Bridging the Knowledge Gap in Forensic Odontology: A Cross-sectional Study Among Dental Professionals in India
Keywords:
Forensic Odontology, Dental Identification, Awareness Survey, Forensic Education, Dental Students.Abstract
Background: Forensic odontology plays a critical role in human identification in mass disasters yet remains underrepresented in dental curricula.
Aim: To assess the awareness and knowledge of forensic odontology among dental professionals in India.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 619 participants (UGs, interns, PGs, faculty, practitioners). A validated 14-item questionnaire was disseminated digitally. Awareness levels were categorised based on a composite score. Chi-square and Bonferroni tests were used for analysis.
Results: Bitemark analysis (73.8%) and DNA analysis (51.9%) were among the most recognised methods. Awareness of dental features such as palatal rugae (65.4%) and cusp of Carabelli (42.8%) was moderate. PGs and practitioners showed significantly higher awareness levels (p < 0.001) compared to UGs.
Conclusion: Awareness is uneven, with gaps evident particularly among undergraduate students.
Clinical Significance: The findings underscore the urgent need to integrate forensic odontology into the mainstream dental curriculum to improve readiness in medico-legal scenarios.