DNA Profiling Advances in Forensic Dentistry- A Review

Abstract

Forensic Odontology is a branch of forensic science involves in human identification through dental tissues or more specifically teeth when there is the destruction of body tissues in criminal mass disasters. The importance of Forensic Dentistry in recent days lies mainly when there is little remaining material to perform such identification has led dentists working with forensic investigators to become more aware with the new molecular biology technologies. In the last few years, DNA analysis methods are more commonly applied in the forensic cases due to its uniqueness in identification of human remains even in the deceased state. DNA is a genetic material which is unique to each individual. In oral cavity and mainly in tooth structure DNA is found to be in abundant and hence it can be an excellent source of genomic DNA. Recently, DNA profiling has high reliability and is accepted as legal proofs in courts. This article mainly focuses on an overview of DNA and their applications in the last few years, highlighting its importance in forensic investigation.