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Identification may sometimes be challenging when the victim has severe injuries. This individual has facial injuries from a bomb explosion. Visual identification was not possible but since injury was absent to the mouth it was possible to perform a dental comparison and identify the individual. No further info.

Fig.1 Identification of a bomb victim.

In cases where the remains have been badly mutilated or burned, are in advanced putrefaction, or have been submerged in water for a long period of time, the possibility of obtaining any fingerprints of value is quite remote. This is where the forensic odontologist can be of assistance. Using powerful cameras, x-rays, and medical records, he or she can, through examination of the dentition and jawbones of the deceased, provide the investigator with positive identification as well as bite-mark identification. In addition, the forensic odontologist can provide information about the deceased, including age, general facial characteristics, race, socioeconomic group, occupation, or habits.

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