Connecting forensic odontology among medical practitioners in central Kerala – An original study

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND: The word forensic, defined by Clark, is derived from the Latin word “forensis,” which means “before the forum.” Odontology refers to the study of teeth. Even though the scope of forensic odontology is well established among dental professionals, its practical application lies largely in the hands of medicolegal professionals. The interaction between the above mentioned two communities is highly crucial for the proper application of forensic odontology in medicolegal issues. AIM: The main aim of this study is to analyze the knowledge, attitude, and practice of forensic odontology among medical practitioners in central Kerala since they are the connecting link between victims and the forensic odontologists. RESULTS: A total of 200 medical practitioners had participated in the study, and the response rate was 100%. The study indicated that medical practitioners who are having an experience of above 15 years had more knowledge regarding forensic odontology when compared with those below 15 years of experience. However, the awareness of modern technologies in forensic odontology and latest techniques to register dental markings were found to be more prevalent among doctors with less than 15 years of experience.