The role of dentistry in forensic medicine: the process of human remains identification

The use of dentistry in forensic medicine has gradually become an indispensable tool in the process of identifying human remains. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the importance of this field in the identification of victims in mass disasters, criminal investigations, ethnic research, and the identification of decomposed and distorted bodies, such as drowning, fire and car accident victims. Dental examinations allow for precise determination of individual identities based on unique dental features. Various methods applied in forensic medicine in the realm of dentistry include dental impressions, radiographs, photographic examinations, rugoscopy, cheiloscopy, and molecular methods. Advanced dental analysis techniques make it possible to restore identities even in the most challenging cases. Equally important is the integration of knowledge and methods of forensic dentistry with other forensic disciplines such as molecular genetics and anthropology. Further research and development in this branch of science are crucial for improving investigative processes and ensuring the dignity of mass disaster victims. The aim of this work is to present methods using teeth for the identification of human remains along with the latest advancements in forensic DNA technology, which utilizes dental evidence to aid in the identification of human remains.