Review Article
Year : 2018 | Volume : 3 | Issue : 2 | Page : 59 - 65
Current and Evolving Applications of Three‐dimensional Printing in Forensic Odontology: A Review
Roshan K Chaudhary, Nagabhushana Doggalli, HV Chandrakant1, Karthikeya Patil2
From the Department of Forensic Odontology, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, JSS Dental College and
Hospital, 1 Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, JSS Medical
College, 2 Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysore, Karnataka, India
Address for correspondence:
Dr. Roshan K Chaudhary,
E‐mail: samroshanchaudhary23@gmail.com
Abstract
In these digitized surroundings, we should not overlook the use of three-dimensional (3D) printing in forensic odontology, for investigative or court purposes, which is still comparatively new. We will use the term “3D printing” as it is widely recognized and will perhaps be the simplest phrase for the odontologist for daily use. Alternative terms are additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping. Today, 3D printing is most commonly used in dentistry for the manufacture of drill guides for dental implants, study models for prosthodontics, orthodontics and surgery, the manufacture of dental, craniomaxillofacial and orthopedic implants, and the fabrication of copings and frameworks for implant and dental restorations. However, we are yet to see forensic odontologists, lawyers, and expert witnesses appreciate embrace the advantages of 3D printing for its use in court of law. This may be due to a perception of it being complicated technology, high cost, or simply a lack of understanding of what can be done with 3D printing. 3D image capture devices minimize the amount of angular distortion, therefore such a system has the potential to create more robust forensic evidence for use in courts and medico-legal cases. The major application of 3D printing in forensic odontology includes bite mark analysis, 3D-computed tomography facial reconstruction, dental age estimation, sex determination, and physical models. The aim of this review article is to outline the use and possible benefits of 3D printing in forensic odontology.
Key Words:
Bite mark, digital imaging and communications in medicine, facial reconstruction, stereolithography, three‐dimensional, three‐dimensional printing
Financial support and sponsorship
Nil.
Conflicts of interest
There are no conflicts of interest.
How to cite this article:
Chaudhary RK, Doggalli N, Chandrakant HV, Patil K. Current and evolving applications of three-dimensional printing in forensic odontology: A review. Int J Forensic Odontol 2018;3:59-65.
