Forensic Odontology Flashcards

Flashcards reviewing key terms and concepts from a Forensic Odontology lecture.

Forensic Odontology

The application of dental science to legal investigations, primarily involving the identification of human remains and bite mark analysis.

Webster Parkman case (1849)

The first documented case in which dental identification was used in court.

Basis for Dental Identification

The principle that no two sets of teeth are identical, providing a unique identifier for individuals.

Adult Dentition

Consists of 32 teeth, each with five surfaces, providing numerous points of comparison for identification.

Dental Anomalies

Unusual features of teeth that can aid in identification, such as chipped or fractured teeth, fillings, or root canals.

Enamel

The hardest, most durable part of the human body; 98% inorganic, making it resistant to decomposition.

Antemortem Dental Records

Dental records created before death, such as X-rays, photographs and dental charts, used for comparison with postmortem findings.

Antemortem x-ray

Most reliable form of dental identification.

Postmortem Dental Examination

The inspection and analysis of teeth and dental structures after death to assist in identification.

Dental Chart Comparisons

A method of comparing antemortem and postmortem dental records, though less reliable than X-rays or photographs.

DNA from Pulpal Material

Genetic material that can be extracted from the pulp of teeth, even years or centuries after death, for identification purposes.

Distinguishing Ante vs Post Mortem Teeth Removal

Antemortem removal results in socket filling with bony material. Postmortem removal results in open socket with sharp edges.

Age Determination Using Dentition

Estimating the age of an individual based on the development and wear of their teeth; most accurate up to age 13.

Bite Marks

Impressions left by teeth on a softer material, such as skin or food, which can be analyzed to provide clues about the perpetrator's dental profile.

Bite Mark Analysis Limitations

Bite marks do not provide an exact match, and there is no database of bite marks; dentition can also be altered.

Bite Mark Preservation

Proper documentation and collection of evidence, including photographs, DNA swabs, and 3D impressions, to ensure accurate analysis.