Learning Objectives

• Differentiate between presumptive and scientific identification methods 
• Compare scientific methods for identifying human remains
• Identify technology for clinical practice that improves forensic capabilities. 
• Describe the challenges forensic dental teams encounter with antemortem dental records
• Explain the ethical duty and forensic need to maintain adequate antemortem dental documentation

Since the reign of Nero in the Roman Empire, the dentition has been utilized to identify human remains. Mass fatality incidents, terrorist attacks, and wars have established the need for forensic dental identification teams.  Both the American Society of Forensic Odontology and the American Board of Forensic Odontology recognize the valuable role dental hygienists play as part of forensic odontology teams and the identification process. The most important role a clinical dental hygienist can play in the forensic dental identification process occurs at a routine hygiene appointment, while the patient is alive--through dedication to accurate record keeping and maintaining diagnostic charting, intra-oral photos, and radiographs.   The presentation is jam-packed with photos and featuring examples of "less than quality" documentation and radiographs. Learn the difficulties forensic dental teams face with private practice documentation that contributes to a delay in the identification process.  The speaker will make recommendations about documentation of patient's oral conditions, lesions, and when radiographs should be retaken. Participate in mock-identifications by comparing antemortem and post-mortem radiographs.  Refresh your clinical documentation skills that contribute to identification of post-mortem remains and leave inspired to maintain the highest standards of professional documentation.