Dental and Medical Records Identification

These flashcards cover key concepts related to identification through dental and medical records, including definitions and legal implications.

What is positive identification in the context of forensic odontology?

Identification exclusive to the individual, better than probable and tentative, also includes DNA.

What does familial match refer to in DNA analysis?

Taking DNA from a victim and comparing it to a family member's DNA.

How is positive identification established using dental records?

By matching teeth with antemortem dental records such as radiographs.

What influences the matching process of dental records?

Technology and the availability of digital files.

What is the chance of dental restorations looking the same between individuals?

There is a 1% chance of restorations, such as fillings, looking the same.

Why is establishing identification important in a legal context?

It is necessary to legally declare someone deceased and to access life insurance and inheritance.

What is the significance of a death certificate?

It is essential for legal purposes and cannot access life insurance or inheritances without it.

What does the term 'John Doe' signify?

An unidentified male, based on an early legal system where plaintiffs are anonymized.

What are the three levels of identification?

1. Tentative/presumptive (least precise), 2. Positive, 3. Definitive.

What examples denote tentative or presumptive identification?

Items such as an apartment key, wallet with IDs, or jewelry with names.