There is a growing need for dental expertise in the intriguing area of forensic medicine as dentists are called upon to help identify human remains as well as interpret bite marks on assault victims. Recent world events and the increasing popularity of forensic-based television programs have heightened curiosity about this evolving field. This interactive course will introduce you to the basic concepts and clinical approaches used by forensic dentists. The morning session lecture and discussion will address the theory of forensic dentistry, medicolegal issues, disaster management (practical exercise), and antemortem/postmortem X-ray identification. In the afternoon, you will break into teams for a postmortem/antemortem identification lab. A lecture and practical exercise on bite-mark analysis will follow.

This course will enable you to:

• Understand the basic concepts and clinical approaches used in forensic dentistry.
• Recognize the legal responsibilities of the forensic dentist.
• Understand antemortem and postmortem X-ray identification
• Understand how to manage a disaster site.
• Identify bite marks as evidence in identification procedures

Please note: For the lab portion of the course, you must bring stone models of your maxillary and mandibular teeth (trimmed, mounting is not required). Also bring a food item that will retain bite marks (i.e., chocolate, cheese, banana, or apple).