Role of Forensic Odontology in Tsunami Disasters

Abstract

On December 26, 2004, a 9.4 Richter scale earthquake occurred north of Sumatra Island and a forensic investigation was required for identification of tsunami disaster victims. In general, the purpose of an investigation was to identify the victim, to determine the time and place of death along with the cause and manner of death. In case of tsunami disaster, the main purpose of forensic investigation was the identification of victims. This article review the role of TTVI (Thai Tsunami Victim Identification Team), Thai forensic team, International disaster victim identification (DVI) team in tsunami identification, methods used for identification, problem encountered, number of bodies identified and remained for identification and plan for future.