
After nearly 75 years, U.S. Army Sgt. Charles Beaty, who served in both World War II and the Korean War, was finally identified and laid to rest in his hometown of Lake City, Arkansas, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA). Using advanced anthropological and isotope analysis, alongside DNA testing, scientists were able to confirm Beaty’s identity, bringing long-awaited closure to his family and community. Sgt. Beaty’s return highlights the power of scientific advancements in honoring a sacred promise: to account for every missing American service member.
How It Works
Our teeth grow early in life, and as they form they record the isotope chemistry of the environment we live in. This record isn't a perfect copy, but more like a code. Teeth preserve these signatures in their enamel throughout life. If we understand how the local isotope signatures are recorded in the enamel – how to 'decode' the signals – we can use isotope values measured in teeth to learn where an individual lived as a child.
Project FIND-EM is developing a database that will allow scientists to break the enamel isotope code. We are working with individuals, dentists, and dental schools to collect thousands of teeth extracted during routine dental work.
You can help us in our mission by donating your wisdom teeth to our study.
Testimonials
“Donating my wisdom tooth was such a small act, but knowing it could play a role in identifying missing service members and bringing them home fills me with pride.”- Dianne V.
“I have always been fascinated by forensic science and how impactful something as simple as a strand of hair or a tooth can uncover information about an individual. With Project FIND-EM, I know that the information generated from my wisdom tooth will have a long and profound impact on forensic anthropological studies aiding scientists with another tool to identify human remains, including military members from overseas conflicts.” - Christy M.
“By standardizing isotope data collection, this initiative is pushing the field of forensic anthropology forward in a meaningful way.” - Emma S.
“It feels incredible to know that something as simple as my wisdom tooth could contribute to identifying a missing service member. This project made me feel like I was giving back to those who gave everything for us.” - Jake C.
“As someone with family in the military, this project really hit home for me. Donating my wisdom teeth was a way I could contribute to an important mission.” - Liam P.
Questions?
Contact FIND-EM@utah.edu to get more information on the project
Make an Impact Today
Click below to learn how you can donate your wisdom teeth and support our mission. Every contribution brings us closer to honoring the sacrifice of those who gave everything for their country.