Journal of Indo-pacific Academy of Forensic Odontology
Identification of a Victim by Skull Examination in Crime Cases: Real time studies
Awareness of Forensic Odontology among legal professionals in Delhi: A Survey based study
Background-: Forensic Odontology (FO) is an integral part of forensic medical sciences, which pacts with the appropriate handling, examination and demonstration of the dental evidence in the court of law. The practical applicability of forensic odontology largely depends on its utilization by legal professionals. So, the aim of this study was to access and evaluate the level of awareness regarding various domains of FO among the legal professionals practicing in Delhi. Methodology: A digital questionnaire in the form of google form consisting of a set of 13 questions was prepared and validated by a group of legal professionals. The responses were then cleared and & form was recirculated as a questionnaire- based survey among 280 legal professionals practicing in Delhi between the period of August and September 2025. The data was analyzed as per the sociodemographic details and the professional background related to the knowledge of forensic odontology and its applications pertaining to Indian laws and criminal cases. Statistical analysis was done using Chi square test as the test of significance. Results-: Out of 280 study participants, males and females were 167 (59.6%) & 113(40.4%) respectively with varying levels of professional experience. The response rate was 100%. Chi- square analysis revealed a statistically significant association between higher professional experience (>10 years) and awareness of forensic odontology applications, including heard of term FO (χ² = 9.6, p= 0.002*); handled FO cases during the professional course (χ² = 5.81, p= 0.016*); age determination (χ² = 7.5, p= 0.023); gender determination (χ² = 6.7, p= 0.035*), bite mark analysis (χ² =12.7, p=0.001); DNA identification (χ² = 6.9, p= 0.031*) and tooth loss or fracture as grievous injury (χ² = 5.4, p = 0.020*). Conclusion: From the current study, it is evident that practitioners with greater professional experience have better understanding of various domains of FO. Although dental evidence is considered very crucial and given considerable weightage in court, is rarely presented, depicting the lack of awareness regarding the practical utility of forensic odontology. Therefore, training through workshops and webinars should be conducted to strengthen the effectivity.
Original Study/Original Research Article
Forensic odontology, legal professionals, questionnaire survey, criminal investigation
Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Indo-pacific Academy of Forensic Odontology
Integrating 3D Printing into Digital Workflows for Reconstruction and Visualisation of Dental Evidence
Three-dimensional technology is an emerging and valuable tool in forensic odontology. It allows for the creation of digital models and their conversion into physical models. 3D printing specifically provides advantages in the preservation, reconstruction, and visualisation of dental evidence for analysis, education, and courtroom presentation. This techno-byte provides an overview of major 3D printing techniques and their possible applications in forensic odontology. Based on published literature, various techniques, their working mechanisms, the materials utilised for printing, and their accuracy are discussed. A typical digital workflow is also outlined, beginning with data acquisition through 3D surface scanning or medical imaging modalities, followed by segmentation, model generation, slicing, and post-processing. Despite its potential, 3D printing in forensic odontology remains largely research-based. Further validation, standardisation, and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential for its routine use in forensic casework and disaster victim identification.
Legal Practices in Forensic Odontology in India: An Evidence-Based Review
Forensic odontology – the application of dental science to legal investigations – has emerged as a vital yet underutilized discipline in India’s justice system. This article provides a comprehensive overview of forensic odontology and its legal relevance in India, examining the current legal framework, institutional guidelines, and key judicial precedents that govern its practice. We discuss representative case studies from Indian courts – involving human identification, bite mark analysis, and age estimation – where forensic dental evidence proved pivotal. Recent developments, including educational advancements and increased recognition of forensic odontology, are highlighted alongside persistent ethical and legal challenges facing practitioners. Key judicial rulings that have shaped the admissibility and weight of dental evidence in Indian courts are analyzed. Finally, we offer recommendations for strengthening the legal and institutional integration of forensic odontology into India’s justice system. The goal is to underscore the significance of forensic odontology in criminal and civil proceedings and to chart a path for its enhanced utilization, standardization, and recognition as a forensic specialty in India. However, emerging global scientific critiques—particularly regarding bite mark analysis—necessitate cautious interpretation and corroborative use of forensic odontological evidence within the Indian legal framework.
