Denture marking as a tool in forensic dentistry

Marked dentures can be important in identifying the owners in case of an accident, loss of memory, states of unconsciousness, being inadvertently misplaced on admission to a hospital or, in identifying the bodies of those who have died in a calamity. Positive identification through marked dentures plays a key role in forensic scenario. Marking dentures has been considered an important part of forensic dentistry, although no standardized method is followed. A number of marking systems are available and can be broadly separated into either surface marking methods or inclusion systems. Each of the commonly described techniques is assessed with respect to their strengths and weaknesses. The more contemporary methods, though hi-tech, are expensive and may not be suitable for all dental practitioners to use. This article reviews the strengths and weaknesses of various methods involved in marking dentures concluding by recommending that this valuable topic be included in the dental curriculum in India.