Forensic dentistry. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of domestic violence: a guide for dentists

Non-accidental trauma (NAT) is a leading cause of death and injury in America. Women and elderly persons are much more likely to be injured by a family member or by someone known to them than by any other individual. This aggressive, violent behavior directed against an individual within the home or family has been defined as "domestic violence." Intrafamily violence effects one in two American families and occurs in all segments of society. Studies have shown that unless intervention occurs, the violence tends to escalate often resulting in serious injury or death. Because greater than half of all domestic violence injuries occur in the head and neck area, the dentist is often the first to treat the domestic violence victim. Each member of the dental team must be a participant in the early recognition of domestic violence and other forms of non-accidental trauma. Intervention can only begin after the victim is recognized. While acknowledging the important role of the forensic odontologist in the diagnosis and documentation of intentionally inflicted injuries, the general dentist and the dental team play an equally important role in stopping domestic violence.