The importance of forensic dentistry in resolving truth and justice in cases involving forensic analysis of the dental arc in Brazil

Abstract

Forensic dentistry is a highly recognized specialty in the field of dentistry for the simple fact that it is directly linked to justice. It is made up of several areas of activity, and one of them is in the criminal sphere, where the dental surgeon, with his scientific and technical competence, is responsible for the constant search for individuals in different states of decomposition. The present work aims to explain the expert’s role in the criminal environment, where he performs analysis using dental evidence on corpses to assist the judicial system in the search for missing individuals in an advanced stage of decomposition and even in cases of mass accidents. In Brazil, the work of criminal experts is present in official forensic bodies, where they are approves through a public competition to become a police authority responsible for identifying and issuing ante-mortem and post-mortem reports. It is clear that the lack of specific knowledge for human identification can result in insufficient evidence and negligence in the criminal process, making it incoherent even for the victims’ families. It is worth considering that for the judicial system to function properly, it is necessary to correctly manage the specific knowledge of criminal experts present in the judicial system, thus strengthening cooperation between health and justice professionals.