Awareness of Forensic Odontology Among Lebanese Dentists: Implications for Dental Education and Training
Organized by: International Forensic Scientist Awards
Website: forensicscientist.org
18th Edition of Forensic Scientist Awards 26-27 January 2026 | Bangkok, Thailand
Introduction
Forensic odontology is a specialized branch of dentistry that applies dental knowledge to legal and criminal investigations. It plays a crucial role in human identification, disaster victim identification (DVI), bite mark analysis, and medico-legal casework. Despite its importance, forensic odontology remains underrepresented in dental education and professional training in many regions, including Lebanon.
This blog post explores the level of awareness of forensic odontology among Lebanese dentists and discusses the implications for dental education, curriculum development, and continuing professional training.
What Is Forensic Odontology?
Forensic odontology involves the examination and evaluation of dental evidence for legal purposes. Dentists trained in forensic odontology assist law enforcement agencies by:
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Identifying unknown human remains using dental records
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Supporting mass disaster investigations
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Analyzing bite marks in assault cases
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Providing expert testimony in courts of law
Because teeth are highly durable and unique, dental evidence is often critical when other identification methods fail.
Current Awareness Among Lebanese Dentists
Studies and surveys assessing Lebanese dentists reveal variable levels of awareness and practical knowledge regarding forensic odontology. While many practitioners are familiar with the term, fewer possess:
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Formal training in forensic procedures
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Experience handling medico-legal dental cases
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Knowledge of proper dental record maintenance for legal use
This gap highlights the need for structured education and hands-on training in this field.
Gaps in Dental Education and Training
One of the major challenges identified is the limited inclusion of forensic odontology in undergraduate and postgraduate dental curricula. Common gaps include:
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Minimal theoretical exposure
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Lack of practical workshops or case-based learning
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Limited access to forensic laboratories or interdisciplinary training
Without adequate training, dentists may be unprepared to respond effectively when called upon in forensic or legal contexts.
Importance of Curriculum Enhancement
Integrating forensic odontology into dental education can:
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Improve dentists’ medico-legal competence
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Strengthen collaboration between dentists and forensic authorities
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Enhance national preparedness for disaster victim identification
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Promote ethical and legal responsibility in dental practice
Curriculum reforms should emphasize both theoretical foundations and practical applications, supported by continuing dental education programs.
Need for Continuing Professional Development
For practicing dentists, continuing dental education (CDE) programs are essential to bridge existing knowledge gaps. Recommended initiatives include:
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Certified forensic odontology workshops
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Online training modules and webinars
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Interdisciplinary seminars with forensic scientists and legal experts
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National guidelines on forensic dental practice
Such efforts can help build a competent forensic dental workforce in Lebanon.
Future Directions and Policy Implications
Raising awareness of forensic odontology requires coordinated efforts from:
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Dental schools and academic institutions
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Professional dental associations
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Health and legal authorities
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Policy makers and curriculum regulators
Developing standardized training frameworks and national protocols can significantly enhance the role of dentists in forensic investigations.
Conclusion
The awareness of forensic odontology among Lebanese dentists is growing but remains insufficient to meet current medico-legal demands. Strengthening dental education, curriculum integration, and professional training is essential to ensure that dentists are adequately prepared to contribute to forensic science and justice systems.
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