Abstract
Forensic odontology is a sub-discipline of dental science which involves the relationship between dentistry and the law. The specialty of forensic odontology is applied in radiographic investigation, human bite marks analysis, anthropologic examination and during mass disasters. Besides the fact that radiographs require pretentious laboratory, it is still claimed to be a facile, rapid, non-invasive method of age identification in the deceased. The budding DNA technology has conquered the traditional procedures and currently being contemplated as chief investigating tool in revealing the hidden mysteries of victims and suspects, especially in hopeless circumstances. Forensic odontology has played a chief role in solving cold cases and proved to be strong evidence in the court of law. Systematic collection of dental records and preservation of the same would marshal the legal officials in identification of the deceased. To serve the forensic operation and legal authorities, dental professionals need to be familiar with the basics of forensic odontology, which would create a consciousness to preserve the dental data. The aim of this paper is to emphasize the vital applications of forensic odontology in medico-legal issues. Conjointly the recent advancements applied in forensic human identification have been updated.
Highlights
Forensic odontology has much to contribute in human identification and medico-legal affairs
Justified fact that dental restorations and human teeth remain stable over a long spell, even in immeasurable situations like fire, forensic odontology can be of key aspect in identifying mutilated corpses.[3]
The focus of search was aimed towards the applications of forensic odontology in medico-legal issues
Summary
Forensic odontology has much to contribute in human identification and medico-legal affairs. It is the branch of dentistry that handles the legal issues of dental treatment and in particular the use of dental records to identify victims of crimes. Lollia Paulina, in the year 49 A.D, was the first reported case of forensic odontology.[1] This branch has served many years in identifying victims and suspects in mass disasters, abuse and organized crimes.[2] Justified fact that dental restorations and human teeth remain stable over a long spell, even in immeasurable situations like fire, forensic odontology can be of key aspect in identifying mutilated corpses.[3] Under these crucial circumstances, forensic dental identification is highly valuable.[4]. Present paper aims to document the historical journey of forensic odontology from its origin to present day contributions with a note on the contemporary approaches
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