Dental Identification Through Endodontic Radiographic Records: a Case Report.
Author(s): Silva RF, Franco A, Picoli FF, Nunes FG, Estrela C
Key words: Dental radiographs; Endodontics; Forensic odontology; Human identification; Morphology
The present study aims to report a case of successful human identification based on the comparison of ante-mortem and post-mortem records of endodontic treatment. Based on these, the legal value of storing and updating clinical records is highlighted throughout the text.
CASE REPORT:
An unknown body was recovered from a traffic accident site. Forensic examination was conducted in order to establish the identity of the victim. Based on the absence of ante-mortem fingerprint registration in the national database, the search for AM data was performed using periapical radiographic records from private dental clinics. A positive dental identification was achieved analyzing evidence of endodontic treatment.
CONCLUSION:
Dental radiographs play a valuable role as legal tools supporting the criminal demands on the daily forensic practice. Specifically in endodontics, periapical radiographs are essential for a proper treatment. In forensics, these radiographs represent a solid source of ante-mortem data for human identifications.
