Awareness of forensic odontology among legal professionals: An institutional study

Abstract

Forensic odontology deals with victim identification and providing evidence in criminal cases by analyzing the dentition of deceased. Human dentition remains a vital tool for identification of the deceased individual. Forensic odontology has evolved as a new ray of hope but, this vital and integral field of forensic medicine is still in a state of infancy in India. Hence, the aim of this survey is to find the level of awareness and value of forensic odontology among the legal professionals. Questionnaire was conducted among the legal professionals in private institution in Chennai which comprised of 14 questions related to knowledge in forensic odontology, application of its technique, law pertaining to dentistry and in handling of forensic cases in their practice. From the present study, it is evident that there was lack of awareness on forensic odontology among legal professionals which reflects the current situation of our country.