FOR5015 - Post mortem dental identification: Principles and methods - 2017

The primary function of Forensic Odontology is to identify unknown deceased individuals who cannot be visually recognized by close family members.

Forensic Odontology practitioners require expert knowledge in areas including; post-mortem examination technique, ante-mortem record interpretation and transposition, specialized post-mortem imaging methods, and cranio-facial superimposition techniques.

The aim of this unit is to provide students with a thorough understanding of the standard methods involved in post-mortem dental examination techniques leading to the identification of unknown deceased individuals.

The unit is designed to provide practicing dentists with the required knowledge and skills so that they will be able to conduct a standard forensic identification case from the beginning to its completion.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Confidently follow and apply relevant mortuary protocols and practice - giving specific consideration to OH&S issues and requirements;
2. Perform dental post-mortem examinations using appropriate techniques, including standard and advanced imaging modalities;
3. Analyse the techniques involved in ante-mortem record collection and interpretation methods specifically related to dental issues;
4. Correctly interpret the Interpol DVI guidelines and comprehend the complex issues involved in reconciliation of ante-mortem and post-mortem data using the Interpol standard forms;
5. Accurately describe and report on injuries to the teeth, cranio-facial skeleton, and soft tissues of the face;
6. Evaluate the role of other mortuary based identification methods, such as molecular biology, fingerprints, the weight given to circumstantial evidence, and cranio-facial superimposition.

• Assignment (20%)
• Case studies (30%)
• Oral presentation (20%)
• Case book (30%)

It is expected that students will need to undertake approximately 12 hours of study per week over the semester. This will include contact time, private study, assessment tasks (case studies, assignments) and, where possible, involvement in casework. Students are required to attend all workshops offered at the Department of Forensic Medicine during the semester.

See also Unit timetable information

Associate Professor Richard Bassed

Compulsory 2 day workshop.

Forensic medicine

Students must be registered dental practitioners

FOR4001, FOR4002, FOR4003, FOR5014

postgrad.courses@vifm.org