Forensic Odontology: The Expanding Role of Oral Pathologists in Legal Investigations

Abstract

Forensic odontology is a multidisciplinary field that intersects dentistry, pathology, and law to aid in legal investigations. Oral pathologists, with their expertise in oral tissues, histopathology, and disease diagnosis, are becoming increasingly vital in forensic odontology. Their contributions include human identification, age estimation, bite mark analysis, and trauma assessment. Additionally, legal recognition of forensic odontology as a specialized branch of dentistry is essential in ensuring standardized expertise and ethical forensic practice. This article explores the expanding role of oral pathologists in forensic odontology, highlights relevant legal precedents proving that dentistry is an integral part of medicine, and advocates for the formal recognition of forensic odontology as a distinct specialty.