4.3 KiB
| title | chunk | source | category | tags | date_saved | instance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forensic dentistry | 7/7 | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forensic_dentistry | reference | science, encyclopedia | 2026-05-05T09:19:59.890392+00:00 | kb-cron |
Direct comparison of the characteristics presents in the ante-mortem photograph with the observed characteristics in the deceased person. In this technique, the ante-mortem and post-mortem photographs must be paired, and the dental characteristics found should be compared, described, and noted. Computerized outlining of the incisal edges of the teeth in the ante-mortem and post-mortem photographs. In this technique, the expert analyzes the morphology of the smile line, delineating the incisal edges and comparing them. To achieve this, attention must be given to important details, such as:
Both the ante-mortem and post-mortem photographs need to be as clear as possible, with good/excellent quality. The post-mortem photograph should be taken at the same angle of incidence as the ante-mortem photograph. The more visible teeth in the ante-mortem photograph, the better. Therefore, selecting the best photograph obtained is important. The use of software to annotate the characteristics present in the ante-mortem and post-mortem photographs, facilitating the visualization of comparative elements for everyone, including laypeople. It is important to emphasize that each person's smile is unique, just like fingerprints, palatal rugae, and DNA. Therefore, when properly applied with the necessary scientific rigor, identification through photographs of the smile becomes a reliable method to establish an identification.
=== Palatal rugoscopy comparison === This method of identification involves the analysis and comparison of palatal rugae from the deceased with the palatal rugae of the potential victim. One way to perform this comparison is by creating a mold of the upper arch of the deceased (capturing the palatal rugae) or using a complete upper denture that belonged to the deceased, or on a plaster model for dental purposes, and in an object containing the palatal rugae of the missing person during their lifetime (such as an old complete upper denture in possession of the family). Once the two plaster models are created, they should be scanned/photographed, and a computerized delineation of the palatal rugae should be performed, analyzing each individual ruga and comparing their location, shape, and pattern in each of the photos (of the models). If there is a match, the victim can be identified. It is important to note that the use of dentures for this identification can be done if the palatal rugae are clearly visible. The impression of palatal rugae in dental prostheses is formed over several years of use by the individual. This method has a significant impact on the identification process, particularly when other methodologies and identification techniques cannot be implemented. Based on quantity, length and shape, Thomas et al. categorized palatal rugae patterns. Based on length, there is primary rugae (5-10mm), secondary rugae (3-5mm) and fragmentary rugae (less than 3mm). Based on shape, there is straight (travels straight from the start to finish), curvy (a straightforward crescent with a slight curvature), circular (a distinct, continuous ring shape), and lastly wavy (serpentine like).
== See also == American Society of Forensic Odontology Hair analysis Innocence Project Comparative dental analysis Dental analysis in archaeology
== References ==
== Further reading ==
== External links == The American Board of Forensic Odontology – a certifying body for North American and other forensic odontologists The American Society of Forensic Odontology – a society for all persons interested in forensic odontology The Australian Society of Forensic Odontology The British Association for Forensic Odontology The Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP) – a military sponsored venue for education in forensic odontology (annual courses) Forensic dentistry online Archived 2019-09-29 at the Wayback Machine Structure Magazine no. 40, "RepliSet: High Resolution Impressions of the Teeth of Human Ancestors" by Debbie Guatelli-Steinberg and John C. Mitchell Dunning B (1 March 2022). "Skeptoid #821: Forensic (Pseudo) Science". Skeptoid. Retrieved 15 May 2022. Forensic Oral Pathology Journal – FOPJ