Use of non-clinical smile images for human identification: a systematic review.

Human identification using Forensic Dentistry occurs through comparative analysis of ante-mortem (AM) and post-mortem (PM) data. With the constant improvement of technology, photographs became a common source of AM data. When clinical dental records are not available, images showing the smile can be useful in human identification. The aim of this study was to investigate human identification techniques through the analysis of smile images in the available literature. Studies on human identification through the analysis of smile images were searched in the scientific literature. The search resulted in 4,043 studies. After screening, 14 studies were considered eligible. Eleven were case reports, two were pilot studies and one a technical note. From the eligible studies, in addition to the methodological data, information about the sample, used techniques and results regarding human identification were extracted. Three techniques were detected: direct comparison of morphological characteristics, AM/PM image overlap, and the analysis of smile lines. One or more associated techniques were used for human identification. Authors highlighted as a common limitation of the techniques the quality of the available images, the difficulty in reproducing PM the same images AM, and the eventual image modifications performed by the victim before posting in social media. Advantages included the low-cost aspect of the technique, as well as a potential fast and accurate procedure (depending on the quantity and quality of evidence). In general, studies considered the technique useful and adjuvant for human identification.

Cone beam computed tomography study on the relation between mental foramen and roots of mandibular teeth, presence of anterior loop and satellite foramina.

PURPOSE: To investigate the position of the mental foramen based on its relation with the roots of the mandibular teeth and quantify the prevalence of anterior loop and satellite foramina in the mandible in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. METHODS: The sample consisted of 400 CBCT scans of males (n=190) and females (n=210) from Moscow, Russia. Using the system proposed by Tebo and Telford (1950), the position of the mental foramen was classified into: I) mesial to the mandibular first premolar; II) at the apex of the mandibular first premolar; III) between the roots of the mandibular first and second premolars; IV) at the apex of the mandibular second premolar; V) between the roots of the mandibular second premolar and first molar; and VI) at the apex of the roots of the mandibular first molar. Additionally, the images were assessed to investigate the prevalence of the anterior loop of the mandibular canal and the presence of satellite foramina. RESULTS: Mental foramen position class III was the most prevalent (61%) followed by class IV (27%), II (8%), I, V and VI (together <4%). Statistically significant differences were not detected between males and females (P<0.05). In Russian males and females, the anterior loop of the mandibular canal was found in 15.78% and 3%, respectively; while satellite foramina were found in 31.58% and 19.62%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The spatial position of the mental foramen and the morphological alterations of the mandibular canal and adjacent foramina must be known prior to surgical interventions in the mandible.