What is the main objective of forensic odontology?

The main objective of forensic odontology is to identify individuals through dental records and bite mark analysis. Forensic odontologists utilize the unique characteristics of human teeth and jaws, which serve as a valuable means of identification in both living and deceased individuals. Each person's dental structure is distinct, including the arrangement, shape, and wear patterns of their teeth. This uniqueness allows odontologists to match dental records of missing persons or victims with collected dental evidence.

Additionally, bite mark analysis can assist in connecting a suspect to a crime scene when bite marks are found on victims or objects. In cases where identification is difficult, such as in mass disasters or when a body is unrecognizable, dental records can be crucial for providing a definitive identification. Thus, forensic odontology plays a significant role in criminal investigations and legal proceedings, emphasizing its focus on identification rather than broader psychological profiling, video enhancement, or blood spatter analysis.