Forensic odontology; Expert evidence; Indian Evidence Act; Bite mark analysis; Disaster victim identification; Dental records; Age estimation; Juvenile justice; BNSS 2023; Ethics.
Medico-Legal Aspects of Routine Dentistry in India
Background: The evolving legal landscape in India has brought dental practice under increasing scrutiny, making medico-legal literacy essential for general dental practitioners. A rise in patient awareness, combined with access to consumer forums, has led to a significant increase in litigation against dentists. Objective: This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the medico-legal responsibilities of general dental practitioners in India, focusing on key legal concepts, landmark court judgments, common allegations, and practical risk mitigation strategies. Methods: A narrative medico-legal review was conducted using Supreme Court and consumer forum rulings, published medico-legal articles, and regulatory guidelines. Notable Indian precedents such as Indian Medical Association v. V.P. Shantha¹, Jacob Mathew v. State of Punjab², and Martin D’Souza v. Mohd. Ishfaq³ were evaluated for their relevance to dental negligence and informed consent. Results: Analysis revealed that common dental malpractice claims include wrong tooth extraction, failed endodontic treatment, cosmetic dissatisfaction, and inadequate consent. Legal liability is typically assessed based on breach of duty, causation, and deviation from accepted standards of care. Proper documentation, informed consent, patient communication, adherence to clinical protocols, and professional indemnity are critical preventive measures. Conclusion: General dentists must integrate legal compliance with ethical and clinical excellence. This review emphasizes the need for continuous medico-legal education and adoption of preventive protocols to foster a safe, accountable, and litigation-resilient dental practice in India.
Dental negligence, informed consent, Consumer Protection Act, dental litigation, professional indemnity, standard of care, medical ethics, Indian judiciary.
Beyond Orthodontics: Role of Cephalometric Indices in Forensic Odontology
Forensic odontology plays a significant role in human identification, particularly in cases involving mass disasters, skeletal remains, and decomposed bodies. Cephalometry, used in orthodontics and craniofacial growth analysis, has increasingly gained attention in forensic investigations. Cephalometric indices derived from craniofacial radiographs provide quantitative data that aid in the determination of sex, ethnicity, and age. These measurements rely on stable anatomical landmarks of the craniofacial skeleton and remain relatively preserved even after postmortem changes. This narrative review summarizes the evidence on their applications, methods, and limitations.
Forensic Odontology, Cephalometry, Human identification, Craniofacial measurements, Skeletal analysis
Rehabilitation of a Structurally Compromised Endodontically Treated Tooth with a Custom Cast Post and Core: A Case Report
Background: Successful rehabilitation of endodontically treated teeth depends largely on the amount of remaining tooth structure and the selection of an appropriate post system. Custom cast post and core restorations provide superior adaptation and retention in teeth with extensive coronal loss or flared canals. Case Presentation: A 32-year-old female presented with a fractured maxillary left lateral incisor following trauma. Clinical and radiographic findings revealed an Ellis Class III fracture with significant coronal destruction and a diagnosis of irreversible pulpitis with asymptomatic apical periodontitis. Root canal treatment was performed followed by post space preparation while maintaining 5 mm of apical gutta-percha. A custom cast post and core was fabricated using an indirect technique and cemented, and the tooth was restored with a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown. Conclusion: Custom cast post and core remains a reliable option for restoring structurally compromised endodontically treated teeth, providing adequate retention, strength, and long-term functional and esthetic rehabilitation.
