Assessment of knowledge and awareness of forensic odontology among dentists in Tamil Nadu – A systematic review

AIM: The aim of the study is to analyze the knowledge, attitude and practice of forensic odontology among dental practitioners in Tamil Nadu. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forensic odontology has immense importance in examining dental evidence and in the identification of victims of mass disaster, abuse or organized crimes. Hence, a cross-sectional survey study was conducted in a sample of 252 dental practitioners practicing in various cities in Tamil Nadu. A questionnaire comprising 22 questions (both open ended and close ended) was prepared, and the survey was conducted to analyze the knowledge and attitude of dentists toward forensic odontology. RESULTS: Many of the practicing dentists had a basic knowledge about forensic odontology, but only 22% knew about the existence of a national association for forensic odontology. Forty-five percent of them knew about cheiloscopy. Seven percent of them only knew about the forensic courses available in India. Ninety-eight percent of them did not have any formal training related to forensic odontology. Seventy-two percent of them were not confident about giving an opinion for a forensic case. Most of them felt that our country has very limited resources for forensic odontology. CONCLUSION: This study showed that the branch of forensic odontology is still in the infant stage in the state. This condition, however, could be improved if more formal training courses are conducted by the specialist associations imparting knowledge and training in the field.