The Journal
Bite Marks :
Bite marks can be defined as any mark made by human or animal teeth in the the skin of alive people , cadavers or unanimated objects with
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relatively softened consistency . Bite mark analysis in a forensic investigation can elucidate the kind of violence and the elapsed time between its production and the examination . Prosthodontists are well versed in the properties of different impression materials applied in different situations and hence the specialist can aid in the construction of an accurate replica .
Conclusion
The unique nature of our dental anatomy and the placement of custom restorations ensure accuracy when the techniques are correctly employed . Forensic dentistry plays a major role in identification of those individuals who are not identified visually or by other means . Denture marking or labeling has been urged by forensic dentists internationally for many years . The supervising authority on the health sector should make denture marking mandatory by a prosthodontists .
Palatal Rugoscopy :
The rugae pattern is considered unique to an individual and can be used as reliable method in postmortem cases . The anatomical position of the rugae inside the mouth surrounded by cheeks , lips , tongue , buccal pad of fat , teeth , and bone keeps them well protected from trauma and high temperatures . Thus , they can be used reliably as a reference landmark during forensic identification . Palatal rugae have been equated with fingers and are unique to an individual . It can be of special interest in edentulous cases and also in certain conditions where finger prints cannot be taken , such as burnt bodies or where bodies have undergone severe decomposition . By the identification of the rugal pattern a prosthodontist may identify
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Fig 2
10 35 Vol . 12 No . 23 May-August Sept-Dec 2016