Necessity for Establishing Forensic Odontology Protocols in Asian Countries

Abstract

Forensic odontology, also known as forensic dentistry, represents a crucial segment of forensic science that utilises dental expertise in legal investigations. It plays a significant role in human identification in scenarios involving criminal acts, mass casualties, and civil conflicts. By examining dental structures, including teeth, bite marks, restorations, and oral tissues, forensic odontologists aid in estimating age, assessing trauma, and identifying victims whose remains are decomposed, charred, or fragmented. The strength of dental tissues in tough conditions makes dental evidence highly reliable in forensic cases. Their ability to withstand damage or extreme environments ensures they remain useful for identification and analysis. This durability allows forensic odontologists to gather important clues even when other evidence has been compromised. Nevertheless, in Asian countries, the adoption of standardised protocols in forensic odontology is still lacking. This research underscores the present necessity for the establishment and implementation of standardised protocols of forensic odontology in Asian countries to guarantee the generation of accurate, consistent, and legally acceptable outcomes. These protocols ought to offer explicit instructions for the collection, documentation, preservation, and comparison of dental evidence, integrating innovations such as radiographic imaging and DNA analysis. Standardisation not only improves consistency and diminishes interpretative bias among examiners but also bolsters the scientific credibility of forensic dental evidence, especially in legal contexts. The paper examines various obstacles to the implementation of protocols in Asian countries, which include inadequate professional training, a lack of awareness among law enforcement agencies, insufficient infrastructure, and regulatory hurdles. To tackle these challenges, the paper suggests establishing specialised forensic odontology laboratories, developing national-level training and certification programs, and fostering collaboration among dental professionals, forensic scientists, law enforcement, and legal authorities. Additionally, it advocates for public awareness campaigns and the integration of modern digital technologies to bolster these initiatives. In conclusion, the development and execution of standardised forensic odontology protocols are essential for the progress of forensic science in Asian countries. These actions will enhance identification accuracy, especially in mass casualty situations, strengthen the reliability of dental evidence in judicial proceedings, and contribute to a more effective and equitable legal system.