ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an overview of forensic odontology. The role of forensic odontology extends beyond contemporary events to the interpretation of ancient remains and therefore clearly has significance to archeological and cultural investigations as well. Forensic odontology has a vital role to play in identification for three main reasons. First, the teeth are durable in life and postmortem, often in extremely adverse conditions that have destroyed many other parts of the body. Second, the teeth are the only skeletal elements to have been visible and hence recorded in life by means of photographs or dental records in their various forms. Finally, there is a wide range of variability in the form of the teeth and the dental arches and paradental anatomy. The forensic odontologist is expert in the examination, documentation, and, when early treatment can be instigated, the healing of those with oro-facial injuries.
