This article was automatically translated from the original Turkish version.
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Forensic odontology is a discipline that applies dental knowledge within the framework of forensic sciences. This field contributes to the identification of individuals by leveraging the unique characteristics of teeth. The hard structure and resistance of teeth to environmental influences enable them to serve as a reliable source of evidence in forensic cases.
Teeth exhibit individual variations, and restorations, prostheses, and other dental treatments are unique to each person. These features play a crucial role in identifying bodies that are burned, decomposed, or fragmented. Identification of individuals can be achieved by comparing antemortem (before death) and postmortem (after death) dental records. Additionally, samples obtained from teeth are also used in identification processes.
The morphological and metric properties of teeth can be used for sex and age determination. For example, the size, shape, and structure of teeth provide clues for sex identification. Furthermore, the degree of tooth wear and developmental stages assist in estimating an individual’s age. These methods are commonly used in the examination of skeletal remains.
Bite marks may be found at crime scenes or on victims’ bodies and can constitute important evidence in identifying perpetrators. In bite mark analysis, the arrangement, spacing, and other characteristics of teeth are examined to determine the identity of the biter. However, debates persist regarding the reliability and validity of this method.
Forensic odontology education in Türkiye is limited, and the level of knowledge among dentists in this field is insufficient. A study has determined that dental students and practitioners have inadequate knowledge of forensic odontology and require further training in this area.
Dentists play a vital role in identification processes within forensic cases. However, it has been found that dentists in Türkiye have low awareness of their potential roles in Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) teams. This gap highlights the need for increased education of dentists in the field of forensic sciences.
Forensic odontology makes significant contributions in areas such as identification, sex and age determination, and bite mark analysis by integrating dental knowledge with forensic sciences. Increasing education and awareness in this field in Türkiye is essential to enable dentists to effectively fulfill their roles in forensic cases.
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The Role of Teeth in Identification Processes
Sex and Age Determination
Bite Mark Analysis
Forensic Odontology Education and Awareness in Türkiye
The Role of Dentists in Forensic Cases