Dental Trauma, Endodontically Treated Teeth, Post and Core
Artificial Intelligence & Deep Learning in Forensic Odontology: From Automated Age-Estimation to Dental Identification
Introduction: Forensic odontology plays a pivotal role in human identification, age estimation, and bite mark analysis. The rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Deep Learning (DL) has revolutionized data-driven forensic workflows, offering enhanced accuracy, speed, and reproducibility. Material and Method: To systematically map and synthesize the scope, applications, and trends in AI and DL for forensic odontology, from automated age estimation to dental identification the scoping review was done following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Searches were conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar up to August 2025 using keywords “Artificial Intelligence”, “Deep Learning”, “Forensic Odontology”, “Age Estimation” and “Dental Identification”. Eligible studies included original research, reviews and reports in English language involving AI/DL applications. Data were charted and synthesized accordingly. Results: From 486 initial records, 26 met inclusion criteria. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) were the most utilized architecture for dental radiograph analysis. Applications were clustered into: (i) Automated age estimation , (ii) Sex determination, (iii) Dental identification and (iv) Bite mark pattern recognition. Reported accuracies for age estimation ranged from 85% to 97%. Conclusion: Transfer learning and hybrid models showed increasing adoption post-2020. AI and DL show high potential in forensic odontology, with CNN-based models dominating the landscape. However, challenges in dataset standardization, model validation across populations, and legal admissibility remain. Future research should focus on explainable AI and cross-population generalizability.
Forensic odontology, Artificial Intelligence, Deep Learning, Age estimation, Dental
Forensic Dentists at the Frontline: Scene Examination & Mock Drill Training in DVI
Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) is a structured forensic process essential for recognizing individuals affected by mass fatality incidents. Among its phases, Phase 1: Scene Examination and Body Recovery is critical, as it involves preserving forensic evidence, assessing environmental factors, and establishing the context of the event. Forensic odontologists play a pivotal role in this phase by ensuring proper documentation of dental evidence, preventing contamination, and facilitating accurate retrieval of postmortem dental records. Remains found at disaster sites may vary from fragmentary, scorched, to decayed, presenting significant challenges for forensic teams. Difficulties arise in cases where remnants get mixed up, making it difficult to document and analyze the calamity site. Forensic pathologists, odontologists, and other forensic experts work collectively to overcome these obstacles and ensure accurate victim identification. However, due to the considerable mutilation and modification in dentition during disasters, there is a vital need for active planning and preparedness, as recommended by the International Organization for Forensic Odonto-Stomatology (IOFOS). This paper explores the specific responsibilities of forensic dentists in Phase 1, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence integrity. Additionally, it highlights the necessity of mock drill training sessions for forensic odontologists, which enhance preparedness, improve response times, and ensure systematic management of dental evidence in real-world disaster scenarios. Integrating structured DVI training into forensic odontology curricula can significantly enhance identification procedures, contributing to a more streamlined and effective disaster response system.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Indo-pacific Academy of Forensic Odontology
Imaging to Evidence: An Introduction to Forensic Radiology - Part I
Forensic radiology communicates through images in ways that words often cannot, particularly within the field of oral and maxillofacial sciences. The unique patterns of dentition and the resilience of skeletal structures provide reliable evidence in medico-legal investigations. Radiographic techniques such as cone beam computed tomography, panoramic radiography, and cephalometric analysis play a vital role in human identification, age estimation, bite mark assessment, trauma evaluation, and disaster victim identification. With the advancement of three-dimensional reconstruction, digital imaging, and artificial intelligence, forensic radiology now offers an unprecedented level of precision, enabling accurate and rapid comparison with antemortem records. Part I of this review article highlights the critical intersection of advanced dental imaging and legal justice, underscoring the role of oral and maxillofacial radiologists as both scientific experts and interpreters of hidden narratives within human remains. The details of the imaging techniques used and their interpretation are intended to be covered in the part II of the review.
Digital Forensics Meets Dental Evidence: The Role of Forensic Dentistry in Combating Cybercrime
In the age of rapidly advancing technology and rising digital threats, the field of forensic dentistry has begun to play a surprising yet significant role in cybercrime investigations. Traditionally linked to identifying human remains and bite mark analysis, forensic dentists now contribute valuable insights in cases involving identity fraud, digital impersonation, and facial recognition anomalies. Their expertise is crucial in authenticating biometric data, especially where dental imaging intersects with digital identity verification systems. This paper explores how forensic odontology is expanding its scope beyond the conventional, integrating with cyber forensics to tackle crimes like deepfake manipulations, illicit biometric data use, and cross-border identity theft. As cybercrime grows more sophisticated, so too must the interdisciplinary approaches to digital justice.
