Crime Sciences, Counterfeiting and Forgery Research Center
FORENSIC AND CRIMINAL SCIENCE CENTER
Assuit University
dribrahimeid@yahoo.com
Forensic Odontology is a relatively new science that utilizes the dentists knowledge to serve the judicial system. Worldwide, dentists qualified in forensic science are giving expert opinion in cases related to human identification, bitemark analysis, craniofacial trauma and malpractice.
Human identification relies heavily on the quality of dental records; however Forensic Odontologists can still contribute to the identity investigation in the absence of dental records through profiling the deceased person using features related to teeth.
Along with other healthcare providers, dentists encounter cases of injuries which could be non-accidental. Detection, interpretation and management are important from a legal and humanitarian point of view. Dentists should be aware of the legal impact those cases have, and should refer them to the appropriate authorities for suitable action.
Teeth are often used as WEAPONS in mortal combat situations, such as the violence associated with life and death struggles between assailants and victims. Using the teeth to inflict serious injury on an attacker may be the only available defensive method for a victim. Alternatively, it is well known that assailants in sexual attacks, including sexual homicide, rape and child sexual abuse, often bite their victims as an expression of dominance, rage and animalistic behaviour.
This article gives an insight to Forensic Odontology and outlines some of its medico-legal applications
Aims & Duties: Forensic Odontology Has Three Major Areas Of Utilization:
Diagnostic And Therapeutic Examination And Evaluation
Of Injuries To Jaws, Teeth, And Oral Soft Tissues,
The Identification Of Human Remains
Identification Of Mass Fatalities
Assessments Of Bite Mark Injuries
Assessments of cases of abuse (child,spousal,elder)
Civil Cases Involving Malpractice
Age Estimation