Forensic Odontology Overview

The process of identifying an individual by comparing their dental records with records of missing persons.

The level of certainty in the identification of an individual based on dental records.

The level of certainty in identification when there is less evidence available and some information may be missing.

An identification based on dental evidence that is inconsistent with other data and cannot be used to definitively identify the individual.

Marks left by human teeth on an object or tissue.

The use of dental records to determine the age of an individual.

The use of dental records to determine the sex of an individual.

Analyzing bite marks left on food or human tissue to potentially identify a suspect.

A walking pattern where the feet are lifted high and then dropped abruptly, often seen in conditions affecting balance and coordination.

A swaying and unsteady gait, similar to someone intoxicated, often linked to cerebellar problems affecting balance.

A gait caused by knock-knees, making the legs appear to move like a cow's.

A gait with feet wide apart and short steps, with minimal knee and foot bending, often seen in muscle weakness or neurological conditions.

A stiff and robotic gait with short steps and minimal bending of the knees and feet, often caused by muscle spasticity.

Teeth are unique to each individual, making them valuable for identification.

Teeth are relatively resistant to decomposition and fire, making them useful even after death.

Dental records compare the deceased's teeth with previous records for identification.

Lack of dental records, poor record quality, or incomplete remains can hinder identification.

The way a person walks, which can be unique and altered by injury or intent.

Identification of a person based on eyewitness accounts of their physical features, which can be unreliable.

The identification of missing persons using fingerprints is more reliable than dental records.