Barcoding in Orthodontic Appliances: An Application-based Perspective in Forensic Odontology

Abstract

Background: Barcoding has been used in prosthodon????c dentures for identification since time immemorial. However, its incorporation in orthodontic appliances is yet to be done. The current study aims to assess the potential of barcoding in orthodontics for removable appliances. Aim: To study if barcodes can be incorporated in various orthodontic appliances, making them an efficient tool in forensics. Methodology: With prior patient consent, 5 study models of different categories of Removable Orthodontic appliances (Hawley’s appliance, Hawley’s with tongue crib, Twin block, Translingual arch, Nance appliance ) were included in the study. These models were incorporated with the barcodes containing patient’s data. The code decoder-enabled scanner was used to decipher patient records from incorporated barcodes. Results and Conclusion: Barcoding removable orthodontic appliances can be extremely valuable when establishing a person’s identity, particularly in the context of forensic odontology. Barcoding technology has the potential to revolutionize forensic odontology by providing a more accurate and efficient way to identify human remains. To guarantee that dentists and dental students are exposed to marking procedures for removable orthodontic appliances, a suitable framework for dental education is necessary