Forensic odontology stands at the forefront of modern forensic science, offering unique insights into human identification and criminal investigations. In India, where diverse populations and complex legal systems intersect, the role of forensic odontology is increasingly crucial in both civil and criminal sectors. This review of solved cases published in literature explores the implications of forensic odontology in India's civil and criminal sectors, focusing on advancements, challenges and prospects. This review adopts a comprehensive approach integrating literature review on case studies and expert interviews. Information is gathered through the literature analysis of recent advancements in forensic odontology techniques and their application in India. The field of forensic odontology is experiencing rapid advancements in India, with many innovative techniques revolutionizing the field. These advancements have profound implications for both civil and criminal sectors like dental identification, personal injury claims, mass disaster victim identification, bite mark analysis, dental profiling, and identification of human remains. As advancements continue to evolve, forensic odontology is poised to play an increasingly significant role in human identification, legal proceedings, and justice administration. This review addresses the challenges such as standardization, training, and collaboration which are essential for fully harnessing the benefits of forensic odontology in our country. Future research may be focused on developing comprehensive frameworks and interdisciplinary approaches to enhance the integration of forensic odontology into civil and criminal investigations, ultimately contributing to the advancement of forensic science and the pursuit of justice in India.

1. EMERGING
FRONTIERS OF
FORENSIC
ODONTOLOGY
Implications for Civil & Criminal Sectors in India

2. WHY TEETH?
Teeth is made of enamel, hardest tissue of
the body, which can withstand trauma
(decomposition, heat degradation, water
immersion, and desiccation) better than other
tissues in body.
Teeth are a source of DNA: dental pulp or a
crushed tooth can provide nuclear or
mitochondrial DNA that to help identify a
person.

3. INTRODUCTION
The emergence of new frontiers in
forensic odontology presents profound
implications for both the civil and criminal
sectors in India. With advancements in
technology and methodology, this
interdisciplinary field offers innovative
solutions for identification, investigation,
and justice, addressing the evolving
challenges faced by law enforcement and
legal systems.

4. CRIMINAL SECTOR
From analysing bite marks to comparing dental
records, it offers a range of techniques that
contribute to the collection of evidence,
determination of identities, and pursuit of
justice within the criminal justice system.

5. BITE MARKS
IMPRESSIONS FROM TEETH FOUND ON SKIN OR ITEMS LEFT AT A
SCENE. USUALLY OUTLINE TEETH PLACEMENT.
WHERE ARE BITE MARKS FOUND?
Impressions left on food, skin or
other items left at a scene.
Porous surfaces that absorb the
impact enough to make an
impression.

6. THE ANALYSIS
Bite marks can provide valuable evidence in
cases of assault, child abuse, sexual assault,
and other violent crimes.
They use their expertise to determine the size,
shape, and orientation of the biter's dentition,
aiding in suspect identification and legal
proceedings.

7. RECONSTRUCTION OF FACIAL
FEATURES
Forensic odontology utilises dental
records and craniofacial anatomy to aid
in the reconstruction of facial features
for identification.
Through analysis of teeth and skull
morphology, forensic odontologists
contribute to accurate facial
reconstructions in criminal investigations.

8. COMPUTER
ODONTOLOGY
3D Bite mark analysis:
3D scans of dental casts are used to
generate overlays using various pressure
and deviation.
OdontoSearch:
To compare a data base of missing people
felons, government workers

9. CIVIL SECTOR
Forensic odontology in the civil
sector involves applying dental
expertise to assist law
enforcement in identifying
individuals, determining causes of
death, and providing evidence for
legal proceedings.

10. HUMAN REMAINS
This method is particularly valuable when other forms of identification,
such as fingerprints or DNA, are unavailable or inconclusive.
Forensic odontologists compare ante-mortem dental records with
post-mortem dental characteristics to establish positive identifications.

11. METHODS USED
Dental radiographic examination: X-rays of
dental structures help in identifying unique
features such as fillings, root canal treatments,
and dental anomalies.
Dental DNA analysis: Teeth provide a rich
source of DNA, which can be extracted and
compared to DNA samples from relatives for
confirmation of identity.

12. DISASTER VICTIM
IDENTIFICATION
Disaster Victim Identification is a crucial process
employed in mass casualty incidents such as
natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and aviation
accidents.
It’s primary objective is to accurately identify
victims to facilitate their repatriation to families
and loved ones, provide closure, and aid in legal
and administrative procedures.

13. CHALLENGES
Mass disasters often present logistical
challenges, including the fragmentation,
commingling, or decomposition of remains.
Limited access to dental records, lack of
standardisation in record-keeping, and the
need for rapid identifications further
complicate the DVI process.

14. AWARENESS
Forensic odontology's role in civil matters, such as disaster victim
identification and bite mark analysis, is often overlooked.
Educating law enforcement agencies, legal professionals, and the
general public about the applications and benefits of forensic
odontology.
Promoting collaboration between forensic odontologists and
other forensic specialists to enhance civil sector investigations.

15. CONCLUSION
The emerging frontiers of forensic odontology in India
present promising implications for both civil and
criminal sectors. Through advancements in technology,
interdisciplinary collaborations, and increased
awareness, forensic odontology stands poised to
enhance the accuracy of identifications, facilitate
justice, and contribute significantly to the Indian legal
landscape.

16. Presented by Arka Sen & Animesh Rath
Guided by Dr. Harish Kumar
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