Forensic Odontology: Identification
from
Antemortem Dental Records
50 points possible
Review: Byers, pp. 397-408 (focus on
pp. 403-408)
Due: At the beginning of lab on Monday, 17 November 2003
Introduction:
Forensic Odontologists are often called upon to analyze and interpret human dental remains. One aspect of the analysis is to determine if a positive identification can be made for an unknown individual through the comparison of antemortem dental radiographs and dental records with postmortem dental radiographs. A forensic odontologist can reach any of the following conclusions: Positive, Possible, Negative/Excluded, and Unable to Determine.
Learning Objectives:
- To recognize the role of the forensic odontologist in the analysis of unidentified remains.
- To differentiate between different types of dental restorations and prosthetics.
- To accurately chart the dental remains of an unidentified individual on the Postmortem Dental Record.
- To accurately chart the dentition of a possible match from antemortem dental radiographs on the Antemortem Dental Record.
- To compare the postmortem and antemortem dental records and come to a conclusion regarding identification.
- To support your final conclusion by summarizing your findings.
Assignment:
Working in groups of 3 – 4 people, your assignment will be to conduct a postmortem dental analysis of three sets of dentition, compare the results of your analysis with three sets of antemortem bitewing radiographs, and provide a written summary of your identification conclusion (positive, possible, negative/excluded, unable to determine).
- Fill out a Postmortem Dental Record form as completely as possible for each skull in either Group 1 or Group 2. Note on the form the teeth present/absent, broken or fractured teeth, and the presence and location of any restorations and/or prosthetics (i.e., bridges, crowns). Add comments when necessary to clarify what you have observed.
- Fill out an Antemortem Dental Record form as completely as possible for each set of antemortem x-rays available for comparison. Note on the form the teeth present/absent, broken or fractured teeth, and the presence and location of any restorations and/or prosthetics (i.e., bridges, crowns). Add comments when necessary to clarify what you have observed.
- Compare the antemortem radiographs to the postmortem radiographs and remains in order to come to a conclusion regarding identification. Remember, you can conclude any of the following: Positive, Possible, Negative/Excluded, or Unable to Determine.
- Complete a Dental Identification Form for each individual. This form will provide space for you to summarize the basis of your conclusion for each case.
To Hand In:
- Each group will hand in three completed Antemortem Dental Record, Postmortem Dental Record, and Dental Identification Form forms.
- Each member of the group must fill out one Antemortem Dental Record, Postmortem Dental Record, and Dental Identification Form.
* A suggestion: While some members of the group are filling out the Postmortem form others can be working on the Antemortem form.