Innovation in Dental Conservation and Their Impact on Forensic Odontology

Abstract

Innovations in dental conservation are increasingly integral to advancements in forensic odontology. Integrating digital technologies, such as intraoral scanning, CAD/CAM, and 3D printing, has enhanced the precision and efficiency of dental record creation. These tools streamline restorative dental practices and play a crucial role in forensic Identification, where accurate dental matching is essential for person identification. Additionally, dental identification systems, including microchips and identification tags on prosthetics, are being implemented to aid in mass disaster victim identification. Techniques like virtual dental autopsy (VIRDENTOPSY) offer reliable remote examination capabilities, making them invaluable in emergencies. This paper explores various innovations in dental conservation and their impact on forensic odontology, emphasizing accuracy, speed, and ethical benefits for human identification processes.