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The body of this decomposed individual was pulled from the sea. The loss of tissue around eyes and mouth was caused by marine predators. In this case the dentures were used to identify the individual. Some dental prostheses carry makers’ or patients’ record numbers embedded in the plate material, and this can be associated with the identity of the wearer. The cut throat was made by a nylon hawser that threw this ship’s officer overboard.
When a body is found in the sea, decomposition can be accelerated due to the water environment. Traditional methods of identification, such as fingerprints or visual recognition, may not be viable. In such cases, dental records become a reliable tool.
Dentures are customized dental appliances created specifically for an individual's unique oral structure. They can include details like tooth shape, size, and arrangement. Even after the decomposition process, dentures may remain intact or recognizable, aiding forensic experts in identifying the individual.
Forensic dentistry deals with proper handling and examination of dental evidence and proper evaluation and presentation of dental findings in interest of justice. Denture marking or labeling is not a new concept in either Prosthetic or Forensic dentistry and its routine practice has been urged by Forensic dentists internationally for many years.