Abstract

Forensic odontology plays an important role in human identification, especially in cases involving decomposed, burned, or mutilated bodies where conventional methods such as fingerprinting are not possible. Teeth are highly durable and resist physical, chemical, and thermal damage, making them reliable forensic tools. Endodontics contributes significantly through the evaluation of secondary dentin deposition, root canal morphology, pulp chamber dimensions, and endodontic treatment characteristics, which are unique to each individual. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has improved forensic dental analysis by providing accurate three-dimensional imaging of dental structures. It allows detailed assessment of pulp chamber size, root canal anatomy, calcifications, restorations, obturation patterns, missed canals, and separated instruments that serve as forensic identifiers. Secondary dentin deposition is valuable for age estimation due to the reduction in pulp chamber volume with age, while variations incanalmorphologyandtreatmentpatternsassistinpersonalidentificationthrough radiographic comparison. This review highlights the forensic importance of CBCT in evaluating secondary dentin, root canal anatomy, and endodontic treatment characteristics, emphasizing its growing role in modern forensic odontology.

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