THE IMPORTANCE OF DENTAL EXPERTISE IN HUMAN IDENTIFICATION IN DISASTERS – A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Forensic dentistry is an essential tool in human identification processes, especially in mass disaster situations where traditional methods, such as fingerprinting and visual recognition, become unfeasible. This study aims to analyze, through a literature review, the importance of forensic dentistry in the identification of disaster victims. Five scientific articles were selected, addressing different strategies and challenges related to the role of the forensic dentist. The results show that, despite technological advances such as the use of intraoral scanners, computed tomography, and international INTERPOL protocols, there are still significant limitations, mainly associated with the inadequacy of dental records. It is concluded that forensic dentistry, combined with new technologies and standardized procedures, is indispensable in victim identification, directly contributing to justice and human dignity.