A case report of forensic personal identification by transposed teeth and dental treatment marks using multidetector row computed tomography

Abstract

Using postmortem computed tomography (CT) images, we achieved personal identification of a body using transposed teeth and dental treatment marks. Transposition of teeth is a rare malpositioning anomaly. CT images can clarify the malpositioning of the teeth's roots, which is difficult to discern from gross observation of the dentition. Because dental hygiene has reduced the incidence of caries in recent years, it might be difficult to use treatment marks for personal identification in the future. Transposed teeth, although rare, provide an important clue to personal identification.

Keywords

• Autopsy
• Decomposition
• Forensic dentistry
• Identification
• Postmortem computed tomography
• Tooth abnormality