DNA Profiling in Forensic Dentistry

Abstract

The recent advances in molecular biology have revolutionized all aspects of dentistry. Deoxyribose Nucleic
Acid (DNA), the language of life yields information beyond our imagination with respect to our body
health conditions. DNA is present in chromosomes and is responsible for storing all the genetic material
and they are not the same for all individuals. Forensic dental comparison has been used for identification of
humans in cases where body tissues are damaged or prolonged exposure to the environment has made the
identification impractical. The use of DNA profile tests in forensic dentistry provides a new perspective in
human identification. This article summarizes the recent literature on use of this technique in identification
of unidentified human remains, highlighting the importance of DNA in the cases of forensic investigation.