International co-operation in a dental identification

Area of Science:

• Forensic Odontology
• Medical Examiner
• Criminal Identification

Background:

• International unidentified deceased cases pose significant challenges to identification.
• Forensic odontology plays a critical role in establishing identity, particularly when other methods fail.
• Cross-border collaboration is essential for successful identification in cases involving multiple jurisdictions.

Observation:

• A case involving an unknown male required dental examination for identification.
• The procedure involved significant teamwork between Albanian and Swedish police, medical examiners, and a forensic odontologist.
• In Albania, a forensic medical examiner performed the dental examination due to the nascent stage of forensic odontology.

Findings:

• Teeth were the primary means of establishing the identity of the unknown male.
• The case underscored the importance of interdisciplinary and international cooperation in forensic investigations.
• The lack of established forensic odontology services in some regions necessitates training and resource allocation.

Implications:

• The case highlights the critical need for comprehensive dental and medical ante-mortem (before death) registers for missing persons globally.
• Establishing and maintaining such registers, in cooperation with police authorities, can significantly expedite identification processes.
• Promoting forensic odontology services worldwide is crucial for enhancing identification capabilities in complex cases.