Forensic odontology programmes could benefit from 3D models

Anisha Hall Hoppe, Dental Tribune International

Wed. 6. November 2024

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DUNDEE, Scotland: Advancing technology in forensic odontology is vital to further improving the accuracy and reliability of dental identification, bite mark analysis and age estimation, ultimately improving the effectiveness of criminal investigations. Digital 3D technology specifically has become increasingly important, not only for teaching and training but also for legal communication in courtrooms. In a new study, researchers at the University of Dundee created digital 3D models illustrating how human teeth and commonly used dental materials are affected by various physical and chemical agents. They have made their models available on Sketchfab.

Forensic odontologists often encounter teeth damaged by accidents, violence or disasters, presenting challenges in identification. The ability to digitally replicate dental trauma enables consistent, hands-on training and provides a valuable educational resource for forensic odontology students and professionals. Additionally, using these digital models helps overcome logistical challenges associated with traditional cadaver-based learning.

The study consisted of two parts, both of which entailed exploring the need for specific dental damage models and then creating suitable digital 3D models. The first part involved a survey among forensic odontologists and students regarding their view on whether digital 3D models would be useful for revision or learning and assessing their knowledge and understanding of the types of dental damage commonly seen in forensic cases.

The survey results indicated varying levels of knowledge among participants regarding specific types of dental damage. For instance, although 84% correctly identified pink teeth associated with postmortem conditions, only 25% could accurately apply the Ellis and Davey classification system for tooth fractures. The participants reported that the forms of dental damage they most frequently encountered were trauma and postmortem missing teeth, followed by incineration. Pink teeth were the least common, suggesting that this phenomenon may not be frequently observed in forensic cases. Based on the participants’ answers, the researchers created a digital 3D model that simulated restored and unrestored burnt teeth, postmortem pink teeth and traumatic injuries.

The second part of the study was informed by a previous systematic review of experimental research on high-temperature effects on dental materials.. The researchers then created a digital 3D model which illustrated the impact of different agents of damage, including fire, acids and water, on various prosthetic and restorative materials.

The creation of realistic visual references and interactive experiences for understanding dental damage could potentially transform the teaching of forensic odontology and aid in legal contexts by improving the visual presentation of evidence.

The study, titled “Dental damage: Creating 3D anatomical models to illustrate destructive effects on human teeth”, was published in the December 2024 issue of Morphologie.