New perspectives in forensic dentistry identification: a narrative review
Ahmed A.M. EssaBackground:
Forensic dentistry is a branch of science that focused on the proper collection, handling, thorough examination, accurate clarification, and preservation of dental evidence to support the justice process.
Design:
It entails identifying human remains through relating the dental evidence of deceased individuals (postmortem) with their antemortem dental records. Dental identification is crucial because teeth are unique, durable structures that can withstand most harsh environmental conditions. A thorough understanding, along with the latest advancements in dental imaging, molecular biology techniques, digital dentistry, and artificial intelligence has significantly advanced the practice of forensic dentistry. The role of a forensic dentist goes beyond mere identification, particularly when antemortem dental records are unavailable; as teeth serve as a significant tool for determining age, sex, and race. Furthermore, forensic dentistry assists legal authorities in identifying instances of malpractice, negligence, and cases of dental fraud.
Conclusions:
It is therefore the function of the current review article to highlight the fundamental principles, techniques, and modern advancements in forensic dentistry, and to emphasize their role in improving human identification and supporting the legal and justice systems.