Most of the time you think of dentists as professionals who protect and repair smiles, but there’s another branch of dentistry that is more like detective work. It’s called forensic dentistry. These dentists use their specialized skills to assist with investigations, such as identifying victims or analyzing crime evidence.

A person’s teeth are actually a bit similar to fingerprints. Everyone’s teeth markings are different. This is useful at the scene of a crime, allowing forensic dentists to analyze bite marks to provide evidence for solving a case. Additionally, these specialized dentists can note dental work or missing teeth that may be compared to dental records to help identify a body or to catch a criminal.

Forensic dentists also use dental x-rays, because x-ray images highlight the unique characteristics of a person’s teeth. Even just one tooth can help a forensic dentist identify someone who died in a natural disaster or an accident. Dentists also perform DNA testing on tissue from a tooth or mouth to help with identification.

This branch of dentistry employs forensic tools to help them complete tasks. An example is the scanning electron microscope, used to examine the surface of a tooth. If a tooth has been damaged during an attack, the scanner can detect microscopic injuries that provide clues about how the injury might have occurred. This can help police with their crime investigations.

Not every situation requires the help of forensic dentistry, but this type of dental science has proven to be valuable in many cases.

Family dentist in Toronto – Dr. Yolanda Cruz