Forensic Odontology Essay

Forensic Odontology or dentistry has been a very useful tool when it comes to identifying an unknown body. It has been used throughout history to give those thought lost back their identity and the families closure. To become a forensic odontologist one must first earn a DDS degree, then gain training in the field. Odontology can be done on the spot at a crime scene or at the autopsy. Bite mark analysis has made a huge impact in the incarceration of a criminal.

Forensic Odontologist must earn a Doctor of Dental Science (DDS) degree to become a dentist. More extensive training is required in the techniques and methods of forensic odontology, along with hands-on experience, often by observing a more senior professional. To become board certified

They are involved in aiding investigative agencies to identify recovered human remains in addition to the identification of whole or fragmented bodies. Forensic dentist may also be asked to assist in determining race, age, occupation, and previous dental history of unidentified human beings. They are responsible for six main areas of practice: identification of mass fatalities, identification of found human remains, civil cases involving malpractice, assessment of bite mark injuries, age estimation and assessment of cases of

There are four for the field of forensic odontology, the Bureau of Legal Dentistry (BOLD), American Society of Forensic Odontology (ASFO), American Board of Forensic Odontology (ABFO) and the International Organization for Forensic Odonto-Stomatology (IOFOS). The American Board of Forensic Odontology (ABFO) created methodology guidelines, in attempts to reduce the discrepancies and increase the validity of bite mark analysis. They also provide information on how to best collect and preserve evidence, this is so that potentially useful evidence won’t be thrown out just because the forensic odontologist’s collection methods weren’t