Palatal Rugae Patterns in Edentulous Cases, Are They A Reliable Forensic Marker?

Abstract

One of the main objectives of the forensic sciences is establishing a person's identity which can be a very complex process. The analysis of the teeth, fingerprints and DNA evaluation are probably the most used techniques allowing fast and secure identification processes. Palatal rugae or transverse palatine folds are asymmetrical and irregular elevations of the mucosa located in the anterior third of the palate and are permanent, prominent and unique for individuals and thus can be used as identification for forensic purposes widely in edentulous patients wherein no teeth are present in the oral cavity. In forensic odontology dentists play a prime role in supporting legal and criminal issues. Palatoscopy or palatal rugoscopy is the name given to the study of palatal rugae in order to ascertain a person's identity. Studies have demonstrated that no two individual rugae patterns are alike in their configuration and the characteristic rugae pattern of the palate does not change as a result of growth. Hence this article reviews the significance of palatal rugae patterns in edentulous cases as a reliable forensic marker.