Forensic Odontology: The Silent Witness in Crime Investigation

Forensic Odontology: The Silent Witness in Crime Investigation

Question. Write a short note on forensic odontology.

Answer. Forensic odontology is that branch of dentistry which, in the interest of justice, deals with the proper handling and examination of dental evidence and with the proper evaluation and presentation of dental findings.

“Importance of studying forensic odontology for better investigative outcomes: Questions explained”

Fédération Dentaire Internationale (FDI)

Scope Of Forensic Odontology

• Identification: It helps in personal identification, individually or in mass disasters. This is also done through comparison of antemortem and postmortem dental information.
• Age assessment: This is done to assess the age of the person.
• Record preparation: Correct handling as well as examination of presentation of dental evidence in civil and criminal legal cases. These records make the foundation on which]
• Identification of bite marks: It is involved in the identification of bite marks in criminal cases.
• Child abuse: For the detection of child abuse or human abuse, too.
• Lip print: For comparison and identification of the suspect, lip prints are examined.
• Legal aspect: In cases of dental traumatology.

“Understanding the role of forensic odontology in crime investigation: Q&A explained”

Parameters to be Compared in Forensic Dentistry

• Teeth
• Prosthetic appliances, i.e., bridges, partials, crowns, false teeth
• Shape, form (morphological) peculiarities
• Genetic anomalies.