White Spot Lesions on Teeth as Forensic Identifier in a Decomposed Body: An Odontology Forensic Case Report

Victim identification in disaster scenarios is challenging, especially when remains are decomposed, burned, or fragmented. Forensic odontology plays a key role by using the unique and durable features of teeth for identification. Teeth resist decomposition and high temperatures, making them reliable markers in incidents such as accidents, fires, or natural disasters, particularly when other identifiers are unavailable.

This case report aims to highlight the utility of smile photograph superimposition and the forensic value of white spot lesions as unique identifiers in disaster victim identification, particularly when conventional dental records are unavailable.

A decomposed adolescent body was recovered from a river without available fingerprint and dental records.

The body was recovered and examined for external injuries and identifying features. During autopsy, dental examination revealed white spot lesions on the maxillary anterior teeth. Forensic odontologists performed smile photograph superimposition using ante-mortem images from social media. The white spot patterns and superimposition matched, and DNA analysis later confirmed the identity.

This case highlights the value of white spot lesions as individualizing dental features. When combined with photographic superimposition, such enamel defects can support victim identification in the absence of formal dental records. It demonstrates how subtle dental anomalies, when carefully analyzed, can aid confirmation of identity through a multidisciplinary forensic approach.