Methods of Identification in Forensic Dentistry

The subject of Forensic Odontology has been generating as an area of emphasis for all interested and properly trained dentists in all hazards response. Many States have recognized the role of forensic dentist in the areas of emergency/hazard readiness. Forensic Odontology or Forensic Dentistry has been a discipline within the oral medicine fold and has been a well-accepted role for dentists. When the Tsunami in the Tamilnadu in 2001 and Bomb blasts in Mumbai in 2008 struck the people , another facet in the role of dentists and dentistry in emergency response as a forensic expert came to the collective consciousness of oral health professionals. The dentists participating in such events should be properly trained to have a meaning full role in disaster response. The dental evidence in forensic investigation is legally accepted. However there are certain pitfalls associated with the various methods in forensic dentistry. In this review various methods employed in the forenic odontology for personal identification such as Bite marks, Cheiloscopy , Rugoscopy , photographs and radiographs are discussed.