Cybercrime, Digital crime, Digital evidence, Forensic dentistry, Forensic odontology, Identity fraud.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap in Forensic Odontology: A Cross-sectional Study Among Dental Professionals in India
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.
Forensic Odontology, Dental Identification, Awareness Survey, Forensic Education, Dental Students.
Nasal Septum Patterns Through Panoramic Radiographs: A Forensic Study
Introduction: To evaluate patterns occurring in the nasal septum in the digital orthopantogram samples. In disasters such as natural disasters, accidents like fire or road traffic accidents, where the human body becomes severely destroyed or damaged, human skull radiography becomes a useful tool for identification of the human remains. Here, the study is done using a digital radiograph, which can be used to identify the human skull by determining the pattern of nasal septum. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted to investigate the uniqueness of various nasal patterns on Orthopantograms for determining the gender and personal identification. A total of 200 OPGs were selected and nasal septum patterns were evaluated. The radiographs were taken from Carestream CS8100 Orthopantogram-Xray machine and Carestream software. The OPGS were then traced was done through adobe acrobat software application to evaluate various patterns of the nasal septum. Result: Straight nasal septum was observed in 160 subjects, Nasal septum pattern with left deviation was found in 18 subjects, right deviated Nasal septum pattern was showed with 13 subjects. The total distribution of gender was 101 males (50.5%) and 99 females (49.5%). Straight Nasal septum deviation was recorded maximum in both the genders followed by left Nasal septum deviation. Conclusion: It was concluded that nasal septum deviations are an important consideration in forensic investigations. Aim: To evaluate the patterns occurring in the nasal septum in the digital orthopantogram (OPG) samples. Objectives •To study and determine the various patterns of the nasal septum. •To classify the various patterns and deviations of nasal septum through digital OPG. •To investigate its role in forensics.
Nasal Septum, Digital Radiograph, Forensic Identification, Forensic Study.
Development and Validation of a Novel Device for Three-Dimensional Bite-Mark Analysis: An In-vitro Study
Background: Bite mark analysis is a pivotal tool in forensic odontology, founded on the uniqueness of dental configurations. However, traditional photographic methods are increasingly criticized for subjectivity, distortion, and inter-observer variability, challenging their forensic credibility. Recent technological advancements have emphasized the need for standardized, three-dimensional approaches to improve the reliability of bite mark evidence. Aim: The present study aimed to develop and validate a novel three-dimensional bite mark analysis device and compare its diagnostic accuracy, reliability, and efficiency against conventional photographic methods. Materials and Methods: An in-vitro study was conducted using 60 bite mark specimens created on dental impression materials. Measurements were independently performed by two blinded forensic dental examiners using both the novel device and the photographic method. The novel device employed a vertical screw mechanism with an optical rotary encoder and dual-direction Persistence of Vision sensors to capture x, y, and z coordinates. Measurement accuracy, time taken, inter-observer reliability, sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic performance were assessed and statistically analyzed. Results: The novel device achieved significantly higher measurement accuracy (92.3%) compared to the photographic method (76.4%) (p < 0.001). The mean analysis time was reduced by nearly half with the novel device (6.8 minutes vs. 12.4 minutes, p < 0.001). Inter-observer reliability was greater with the device (kappa = 0.82) compared to photography (kappa = 0.65). Sensitivity, specificity, and area under curve values were also superior for the novel device. Conclusion: The novel bite mark analysis device demonstrated superior precision, efficiency, and reproducibility over conventional methods, offering a promising tool for enhancing the scientific and legal admissibility of bite mark evidence.
