Forensic dentistry case book 7 : family photos save the day

Abstract

The police were summoned to investigate the foul smell coming from a bachelor flat in a high rise building in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. After forcing their way into the flat, they found the body of a severely decomposed male. It was assumed that the deceased was the owner of the flat, but due to the extensive decomposition a visual identification was not possible. The deceased's children were all living aboard and were advised of the situation. From the state of the dentition, it was evident that the deceased had not visited a dentist for some time.