DEVELOPMENTS AND APPLICATIONS IN THE FIELD OF FORENSIC ODONTOLOGY IN DISASTER VICTIM IDENTIFICATION

Abstract

Applying dental expertise to legal investigations including human identity, bite mark analysis, and age calculation, forensic odontology is an essential subfield of forensic science. Recent developments, particularly in the areas of digital radiography, 3D imaging, artificial intelligence integration, and better DNA analysis from dental tissues, have greatly increased its accuracy and application. New forensic capabilities are also provided by enhanced facial reconstruction methods and saliva analysis. Rapid and more accurate victim identification in criminal cases, mass disasters, and human rights investigations is made possible by the standardization of techniques and the growing sophistication of software for comparing dental records. The field of forensic odontology is becoming more and more prevalent in medico-legal contexts due to advancements in biometry and data management. This essay highlights the significance of maintaining dental records and interdisciplinary cooperation while reviewing the most recent technology developments and their consequences for forensic investigations.