Bite mark analysis; Forensic odontology; Measurement accuracy; Three-dimensional imaging
Building DNA Analysis Facilities: An Opportunity for Forensic Infrastructure Development in Current Times
Comparative Evaluation of Demirjian and Willem’s Methods for Dental Age Estimation in Indian Children Aged 9–14 Years Using Orthopantomograms
Background: Age estimation is crucial in forensic and pediatric dentistry. Demirjian’s method is widely used but may overestimate age in non-Caucasian populations. Willems modified this method for broader applicability. Aim: To compare the accuracy of Demirjian and Willem’s methods in estimating dental age among Indian children aged 9–14 years. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using 80 orthopantomograms. Dental age was calculated using both methods and compared with chronological age. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests, correlation coefficients, and mean absolute error (MAE). Results: Demirjian’s method overestimated age by 0.7 years (p < 0.001), while Willems’ method closely matched chronological age (+0.1 years; p = 0.18). Willem’s method showed higher correlation (r = 0.91) and lower MAE. Conclusion: Willems’ method is more accurate and legally reliable for age estimation in Indian children and should be preferred in forensic and clinical contexts.
The accuracy of artificial intelligence–based virtual assistants in responding to routinely asked questions about Forensic dentisrty
Cementum Annulations as a Tool for Age Estimation In Forensic Odontology
Estimating age at death is a key element in the process of human identification of remains of the Skeleton. It is a vital process of forensic aspect of dentistry. Cementum annulation technique is one of the key techniques to estimate the age of a person atier death. Recent research shows that this technique of tooth cementum annulations (TCA) may be used more reliably than any other morphological or histological traits of adult skeleton for age estimation. Aim: The purpose of this study is to estimate the age of the subject using tooth cementum annulation method by incremental lines present in the cementum. Materials and Methods: The study consisted of the sample of twenty teeth that had been extracted from the patients ranging in the age of 20-70 years. Longitudinal ground sections of each tooth were cut and was examined under the microscope. The images were then zoomed / magnified on the computer and the number of dark lines were counted. The mid root region was selected for counting the annulations. The counted cementum lines for each tooth were then added to the eruption age of the tooth to estimate the age of the patient. Results: There was found a strong positive correlation between the estimated age and the calculated age of the person when examined under the microscope. This proves that cementum annulations can help give an accurate estimation of the persons age irrespective of the sex, age, periodontal disease etc. Conclusion: With this study we were able to conclude that counting the incremental lines can improve the accuracy of age estimation, in turn helping the process of forensic profiling of the subject.
A Compara????ve Analysis of Lip Print Pa????ern, Lip Competency, and Incisal Class in Indian Popula????on.
Intoduction: The pa????ern of lip print varies in various types of incisor rela????onships. It is useful in building up a database for diagnosis and is a crucial tool in forensic analysis.Objective:To compare lip print pa????erns, lip classifica????on, and incisal rela????onship in the Indian popula????on and to highlight the need to establish lip prints as an adjunc????ve tool for diagnos????c and forensic analysis. Material and Methods: Lip print pa????erns, lip classifica????on, and the incisal classifica????on were determined on a sample of 152 par????cipants who were randomly selected from a group of pa????ents and students from the Department of Orthodon????cs and Dentofacial Orthopaedics of different hospitals all over India were screened. The lip print of the par????cipants was screened with the aid of transparent tape over the lips, which had red lips????ck evenly spread with a brush over the upper and lower lips. Lip competencies (Jackson’s classifica????on) and incisal class (Bri????sh Standard Classifica????on of Malocclusion) were assessed by photographs, manually checking and casts. Results: In the collected sample, ver????cal pa????ern of lip print and Class I incisal rela????onship was more prevalent. The collected obtained was tabulated and subjected to sta????s????cal analysis. Differences in lip print pa????erns among different incisor classes was significant (p≤0.05) with ver????cal lip print pa????erns seen more in Class I and Class II div 2 subjects, Class II div 1 subjects had more of a re????cular pa????ern and Class III subjects had a branched pa????ern. There was no sta????s????cally significant difference in the associa????on between lip pa????ern and lip competency as well as an associa????on between incisor classifica????on and lip competency. Conclusion: Lip print pa????ern is a significant predictor of malocclusion at a younger age and can help in stopping the progression of malocclusion. The ver????cal lip print pa????ern was the most prevalent one among the subjects. A significant rela????onship exists between lip print pa????erns and the incisal classifica????on. These lip print pa????erns can be used for forensic database useful in crime solving, war, and terrorist ac????vi????es.
