Forensic Dentists at the Frontline: Scene Examination & Mock Drill Training in DVI

Abstract

Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) is a structured forensic process essential for recognizing individuals affected by mass fatality incidents. Among its phases, Phase 1: Scene Examination and Body Recovery is critical, as it involves preserving forensic evidence, assessing environmental factors, and establishing the context of the event. Forensic odontologists play a pivotal role in this phase by ensuring proper documentation of dental evidence, preventing contamination, and facilitating accurate retrieval of postmortem dental records.
Remains found at disaster sites may vary from fragmentary, scorched, to decayed, presenting significant challenges for forensic teams. Difficulties arise in cases where remnants get mixed up, making it difficult to document and analyze the calamity site. Forensic pathologists, odontologists, and other forensic experts work collectively to overcome these obstacles and ensure accurate victim identification. However, due to the considerable mutilation and modification in dentition during disasters, there is a vital need for active planning and preparedness, as recommended by the International Organization for Forensic Odonto-Stomatology (IOFOS).
This paper explores the specific responsibilities of forensic dentists in Phase 1, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence integrity. Additionally, it highlights the necessity of mock drill training sessions for forensic odontologists, which enhance preparedness, improve response times, and ensure systematic management of dental evidence in real-world disaster scenarios. Integrating structured DVI training into forensic odontology curricula can significantly enhance identification procedures, contributing to a more streamlined and effective disaster response system.