AWARENESS OF FORENSIC DENTISTRY AMONGST DENTAL PROFESSIONALS AT DENTAL COLLEGES AND CLINICS IN ABBOTTABAD, PAKISTAN - A QUESTIONNAIRE BASED STUDY

Authors

  • Amber Khan Abbottabad International Medical Institute, KPK, Pakistan
  • Bakhtawar Yaqoob
  • Saleema Majeed Khan
  • Ademir Franco
  • Amber Farooq
  • Wahaj Ainees

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21117/rbol-v12n32025-618

Keywords:

Awareness, Dentists, Forensic odontology

Abstract

Introduction: Forensic Odontology is a specialized field within dentistry and forensic science, focused on the analysis and interpretation of dental evidence for legal purposes. It encompasses dental identification, bite marks, cheiloscopy, and rugoscopy, and plays a crucial role in identifying human remains, especially in mass disasters and criminal cases where other identification methods may fail.

Objective: While widely recognized internationally, awareness of forensic odontology in Pakistan is limited, mainly due to insufficient exposure and education. In Pakistan, it is included under Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the undergraduate level.

Material and method: This study aimed to evaluate the awareness, attitude, and practice regarding forensic odontology among 111 dental professionals in Abbottabad, KPK. A structured questionnaire was distributed to participants from both clinical and academic backgrounds, and ethical clearance was obtained prior to data collection.

Results: The study surveyed 111 dental professionals in Abbottabad, revealing high awareness of forensic odontology basics, such as its role in identification and DNA sourcing from teeth. However, practical application was lacking—most participants had no formal training, didn't maintain dental records, and were unaware of child abuse indicators or job opportunities in the field. While interest in workshops and further education was high, 80.2% reported forensic odontology was not part of their curriculum. The statistically significant p-value (0.025) indicates a notable gap between knowledge and practice.

Conclusion: The study reveals that dental professionals, regardless of experience, have limited knowledge, poor attitudes, and minimal practice in forensic odontology due to lack of formal education and curriculum inclusion. This gap can be addressed by integrating forensic odontology into dental education and training programs in Pakistan.

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Published

2026-04-28

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 3 (2025): RBOL

Section

Artigo original

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