Incisal classifica????on, Lip competency, Lip print pa????ern.
Diversity of dental pa????erns in Delhi NCR, Indian popula????on and its significance in human iden????fica????on: A retrospec????ve panoramic study.
Background: Fingerprints, DNA, and den????????on are the principal markers used for forensic iden????fica????on. Frequently used dental characteris????cs for iden????fica????on include evidence of dental procedures as well as about condi????on of an individual tooth whether it is decayed or missing or virgin tooth. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate u????lity of orthopantomography for human iden????fica????on. Materials and methods: 500 total OPG were equally divided between males and females. Dental pa????erns were divided into 8 codes and their diversity was calculated. Results: The diversity of dental pa????erns in orthopantomography was 99.2%. The diversity was significant in males and females in the maxilla, upper anterior, lower right and lower anterior region. The individual dental pa????ern was significant in maxilla and lower right and lower anterior region. These findings have not been reported previously.
Dental diversity, forensic iden????fica????on, forensic den????stry, orthopantomography
Role of oral microbiome in forensic odontology
Oral bacteria form a dynamic biofilm community that is constantly challenged by the host and the environment. Human physiological ac????vi????es such as immunity, metabolism, and nutri????on are closely correlated with the resident microbial consor????a found in the mouth, gut, skin, nasal cavity and urogenital tract. The oral cavity serves as the main entry point for the human diges????ve tract and the oral biofilm contains one of the body’s most diverse loca????ons for microorganisms.1, Hard, non-shedding tooth surfaces in the mouth promote microbial coloniza????on and the development of the dental plaque biofilm. The mouth has a number of habitats other than the teeth like the tongue, gingival sulcus, cheek, hard and so???? palates which add to its enormous biological complexity. These loca????ons develop niches that are impacted by changes in the amount of oxygen and nutrients available. Mechanical stress and salivary flow, work in concert to support the coloniza????on and maintenance of various popula????ons.3. In forensic and criminal inves????ga????ons, saliva is the preferred bodily fluid due to its accessibility, non-invasiveness and cost-effec????ve collec????on techniques.4 Advances in DNA technology have increased the accuracy and enhanced the separa????on of human DNA in dried saliva stains derived from bite marks and lip prints. The study of the human microbiome, specifically the microbial DNA of bacteria, fungi, microeukarya and viruses in salivary secre????on can be related to this rela????vely new field of salivary research. When combined with well-established salivary biomarkers, this data can help forensic inves????gators be????er understand the suspect’s lifestyle, cohabita????on and health.5
Oral microbiome, saliva, forensic, crime
Varia????on of Palatal rugae in Palatal canine impac????ons amongst young adults- A Pilot Study: Original Ar????cle.
Intoduction:Development of Palatal rugae (PR) completes during early intrauterine life, while dental malocclusions in permanent den????????on take several years into postnatal life to get established. Research has shown the subtle associa????on between the palatal rugae pa????ern and malocclusion. Since the palatal rugae are stable structures and follow a common signalling pathway during craniofacial development, they can be helpful for the predic????on of dentoskeletal aberra????ons such as canine impac????on. Aim: To inves????gate whether an associa????on exists between morphological features of palatal rugae and palatally impacted canines. Methodology: A cross-sec????onal study was conducted on pre-treatment dental casts of 16 pa????ents with unilateral palatal canine impac????ons. The length, pa????ern, orienta????on, unifica????on and zone of the three anterior-most primary rugae on both sides (Group 1-impacted and group 2- normal side) were recorded using an integrated rugoscopy chart. Results: The mean length for 1st and 2nd PR on the impacted side was more, but less for 3rd PR and the results were sta????s????cally significant. The wavy pa????ern was predominant for all three rugae on both the impacted and normal sides. Regarding the orienta????on and unifica????on, all rugae in Group 1 & 2 were predominantly backward or posteriorly directed without unifica????on. Conclusion: The present clinical study provides a valuable insight that PR may also be used as addi????onal criteria for predic????ng canine impac????ons for the purpose of disaster vic????m iden????fica????on as well as predic????ng future malocclusion in children.
