Oral Health and Maxillofacial Research

Forensic Dentistry

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The discipline of forensic dentistry, also known as forensic odontology, uses dental science to support legal investigations, mostly in bite mark comparison and human remains identification. In medico-legal matters, forensic odontology is essential, especially when the bodies are burned, decaying, or otherwise unidentifiable.

Recognizing Human Remains

Among the most resilient human tissues, teeth frequently survive postmortem procedures that eliminate other bodily tissues. Forensic odontologists compare antemortem and post-mortem dental records, such as radiographs, charts, and pictures. Positive identification is made possible by distinctive dental characteristics such as extractions, restorations, and anatomical abnormalities. Dental identification is especially useful in mass disaster situations due to its effectiveness and dependability. New techniques like dental pulp DNA analysis increase the possibility of identification, particularly in situations where traditional records are unavailable.

Bite Mark Analysis

The technique involves precisely recording the size, shape, and orientation of the bite mark and comparing it with a suspect's dental impressions. Bite mark analysis has been questioned, though, due to the subjective comparison process and the potential for skin elasticity to distort the mark. Even though bite mark evidence can be a valuable piece of evidence in criminal cases, particularly assault and homicide investigations, it is typically backed up by other forensic evidence.

Age Estimation

Determining the age of unidentified people is another crucial function of forensic dentistry. In children, it is based on the examination of tooth eruption and development, whereas in adults, it is based on the study of root dentin wear and translucency. Age estimates obtained from the surveys can help reduce the number of potential victims. Additionally, by looking at incremental growth lines, the study of the cementum can estimate age.

Cheiloscopy and Rugoscopy

Forensic odontologists use lip prints (cheiloscopy) and palatal rugae patterns (rugoscopy) along with teeth to identify a person. Lip prints feature specific patterns that can confirm a dead person's identity or connect a suspect to a crime. The palatal rugae are very important for forensic testing because they are specific to each individual and do not change throughout their lifetime.

Technological Advancements

Technological advancements have developed forensic dentistry. Computerized imaging and computer-assisted analysis increase the precision of dental comparisons. More accurate dental record matching is made possible by superimpositions and three-dimensional reconstructions. Additionally, the creation of databases for bite marks and dental records allows for more effective data comparison and retrieval, which helps in precise identification.