Forensic odontology has entered an era of rapid technological advancements, thanks to digital dentistry. Therefore, it is imperative to explore new frontiers that can revolutionize not only clinical dentistry but also its applications in forensics, contributing to the progress of forensic sciences. The potential of advanced imaging techniques and artificial intelligence has the capacity to redefine several activities performed by forensic odontologists, including antemortem and postmortem dental data collection.
Efficient data collection and secure archiving are fundamental to the progress of human identification of unidentified human remains. The adoption of emerging technologies, such as dental photogrammetry, three-dimensional (3D) scanning, and smart glasses, enables comprehensive dental data collection and facilitates seamless data sharing and remote collaboration. Intraoral scanners offer high-resolution 3D dental models, allowing for the development of extensive databases of dental information and serving as an invaluable tool for comparative analysis.
In addition, these scanners enable both onsite and remote analysis, enhancing the field capabilities. The incorporation of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms further enhances the speed and accuracy of dental matching and other assessments. Dental radiology and intraoral scanning of unidentified human remains elevate the field capabilities in the process of human identification and age estimation. Collaboration among researchers, forensic professionals, and technology experts is vital to leverage these advancements.
This presentation will describe virdentopsy cases involving modern and ancient human remains, showcasing the utilization of digital tools, artificial intelligence, and the metaverse. These technologies unlock the full potential of forensic odontology in the pursuit of justice and truth, especially when forensic odontologists are not available onsite.