NCJ Number
223056
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 58 Issue: 3 Dated: May/June 2008 Pages: 342-354
Date Published
May 2008
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This study described eight cases of attempted identification of unknown persons using dental records.
Abstract
Findings indicate the need for dentists to compile and file dental records in private dental offices. In Italy, as in most other nations, it is not compulsory for dentists to record dental information or to keep clinical records of all patients; the existence or quality of the documentation depends on the individual dentist’s professional attitude and sense of responsibility. The value of dental records for identification purposes elevates the issue of reform from convenience to ethical necessity, and is illustrated by the eight cases of attempted identification of an unrecognizable cadaver described in this study. Despite the level of detail available on the teeth, it was not possible to make a certain ante- and postmortem comparison because of the poor reliability or absence of antemortem dental records. Because computerized procedures and digital radiography are more common in professional offices, and automatic storage facilities make it possible to perform and store a larger number of radiographs, there should be no reason why these records are not kept for identification purposes. A standardization of the schemas, diagrams, and nomenclature used would be desirable to prevent difficulties in interpreting the confused and incomplete data and the notes often encountered by forensic experts. Dental records should be filed on a standard form, reporting not only the treatment carried out, but also the dental formula, together with any other data that might assist in identification procedures. Computerized records would best ensure an objective ante- and postmortem comparison. References, photographs