Many people put off routine dental appointments. When you have a busy schedule filled with errands, meetings, and family obligations, your dental health may not always seem like a priority.
However, some of the most common dental services, like X-rays, can become seriously important in the event of an emergency.
When you come to Evolve Dentistry & Aesthetics, you’ll receive treatment from Dr. McGowen, our expert dental provider. But Dr. McGowen isn’t just an expert in general dentistry—she also has extensive training in forensic dentistry.
Because of her specialized background, Dr. McGowen has a unique perspective on the dental process. She’s seen how X-rays can serve as a vital resource in the forensic process.
If you’re curious to learn more about the unique benefits of X-rays, meet with our forensic dentist in Craven County, or read more below.
What Is Forensic Dentistry?
Dentistry is a major part of the forensic process that uses teeth or their impressions to identify remains, estimate age, or even narrow down suspect lists. Often, forensic dentists compare the remaining teeth to an X-ray and evaluate matching characteristics.
As one example, a survivor of a violent attack may have bite marks from a perpetrator imprinted in their skin. A forensic dentist can examine those marks to glean new information about the case, and even rule out potential suspects based on the impressions.
Forensic dentists can also identify bodies with no obvious, distinguishing features.
If a plane crashes and unfortunately leaves no survivors, the bodies in the wreckage may be too damaged to recognize. With the help of a forensic dentist, law enforcement can receive a positive identification in as little as 2 days.
By examining the body’s teeth and fillings, then cross-referencing with X-rays, forensic dentists can look deeper to find the truth.
The Importance of X-rays
X-rays offer a deeper understanding of a patient’s oral health. Everyone’s teeth are different, depending on their genetics, habits, and lifestyle. When performed regularly, X-rays identify possible trouble areas and allow for proactive or restorative treatment earlier to protect long-term oral health.
Forensic dental experts like Dr. McGowen can also use these distinctions to identify someone based on their teeth alone. Because of this, we urge patients to schedule regular dental appointments. Not only does this keep your teeth healthier, but it also provides your loved ones with a safeguard against misidentification following a major accident.
If you’ve had an X-ray recently, make sure your family has, too. X-rays don’t just offer new insight into your dental health—they also provide peace of mind.
Look Deeper and Look Ahead With X-rays
Getting an X-ray can provide general dentists with the information they need to recommend a beneficial treatment plan. However, X-rays can also help a forensic dentist in Craven County provide families with closure following a serious accident.
Life comes at you without warning, and you don’t want to be unprepared. To receive an X-ray, request an appointment with our experts. You can also learn more about your service options with our free online treatment planner.
Take the precautions your loved ones deserve at Evolve Dentistry & Aesthetics.
