64 Forensic dentistry
dental identification is not possible if no antemortem dental records can be
found. The techniques discussed in this chapter can be used either alone or,
more often, in combination to establish the presumptive identification of an
individual, allowing for either dental, DNA, or fingerprint information to be
obtained and compared.
5.4 Visual Identification
Visual identification is perhaps the most commonly used method of identifi-
cation and is used to establish both positive and presumptive identification.
Visual identification is used in cases of automobile accidents or a witnessed
collapse and a family member or friend tells the police or emergency medical
personnel, “This is John Smith.” Law enforcement/medical personnel take
the identification as truth, that this is who the witness proclaims. However,
visual identification is one of the least reliable forms of identification and
can be fraught with error. Witnesses/family may be under duress at the time
of the incident and make an innocent mistake (“Well, it looked like Uncle
Bob”). The family/friends may refuse to examine the remains, may simply
glance at the remains rather than truly examining them, or may deny that
the remains are those of their loved one as an emotional defense mechanism.
Witnesses/family members may purposefully incorrectly identify the dece-
dent for either financial gain or other personal reasons.
Comparison of the deceased to a photograph, whether from a driver’s
license or personal photo, is another form of visual identification. Visual iden-
tification is also employed in public notice campaigns where an individual’s
photo or a facial reconstruction is broadcast on television or flyers, asking
anyone who recognizes the photo/sketch to contact authorities to assist with
possible identification.
In many cases, however, the body may not be able to be identified visu-
ally. The changes of decomposition (Figures 5.2 to 5.4), including drying of
the mucous membranes, bloating of the soft tissues, discoloration of the skin,
and skeletonization, may obscure/obliterate features. The face may also have
sustained injuries that distort the features, severely limiting visual identifica-
tion, including trauma or burning (Figures 5.5 and 5.6).
5.5 Circumstantial
The circumstances of death can often assist in identifying a person. The
location where a person/body is found in itself can provide helpful clues. If
found in a domicile, one can establish who lives there, or if found in a vehicle,
investigators can track down the owner. Personal papers, mail, medications,