The teaching of forensic dentistry: a status report

Area of Science:

• Forensic Dentistry
• Dental Education
• Curriculum Development

Background:

• Forensic dentistry instruction is crucial for training dental professionals in legal and investigative contexts.
• The current landscape of forensic dentistry education in the United States is not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current status of forensic dentistry instruction and curriculum in U.S. dental schools.
• To analyze faculty characteristics and their engagement with forensic science organizations.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to deans of 60 U.S. dental schools.
• The survey inquired about formal teaching programs in predoctoral, postgraduate, resident, and continuing education.

Main Results:

• 42% of surveyed schools offer no formal forensic dentistry courses.
• 58% offer primarily didactic courses, often managed by diagnostic dental science departments.
• Faculty possess diverse advanced degrees (medicine, law) but are underutilized in consulting.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in formal forensic dentistry education across U.S. dental schools.
• Recommendations are proposed for structuring a comprehensive forensic science curriculum.
• Enhancing faculty utilization in forensic consulting roles is advised.