Forensic Anthropology & Odontology

Post by **Buela_Vigneswaran** » Wed Jan 29, 2025 9:56 am

Forensic Anthropology & Odontology

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Forensic anthropology and odontology involve the identification of human remains through the study of bones and dental records. These fields play a crucial role in cases involving mass disasters, homicides, missing persons, and unidentified bodies.

1. Identification of Skeletal Remains

Forensic anthropologists analyze bones to determine identity, cause of death, and post-mortem changes.
They examine skeletal features to estimate age, sex, ancestry, and stature of the deceased.
Bone trauma analysis helps distinguish between injuries caused before or after death.

2. Facial Reconstruction Techniques

Used when a skull is found without soft tissue.
3D facial reconstruction uses clay or digital modeling to estimate a person's appearance.
Helps in identifying victims when other records are unavailable.

3. Dental Records in Identification (Forensic Odontology)

Teeth are highly durable and remain intact even in extreme conditions (fires, decomposition).
Dental charts, X-rays, and bite marks are compared to known records for identification.
Bite Mark Analysis – Used in criminal cases where a suspect has bitten the victim or object at a crime scene.

4. Estimation of Age, Sex, and Stature from Bones

Pelvis and Skull – Used to determine sex (male/female differences in shape and structure).
Teeth and Long Bones – Help estimate age, especially in children and adolescents.
Femur, Tibia, and Humerus – Used to estimate a person's height.

Forensic anthropology and odontology are invaluable in identifying unknown remains and solving criminal cases.