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Advances in forensic odontology for human identification: a comprehensive review of methods, accuracy, and challenges

Riaz, Samiya (2026) Advances in forensic odontology for human identification: a comprehensive review of methods, accuracy, and challenges. IIUM Journal of Orofacial and Health Sciences, 7 (1). pp. 70-80. E-ISSN 2735-0584

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Abstract

Forensic odontology provides significant possibilities for human identification in the absence of DNA and fingerprints. Dental tissues, impervious to environmental damage, offer distinctive characteristics for sex estimation, age assessment, ancestry identification, and comparative analysis. This review rigorously integrates conventional and novel methodologies. Odontometric and non-metric characteristics are extensively utilized for sex estimation and ancestry assessment; however, accuracy differs among groups, and inter-observer variability continues to exist. Age estimate methodologies, including Demirjian, Willems, Nolla, AlQahtani, Kvaal, and Cameriere, have significant dependability in children and adolescents, although their accuracy diminishes in adults owing to wider error margins. Recent advancements, such as cone-beam computed tomography, three-dimensional imaging, and artificial intelligence, demonstrate potential for automated and reproducible assessments. Nonetheless, validation studies are scarce, established methodologies are absent, and legal admissibility is ambiguous. Comparative identification remains extremely reliable with antemortem and postmortem information, while diminishing dental restorations compromise distinctiveness. Forensic odontology is essential; yet, advancement necessitates the incorporation of digital technologies, population-specific criteria, and a heightened focus on validation and ethical-legal standards.

Item Type: Article (Review)
Uncontrolled Keywords: comparative identification, dental profiling, forensic, human identification, teeth
Subjects: R Medicine > RK Dentistry
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): Kulliyyah of Dentistry
Kulliyyah of Dentistry > Department of Fundamental Dental and Medical Sciences
Depositing User: Dr Samiya Riaz
Date Deposited: 02 Mar 2026 17:03
Last Modified: 02 Mar 2026 17:03
Queue Number: 2026-02-Q2391
URI: http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/127718

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