Forensic Odontology is a relatively new science that utilizes the dentist’s knowledge to serve the judicial system. It has established itself as an important indispensable science in medicolegal matters and in particular in identification of the dead. Worldwide, dentists qualified in forensic science are giving expert opinion in cases related to human identification, bite mark analysis, craniofacial trauma and malpractice. Dental professionals have a major role to play in keeping accurate dental records and providing all necessary information so that legal authorities may recognize malpractice, negligence, fraud or abuse, and identify unknown humans. This article presents a literature review referring to the understanding the various methods employed in forensic odontology.

Keywords: Forensic odontology; Dental identification; Bite marks; Cheiloscopy; Rugoscopy.