A licensed dentist who specializes in forensic dentistry is known as an odontologist. He or she frequently collaborates with law enforcement officers and forensic science lab technicians to assist in the identification of bodies and the arrest of criminals. An odontologist will often conduct thorough investigations to match dental records, photographic evidence, and x-rays to teeth or bite marks discovered at a crime or accident scene. Professionals are frequently required to present their findings to law enforcement officials and judges, as well as testify as an expert witness in court.
When tooth fragments or bite marks are discovered at a crime scene, an odontologist may be called in to determine the perpetrator’s identity. He or she sends samples to a laboratory to be compared to the dental records of suspects in a case. An expert might also examine bite marks on a victim to assist police in gathering enough evidence to make an arrest. Odontologists typically write detailed reports about their findings and present evidence at criminal trials in order to convict people.
Without the assistance of trained odontologists, identifying victims of fires, explosions, or disfiguring accidents is often difficult or impossible. After such incidents, teeth may be the only body parts left intact, and forensic labs are required to examine them. To identify victims, an odontologist might use microscopes, DNA extraction equipment, and dental records stored in computer databases. Odontologists examine pieces of teeth and jaws found in decayed human remains to determine their identity.
To become an odontologist, one must typically complete the same educational requirements as other dentists, gain experience by assisting other professionals for a period of time, and pass extensive licensing exams. In most cases, aspiring odontologists must complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program as well as three to four years of dentistry school. Individuals usually begin internships or residencies after graduation to learn more about the specifics of forensic dentistry from experienced odontologists. State and country licensing procedures differ, but most new odontologists must pass written and practical exams before practicing independently.
The field of forensic dentistry is small, and there is fierce competition for positions in research labs and law enforcement agencies. Other types of dental services are frequently used by odontologists to supplement their income from criminal and accident investigation work. Many orthodontists, oral surgeons, and cosmetic dentists are also licensed odontologists. Some people decide to work as part-time or full-time professors at dental schools.