Palatal Rugae: A Forensic Marker for Human Identification- Case Studies and Applications

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Palatal rugae,  of the mouth, have been recognized for their individual patterns, which remain stable throughout a person's life. This uniqueness makes them valuable in forensic investigations, especially when other identification methods are compromised.

Case Studies and Applications:

1. Edentulous Cases: In situations where individuals lack teeth (edentulous cases), traditional dental identification methods become challenging. A study reviewed the significance of palatal rugae patterns in such cases, emphasizing their reliability as forensic markers. The research concluded that palatal rugae patterns are unique to each individual and remain unchanged over time, making them a dependable tool for identification in edentulous individuals.

2. Orthodontic Treatment Cases: Orthodontic procedures can alter dental structures, potentially affecting identification processes. However, studies have shown that palatal rugae patterns remain consistent even after orthodontic treatments. This stability reinforces their reliability in forensic identification, as the patterns do not change significantly post-treatment.

3. Population-Specific Studies: Research has been conducted to determine the uniqueness of rugae patterns among different populations. For instance, a study among the Mewar and Hadoti regions' populations aimed to identify area-specific rugae patterns. Such studies assist in creating databases that can be referenced during forensic investigations, enhancing the accuracy of identifications.

Conclusion:

These cases and studies underscore the significance of palatal rugae in forensic dentistry. Their unique and stable patterns provide a reliable means of identifying individuals, particularly when other methods are not feasible. As forensic techniques advance, the incorporation of palatal rugae analysis continues to play a crucial role in human identification.