Chapter-2---Human-Osteology-and-Odontology_2014_Forensic-Anthropology

Forensic Anthropology

The application of anthropological methods and principles to legal and criminal investigations.

Human Osteology

The study of human bones, focusing on their structure, function, and development.

Odontology

The study of teeth, including their development, structure, and function.

Skeletal System

The framework of bones and cartilage that supports the body, serves as a point of attachment for muscles, and protects internal organs.

Collagen

A large protein molecule that comprises most of bone’s organic content, providing flexibility.

Hydroxyapatite

A mineral compound (Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2) that makes up the inorganic component of bone, giving it strength and rigidity.

Osteoblasts

Bone-forming cells that synthesize and deposit bone material, playing a role in bone growth.

Osteoclasts

Bone-resorbing cells that remove bone tissue, involved in the remodeling process.

Osteocytes

Mature bone cells that maintain bone tissue and reside within the bone matrix.

Haversian Canal

The central canal in an osteon containing blood vessels and nerves.

Volkmann’s Canal

Perpendicular canals that connect Haversian canals, allowing for passage of blood and nutrients.

Bone Remodeling

A process involving the removal and replacement of existing bone, essential for maintaining bone health.

Intramembranous Ossification

Development of bone directly from a connective tissue membrane, typically seen in the flat bones of the skull.

Endochondral Ossification

The process of bone development from a cartilage precursor, forming most of the skeleton.

Metaphysis

The growth plate area between the diaphysis and epiphysis of a long bone where growth occurs.

Cranial Skeleton

The part of the skeleton that comprises the bones of the skull.

Postcranial Skeleton

The part of the skeleton excluding the skull, including the axial and appendicular skeletons.

Dental Formula

A representation of the number and types of teeth in an organism’s mouth, typically in a quadrant format.

Deciduous Dentition

The first set of teeth in humans, known as baby teeth or milk teeth, which are replaced by permanent teeth.

Permanent Dentition

The second set of teeth that develop after the deciduous teeth and remain throughout adulthood.

Odonogenesis

The process of tooth development and mineralization.

Dental Agenesis

The absence or failure of development of teeth, often referring to third molars.