Disaster vic????m iden????fica????on, Impacted canine, Malocclusion, Palatal rugae, rugoscopy
Forensic Odontology: The Expanding Role of Oral Pathologists in Legal Investigations
Forensic odontology is a multidisciplinary field that intersects dentistry, pathology, and law to aid in legal investigations. Oral pathologists, with their expertise in oral tissues, histopathology, and disease diagnosis, are becoming increasingly vital in forensic odontology. Their contributions include human identification, age estimation, bite mark analysis, and trauma assessment. Additionally, legal recognition of forensic odontology as a specialized branch of dentistry is essential in ensuring standardized expertise and ethical forensic practice. This article explores the expanding role of oral pathologists in forensic odontology, highlights relevant legal precedents proving that dentistry is an integral part of medicine, and advocates for the formal recognition of forensic odontology as a distinct specialty.
forensic odontology, oral pathologist, medico-legal, den????stry
Applications of Imaging in Forensic Odontology: Pathway towards justice through Dentistry.
Establishing the personal iden????ty of an individual holds a major role in forensic and is usually compared with known features to unknown specimen. It plays a vital role in medico-legal cases in the iden????fica????on of a person. The human skulls of an individual are revival source for iden????fying vic????ms or suspects in forensic odontology. The morphological configura????on of mandible, foramen magnum, maxillary sinus and other features help in gender/ sex determina????on of an individual. Forensic radiology and forensic imaging play an important role in iden????fying the individual. In the last few years, forensic odontology has been challenging field within the forensic sciences and enabling the recogni????on of diseased individual. So, this paper highlights the various aspects of imaging that help in forensic odontology.
CBCT, forensic odontology, 3D, forensic inves????ga????on, Ante-mortem, Post-mortem
Cemental Annulation as an aid to age estimation in Forensic Odontology
Background Forensic dental photography is a cri????cal component of forensic odontology, aiding in individual iden????fica????on, bite mark analysis, and documenta????on of dental evidence in criminal inves????ga????ons. It provides a permanent and accurate visual record of dental structures, injuries, and forensic evidence. Objective This paper explores the techniques, applica????ons, and legal implica????ons of forensic dental photography, with a focus on how advancements like 3D prin????ng and Alternate Light Imaging (ALI) enhance forensic den????stry. Methods Forensic dental photography relies on standardized imaging techniques, including proper ligh????ng, scale calibra????on, and high-resolu????on imaging, to ensure accuracy and clarity. ALI improves visibility of bite marks and so???? ????ssue injuries, while 3D prin????ng enables precise reconstruc????on of dental structures and bite mark impressions. Digital photography advancements further enhance storage, sharing, and analysis of forensic images. Results The integra????on of ALI and 3D prin????ng with forensic dental photography has led to improved evidence preserva????on, enhanced bite mark analysis, and greater accuracy in vic????m iden????fica????on. These technologies assist forensic experts in comparing dental records, iden????fying vic????ms in disasters or crimes, and presen????ng admissible evidence in court. Conclusion With con????nuous advancements in digital imaging, 3D prin????ng, and ALI, forensic dental photography has become a vital tool in modern forensic science. These innova????ons strengthen forensic inves????ga????ons by improving documenta????on accuracy, evidence reliability, and legal admissibility. Standardized imaging techniques ensure accuracy and reliability, while advancements like Alternate Light Imaging (ALI) and 3D prin????ng enhance forensic inves????ga????ons. ALI improves the visibility of bite marks and injuries, whereas 3D prin????ng enables precise reconstruc????on of dental evidence. These technologies contribute to be????er evidence preserva????on, increased accuracy in vic????m iden????fica????on, and stronger courtroom admissibility. With ongoing innova????ons in digital imaging and forensic methodologies, Forensic Dental Photography remains an essen????al tool for modern forensic science and criminal inves????ga????ons.
