Tongue Prints: A Forensic Review

Abstract

Forensic odontology is a branch of forensic sciences which proof to be very helpful during investigation
of criminal cases and during person identification by providing the dental expertise in the court and to the
legal system so that proper justice can be done based on evidence. The tongue is a crucial organ very much
encased inside the oral cavity and shielded from nature. Tongue print is the subtleties present on uncovered
section of tongue when the surface and shape are assembled. The morphology and surface highlights are
attributes of each person, and these characteristics can be utilized for criminological distinguishing proof.
It has unique shape and surface textures in each individual. The shape, colour and texture of tongue are
different in identical twins. And hence it can be used as a new method for personal identification with
further elaboration. The unique features make it a valuable tool in forensic odontology. The exposed
portion of tongue contains information with visible differences from one individual to another therefore it
is helpful in identification of suspect during forensic investigation. Tongue becomes the forensic evidence
for establishing the cause of death. It is an evolving science in the field of forensic and there is greater scope
for its further development. The use of tongue print as forensic identification is at budding stage but now its
use as a biometric authentication system is gaining a lot of popularity. This review is aimed at describing the
distinctive features of tongue, application of tongue prints in personal identification and as biometric system
and the challenges faced in its use.