How are dead people identified by dental records?

There are several methods for using dentistry to identify a person: A forensic dentist can extract DNA from the pulp chamber to crossmatch and identify a victim. Investigators can examine dental records to match them to a corpse, or to match a bite mark to a perpetrator.

Why would a body have to be identified by dental records?

When someone dies in a fire or explosion, dental records or DNA may have to be used for identification. Martin saw his wife’s body seconds after the fatal accident in which a bus ran her over on a pavement.

How do forensic odontologist identify a victim?

Forensic odontology is the application of dental science to legal investigations, primarily involving the identification of the offender by comparing dental records to a bite mark left on the victim or at the scene, or identification of human remains based on dental records.

What is examined when comparing dental records?

There are three categories examined when comparing dental records (ante-mortem with post-mortem) for identification, which are the teeth, periodontal tissue, and anatomical features.

What are dental records?

The dental record, also referred to as the patient’s chart, is the official office document that records all of the treatment done and all patient-related communications that occur in the dental office.

What is included in dental records?

A dental record refers to all the information that is related to the provision of dental care services, including patient records, business records include billing, claims forms, laboratory charges, scheduling etc., and drug records.

Is there a dental record database?

There is no national database of dental records that is searchable by dental charting . However there is a national database that does contain dental records on missing persons. Fingerprints are always our fastest means of identification, with dental being the second – assuming the dental office was open.

How can you identify a body without dental records?

Most unidentified bodies are identified by fingerprints, if the fingerprints are still intact. When they aren’t, examiners turn to dental records.

Can a forensic odontologist tell you exactly how old someone is?

With such a profile a forensic odontologist can identify and report indicators for age at time of death, race and sex. Forensic odontologists can usually determine the sex, race and age (at the time of death) from careful study of the teeth, their anatomical arrangement and the skull’s osteological features.

How does forensic odontology solve crimes?

Forensic odontology is a branch of forensic science. It uses scientific methods as they relate to the teeth and jaw to identify unknown deceased individuals. Because teeth are so strong, odontologists can use them to identify the deceased even when the body has been destroyed.