The falsification of an odontogram
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Abstract:
In March 1979, the putrified corpse of a naked female person, wrapped in plastic bags, was discovered in a mountainous region of Switzerland. Identification was difficult as the victim's husband had falsified the odontogram given to him by his wife's dentist for the use of the Swiss police. This exceptional case stands as proof that, if the dental expert receives information directly through close relatives of the victim, it is absolutely essential for him to know the treating dentist's name enabling him to obtain, if necessary, complementary information, such as X-ray pictures, detailed description of dental care provided, etc. as well as confirmation of what he had been told. In the above mentioned case, the falsification was finally discovered and the victim was identified by means of cross-checking on information as described.