Legal Practices in Forensic Odontology in India: An Evidence-Based Review

Abstract

Forensic odontology – the application of dental science to legal investigations – has emerged as a vital yet underutilized discipline in India’s justice system. This article provides a comprehensive overview of forensic odontology and its legal relevance in India, examining the current legal framework, institutional guidelines, and key judicial precedents that govern its practice. We discuss representative case studies from Indian courts – involving human identification, bite mark analysis, and age estimation – where forensic dental evidence proved pivotal. Recent developments, including educational advancements and increased recognition of forensic odontology, are highlighted alongside persistent ethical and legal challenges facing practitioners. Key judicial rulings that have shaped the admissibility and weight of dental evidence in Indian courts are analyzed. Finally, we offer recommendations for strengthening the legal and institutional integration of forensic odontology into India’s justice system. The goal is to underscore the significance of forensic odontology in criminal and civil proceedings and to chart a path for its enhanced utilization, standardization, and recognition as a forensic specialty in India. However, emerging global scientific critiques—particularly regarding bite mark analysis—necessitate cautious interpretation and corroborative use of forensic odontological evidence within the Indian legal framework.