Q: What is ODONTOLOGY?
A: Forensic dentistry (odontology) is a vital branch of forensic science that involves that application of dental science to the identification of unknown human remains and bite marks, using both physical and biological dental evidence.
Q: What is FORENSIC DENTISTRY?
A:
1. The application of dentistry to legal problems, as in using the teeth for identifying the dead.
2. The law as it applies to the practice of dentistry. Also called legal dentistry
Q: What is your educational lecture schedule?
A: Click here for our upcoming educational lecure schedule
Q: Where do I begin if I am interested in Forensic Odontology education & training?
A: Click here for education and training info
Q: Where do I begin if I am interested in a Forensic Odontology career?
A: Click here for career info
Q: What is BITE MARK IDENTIFICATION?
A: Because of legal, moral and ethical considerations, any death investigation must begin with the identification of the deceased. The identification of unidentifiable human remains through dental records is a long-standing and proven forensic technique. All human identification is based on the fact that each human is considered to be unique. Dental identification appears to be one of the better methods for identifying badly burned, decomposed, skeletonized or macerated bodies. The teeth and restorative materials are relatively nonperishable, lending themselves for being compared to antemortem treatment records.
Q: What is BITE MARK ANALYSIS?
A: Bite marks in crimes against persons are patterned injuries produced by the teeth which can be extremely helpful in identifying the biter. The premise that the human dentition is unique to each individual is widely accepted. The function of the forensic odontologist is to attempt to collect, preserve and analyze the bite mark evidence. If properly preserved and protected, bite marks can provide an important link between the victim and assailant. It can be a critical aspect of the criminal investigation since a positive identification can establish that a suspect was at the crime scene and in violent contact with the victim.
Q: What is AGE ESTIMATION?
A: The determination of a living or deceased individual’s age from dental structures.
Q: What is DENTAL EVIDENCE COLLECTION?
A: The preservation of dental evidence such as a bitemark. Every aspect of the bitemark (size, color, morphology, three dimensional contour, texture and consistency) must be collected using a variety of methods. This can be accomplished by the use of photography and dental impressions of the suspected bitemark. Trace evidence by DNA swabbing can also be collected on the unwashed wound area.
Q: What is COLD CASE REVIEW?
A: The review of legal cases no longer active when dental evidence is present. This review may aid law enforcement in solving an otherwise dormant case.
Q: What is EXPERT WITNESS TESTIMONY?
A: The participation by the forensic odontologist in the legal justice system carries multiple responsibilities. Paramount is the duty to offer competent opinion which meets both the standards of judicial review and the standards of care in dentistry. The forensic odontologist's fundamental role in the judicial system is to assist the trier of fact in his search for truth. This function is primarily accomplished by education of the judge and/or jury in areas of knowledge not normally possessed by the trier of fact. It is the expert's responsibility to give an impartial opinion independent of interests held by their employers.
Q: What is an EXPERT WITTNESS REFERRAL?
A: Referrals to other qualified forensic odontologist are available upon request. We have an extensive network of colleagues through out the United States willing to consult on civil and criminal cases where dental evidence is present.
