Dental anthropology and forensics: Answers to questions related to our past: Review of the literature

Abstract

Dental science is directly correlated to anthropology, which is attributed to teeth's significant advantages and properties. Meanwhile, justice is better and easier served due to the contribution of forensic odontology. The aim of the present literature review is to present the decisive contribution of dental science to the investigation of human species' evolution, as well as to the demystification of criminal cases. A thorough research has been conducted in scientific databases and scientific textbooks related to our review. It is obvious that the assessment of gradual modifications in human dentition as time passes by is indicative of human species' evolution. Nowadays, it is feasible to determine an excavated skeleton's identity and, as far as the ancient civilizations are concerned, to investigate their intercultural relationships, their dietary customs and their oral health's status. With regard to forensics, the structure of cranial bones is of great assistance in demystificating legal cases. Forensic odontology provides forensic medical examiners with the opportunity to faster identify deceased people and more effectively examine abused victims. Certainly, radiographic techniques, such as periapical radiographs as well as modern radiographic methodologies (CT, CBCT, MRI), offer additional diagnostic information in forensics. So, methodologies introduced by dental science have become a remarkable assist in anthropological researches, as well as in forensics. Nevertheless, there can be noticed a limited application of forensic odontology's principles in Greece. This fact may be attributed to the technological capabilities of our country's forensic laboratories rather than the Greek experts' level of expertise.