Dental radiographic superimposition : an exciting addition to the forensic odontology armamentarium

Abstract

Forensic odontology plays an important role in the identification of severely decomposed or carbonised corpses, particularly when conventional identification methods fail. This case report highlights the use of dental radiographic superimposition of extensive dental restorative work in the identification of a severely carbonised corpse. Ante- and post-mortem radiographs were analysed via superimposition using the Adobe Photoshop® 2021 image manipulation software. Multiple concordant features, as well as near-perfect radiographic superimposition, enabled a positive identification of the carbonised corpse. This emphasises the need for consultation of forensic odontologists in cases where dental restorative work is noted during post-mortem examination.