Forensic dentistry, also called forensic odontology, is the application of dentistry within the criminal justice system. It is typically used to identify unknown victims or perpetrators, age estimation and so on. Here are some applications of forensic dental investigations.

Age Estimation Using Gustafson’s Technique - Gustafson's method for age determination from teeth is based on the evaluation of ground sections of teeth. Six age-associated parameters are evaluated in the ground section and are compared to a regression curve of age versus the age-associated changes. 

Age Estimation Using Dentinal Translucency - The amount of dentinal translucency is directly proportional to the age of the individual. This translucency can be measured in a ground section of the teeth. It is preferred to use a single rooted teeth.

Age Estimation Of Teeth Using Lamendin’s Technique - The level of periodontal ligament attachment level is not fixed. During the normal physiological processes of attrition, cementum deposition etc. there is recession of the epithelial attachment, which will correlate with age of the individual. In an extracted tooth, this level of recession can be seen as a yellowish area which is darker than the enamel and lighter than rest of the root. Dentinal translucency also increases with age due to continued deposition of sclerotic dentin. Measuring these two parameters would help us predict the age of the individual.

Age Estimation Using Demirjian’s Technique - Demirjian’s technique is a widely-used method to estimate the age of children and adolescents by assessing the developmental status of the teeth. We use the left mandibular permanent teeth from the central incisor to the third molar. Tooth development occurs in distinct stages. These stages can be ascertained easily on a radiograph and they show remarkable correlation with age. 

Rugoscopy - Rugae pattern is unique to every individual and each palatal rugae remain unchanged during the lifetime of an individual. The only change that occurs is the length, which halts at puberty. This unique feature of the rugae makes them an ideal parameter for forensic examination.

Gender Determination Using Mandibular Ramus Measurements - Sexual dimorphism in mandible is reflected in its shape and size. Measurements of coronoid height, projective height, condylar height and maximum breadth and minimum breadth of the ramus were studied in males and females. All parameters showed significant sexual dimorphism and the coronoid height was the single best parameter.

Bite Mark Analysis Using Overlays - Bite marks are caused by the teeth either alone or in combination with other mouth parts. Each individual has a unique dentition. The orientation and the structure of the teeth, occurrence of crowding or spacing patterns are specific to an individual and can be matched from samples of the bite to find the culprit. This makes bite mark analysis as useful as dermatoglyphics (finger print analysis) in solving crimes. 

Article by Dr. Siri P. B.