Forensic Identification of Charred Human Remains Using Dental Remnants: A Review of Methods and Temperature Ranges (400-800°C)

Editor's note: This article was published in GAP iNTERDISCIPLINARITIES (GAP Journals) without the author's consent.

Authors

  • Alina Prem MSc Forensic Science student, Department of Forensic Science, Garden City University, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
  • Aiswarya Satheesh MSc Forensic Science student, Department of Forensic Science, Garden City University, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
  • Devananda K P MSc Forensic Science student, Department of Forensic Science, Garden City University, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
  • Kajal Bansal Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Science, Garden City University.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37506/vyz8zf84

Keywords:

charred remains, dental records, forensic odontology, restorations, dental implants

Abstract

Establishing the identity of a person is important in the field of forensic odontology. This field can be helpful in identifying charred corpses in cases involving intense heat. Bones and body tissues can be extremely damaged due to heat, in such cases dental records have become a reliable source of identification. Dental Identification of charred human remains begins with the examination of dental features such as teeth anatomy, morphology, dental implants, oral health, restorations, fillings, dental anomalies and overall dental structure. These features remain resistant to extreme heat and c­an thus be compared with that of the ante-mortem records. When the postmortem and ante-mortem records match a successful identification is done. Dental features may also be damaged and become less effective for identification when temperatures rise above a particular range. In order to help with the identification of charred human remains, this research intends to give forensic experts a clear understanding of the circumstances in which dental records can be used by examining the effects of extreme temperature within the 400–800°C range. By gaining insights into this particular range and its effects on dental tissues and records gives forensic experts a chance to solve complex cases involving burned corpses.

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Published

2024-08-02

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Section

Review Article

How to Cite

Forensic Identification of Charred Human Remains Using Dental Remnants: A Review of Methods and Temperature Ranges (400-800°C): Editor’s note: This article was published in GAP iNTERDISCIPLINARITIES (GAP Journals) without the author’s consent. (2024). Medico Legal Update, 24(3), 1-7. https://doi.org/10.37506/vyz8zf84