F7: Dispelling the “CSI Effect” Myth, An Overview of Contemporary Forensic Dentistry

Because of the current popularity of forensic faire in television, the general public is getting a skewed view of the true nature of forensic investigation. This issue is commonly known as the “CSI effect”. In this lecture, this myth will be dispelled as it relates to forensic odontology. Topics will include forensic dental identification of decedents of varying postmortem states including: skeletal, fragmented, decomposed, burned remains and pattern injuries as they relate to bite mark investigation not only in human bites but animal bites as well. Understand forensic dental identification with the use of radiographs as well as by other means. Understand the various roles forensic dentists participate in with assisting law enforcement and death investigation agencies. Understand how dental records in your practice could be used in a forensic dental investigation.

Educational Objectives:

• Learn the varied roles of forensic dentists. 
• Understand the forensic value of dental records. 
• Recognize how to cooperate with the legal system.