Journal of Forensic Biomechanics

Role of Forensic Dentistry in Solving Legal Issues: An Overview of Forensic Odontology

Kamran Patil^* Department of Maxillofacial Surgery and Diagnostic Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
^*Correspondence: Kamran Patil, Department of Maxillofacial Surgery and Diagnostic Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia, Email:

Received: 03-Jan-2023, Manuscript No. JFB-23-20629; Editor assigned: 05-Jan-2023, Pre QC No. JFB-23-20629 (PQ); Reviewed: 19-Jan-2023, QC No. JFB-23-20629; Revised: 27-Jan-2023, Manuscript No. JFB-23-20629 (R); Published: 03-Feb-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2090-2697.23.14.423

Description

Odontology forensic, also known as forensic dentistry is a branch of forensic science that involves the application of dental knowledge to the investigation of legal issues. This field is concerned with the examination, evaluation, and presentation of dental evidence in legal proceedings. Forensic odontologists use their knowledge of teeth, jaws, and dental anatomy to identify unknown individuals, determine the cause of death, and provide evidence in criminal investigations. One of the main tasks of forensic odontology is to identify unknown individuals. This is done through the examination of dental records, including Xrays, photographs, and dental impressions. By comparing these records to the teeth of an unidentified individual, a forensic odontologist can determine whether or not the teeth belong to that individual. This process is often used in cases of mass disasters, such as plane crashes or natural disasters, where traditional methods of identification are not possible. In addition to identifying unknown individuals, forensic odontology is also used to determine the cause of death. Teeth can provide valuable information about the circumstances surrounding a person's death. For example, dental injuries can help determine whether a person was involved in a violent struggle or was the victim of a car accident. Bite marks can also be analyzed to determine the identity of an attacker or to determine whether or not an individual was involved in a particular activity, such as sexual assault.

Forensic odontology can also be used to provide evidence in criminal investigations. Teeth can be used to link a suspect to a crime scene or to identify the victim of a crime. Dental evidence can also be used to establish a timeline of events, such as when a person was last seen alive or when a body was moved to a different location. In some cases, dental evidence can even provide clues about the motive behind a crime.

The use of dental evidence in legal proceedings has a long history. In the early 1900s, a dentist named Dr. Oscar Amoedo used dental records to identify the body of a man who had been burned beyond recognition in a fire. This was the first time that dental evidence had been used in a legal case. Since then, forensic odontology has become an important part of the legal system, with dentists playing a critical role in the investigation and resolution of legal issues. To become a forensic odontologist, an individual must first complete a degree in dentistry. After completing dental school, the individual must undergo specialized training in forensic odontology. This training may involve coursework in forensic science, forensic pathology, and criminal law, as well as hands-on experience working with forensic cases. In addition, a forensic odontologist must be licensed to practice dentistry in their state or country of residence.

Conclusion

The skills and knowledge required to be a successful forensic odontologist are diverse. Forensic odontologists must have a deep understanding of dental anatomy and the structures of the mouth, as well as an understanding of how teeth change over time. They must also be familiar with the legal system and be able to present their findings in court.

In addition, forensic odontologists must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as they may be called upon to work with law enforcement officials, medical professionals, and other experts in the field. Forensic odontology is used in a variety of legal settings, including criminal investigations, civil lawsuits, and military tribunals. In criminal investigations, forensic odontologists may be called upon to analyse bite marks, dental records, and other dental evidence to help solve a crime. In civil lawsuits, they may be asked to provide expert testimony regarding dental injuries or malpractice. In military tribunals, they may be asked to identify the remains of soldiers who were killed in action.