Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 19, 2026
Author Spotlight: 3D Movement Assessment of Maxillary Posterior Teeth in Clear Aligner Treatment
Published on: February 23, 2024
Comparison of Palatal Rugae on Dental Prosthesis and Its Significance in Forensic Odontology a Research Study
V S Deepasri1, N Naga Madhuri2, Chandan Sourabh3
1Department of Prosthodontics, Maruthi Multi Speciality Dental Care, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Background:
Palatal rugae are unique anatomical landmarks that remain stable over time, making them a valuable tool in forensic odontology. However, the impact of prosthetic rehabilitation, particularly complete dentures and dental implants, on rugae morphology remains a subject of study. This research aims to compare palatal rugae patterns in dentate individuals, denture wearers, and implant users to assess their significance in forensic identification.
Methods:
A comparative study was conducted on 60 individuals divided into three groups: dentate individuals, complete denture wearers, and implant users. Rugae patterns were analyzed using digital scanning, and statistical comparisons were made.
Results:
Significant alterations in rugae morphology were observed in denture users (P = 0.02), whereas implant users demonstrated better preservation of rugae (P = 0.04).
Conclusion:
Palatal rugae remain a reliable forensic marker in implant users, but complete dentures may alter identification accuracy.