Forensic, Dental, Photography, Odontology
Dental Pulp Stem Cell: A Promising Tool in Forensic Odontology
Forensic odontology, also known as forensic den????stry, is a specialized field within den????stry that deals with the applica????on of dental science in medico-legal inves????ga????ons, iden????fying accidental human remains during mass disasters, iden????fying vic????ms from the site of crime scene. Most of human body parts perish a????er death, but tooth is one such organ which is incredibly resilient, preserving DNA well even in extreme condi????ons that may destroy other human body parts. Therefore, they serve as an excellent source of gene????c material for iden????fying individuals in forensic cases. Stem cells, with their ability to develop into different cell types, have various applica????ons in forensic inves????ga????ons, including iden????fica????on, reconstruc????on, and age es????ma????on. Dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) and stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) are par????cularly valuable in forensic iden????fica????on. Amongst other methods used in Forensic odontology the use of DPSCs gives us significant results and aid in an accurate finding. The ar????cle intends to discuss the basis of DPSCs, its sources and methods of isola????on, applica????ons, accuracy of DPSCs through case study and its limita????ons.
Forensic Odontology; Forensic Den????stry; Stem Cells; Dental Pulp Stem Cells
Cervico-Incisal measurements of Incisors, Cuspids, and Molars for Gender Estimation:A Pilot Study in Western Uttar Pradesh
Background: Dental forensic anthropology is a specialized field within forensic den????stry that focuses on examining the variations in dental morphology and measurements of human teeth across different ????me periods (both prehistoric and modern) and geographical regions (including ethnic influences). Objectives:o check whether there is sexual dimorphism in cervico-incisal dimensions of incisors, cuspids and molars. Methods: Cross sectional study conducted in 60 patients, aged 25-60 years from daily hospital OPD at Aligarh. Impressions of both the maxillary and mandibular arches were taken using irreversible hydrocolloid-alginate material. To prevent any distor????on, the impressions were promptly cast with type IV dental plaster. The resul????ng study models were then measured using a digital Vernier caliper (resolu????on 0.01 mm) (Aerospace) to ensure precise data collection on study casts. The data thus obtained was tabulated and subjected for further sta????s????cal analysis using SPSS 20.0 (Microso???? Corpora????on Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results The le???? mandibular first molar with SDI of 134.5%, and poten????ally other mandibular measurements, could be highly reliable markers for sex determina????on in forensic inves????ga????ons. Conclusion The present data underscores that male den????????ons are consistently larger than female den????????ons, with the mandibular teeth especially le???? mandibular first molar demonstra????ng the most significant differences.
Awareness and Ulisaon of Forensic Odontology Among Police Personnel of Uarakhand: A Knowledge, Atude and Pracce Study
Introduction: Forensic odontology (FO) is a critical branch of dentistry that contributes significantly to criminal investigations by examining and preserving dental evidence. Police personnel, otien the first responders at crime scenes, play a pivotal role in evidence collection and handling. However, the effectiiveness of FO is contingent upon their knowledge and training. Aim: To assess the knowledge, atitude, and practices (KAP) of police officials regarding forensic odontology, with a focus on identifying, collecting, utilizing, and interpreting dental evidence. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 236 police personnel using a pre-validated questionnaire comprising 22 questions. The questionnaire aimed to assess the participants' awareness, atitude, and practical application of forensic odontology. Results: 207 Police personnel participated in our study out of which 187 were male. Higher-ranking officers and those with graduate or postgraduate education demonstrated commendable knowledge and positive attiudes toward forensic odontology with a response rate of 85%. However, significant knowledge and practice gaps were identified, particularly among constables and head constables. A majority expressed a willingness to atiend training or seminars to enhance their understanding. Conclusion: Improving the knowledge and practical application of forensic odontology among police personnel through structured training programs and interdepartmental collaboration can enhance the preservation and use of dental evidence in investigations.
Forensic odontology, Dental evidence, Police, Awareness, Evidence collec????on
The Current Use of Artificial Intelligence in Disaster Victim Identification