title: Forensic dentistry.
abstract: Data and information derived from the teeth and oral structures have been used successfully where other methods of identification or determination of criminal responsibility have failed. In many instances, the techniques used in forensic dentistry bring evidence to a point of certitude that would otherwise be lacking. Teeth, by their formation and structure and their relative permanence, record and retain the history of their development and the history of the incidents to which they have been subjected. Generally, the characteristics of formation and structure of teeth contribute information pertinent to probabilities of relationships and probabilities of events. As a result, these characteristics are highly useful in affirming or negating evidence as circumstantial or as factual.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003817:Dentition / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D003878:Dermatoglyphics; D005104:Expert Testimony; D005553:Forensic Dentistry / Q000379:methods; D005826:Genetics, Medical; D006801:Humans; D011336:Probability; D014070:Tooth / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D014481:United States