Forensic Odontology in Criminal Investigations: Scientific Reliability, Evidentiary Value and Legal Challenges in India
Forensic odontology, the application of dental science to forensic investigations, plays an important role in human identification, age estimation, examination of bite marks, and identification of deceased persons in criminal investigations and mass disasters. Dental structures and records may provide valuable evidence when conventional identification methods are unavailable or inadequate. However, the scientific reliability of different odontological techniques, particularly bite mark analysis, has raised concerns about subjectivity, methodological limitations, and the possibility of erroneous conclusions. This research examines the evidentiary value of forensic odontology within the Indian criminal justice system, with particular reference to the admissibility and evaluation of expert opinions under Section 39 of the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023. It further analyzes the legal and procedural challenges associated with the collection, preservation and interpretation of dental evidence, including the competence of forensic experts, maintaining the chain of possession, lack of uniform operational standards and protection of the rights of the accused and victims. The study adopts a doctrinal and analytical approach by examining relevant statutory provisions, judicial decisions, scientific literature and comparative legal developments. It distinguishes the established utility of dental records in identification from the contested reliability of individual techniques, especially the attribution of bite marks to a specific person. The research argues that the evidentiary weight of forensic odontology should depend on the scientific validity of the method employed, the qualifications of the expert, the quality of the available evidence and independent corroboration, rather than the mere assertion of scientific expertise. It recommends standardised protocols, specialised training, transparent expert reporting and rigorous judicial scrutiny to promote the fair and responsible use of forensic dental evidence.