Survey among General Practitioners in Chennai about Dental Restorations being used as a Forensic Tool

Abstract

Aim: To assess the knowledge among general practitioners in chennai regarding dental restorations being used a tool in victim identification and various changes that the restorations undergo in mass disasters. Background: Forensic Odontology is an emerging branch in dentistry in recent days. Teeth serve as a valuable tool in forensic identification. In recent days there are many studies stating that restorations can be used as a tool in forensic identification, as the restorative material can withstand high temperatures. Therefore knowledge about restorative materials and its importance in forensic identification is essential among dental practitioners.A cross sectional survey was carried out among 437 randomly selected dentists in Chennai district, Tamilnaduand the results were analysed. Result: Awareness regarding dental restorations being used as a forensic tool is less among the general practitioners in Chennai. Conclusion: Knowledge to be imparted to dentists regarding the role of restorations in forensic odontology and to kindle interest in the field of Forensics among the dental students.