Many people across the United States watch prime-time television each night to enjoy their favorite shows. While many of Americas favorite shows are reality series, most people enjoy watching crime dramas involving solving murder mysteries and forensic detective work to catch dangerous criminals. If you have watched these shows, chances are that you are aware of the extensive process of how detectives gather forensic evidence to solve crimes and identify murder victims. While it may seem that these investigators automatically have everything they need to do their work, there are several identification processes that are used to document a person throughout their life.

Have You Ever Wondered How Dental Forensics Are Gathered?

Dental forensics are easily gathered each time a person goes to see their dentist for a yearly checkup. Dental x-rays are a great way to detect cavities and diagnose bone disorders, but they also serve as a record of the shape and placement of someone’s teeth, along with the size and structure of someones jaw. Each tooth is given an individual number, which is recorded in order for every unique individual. Dental records are a useful tool for forensic investigation to help law enforcement detectives identify criminals who have bit someone, or to identify an unknown person who has fallen victim to a fire, natural disaster, or violent crime.

Now you know the basics of dental forensics. Make a point of scheduling a checkup with your dentist at least once a year. Always remember to practice proper oral hygiene, and speak to your dentist about any concerns that you may have about your oral health.