Abstract :
Introduction: The potential applications for 3D printed reconstructions in forensic science are numerous. Replicas could be utilized across the forensic science process: in crime scenes, in intelligence gathering, analysis and interpretation of materials, in police investigations, and in courtroom presentation of evidence. Further, 3D replicas could be beneficial in forensic science teaching and public outreach programs. In order for 3D printing to be utilized in forensic science, particularly in courts of law, the discipline needs a recognizable evidence-base that underpins its reliability and applicability. At present, there is a distinct lack of empirical research around 3D printing in the forensic sciences, an issue that needs to be addressed. The application of 3D printing is well established in dentistry and dental restorations, while more recently, 3D printing is beginning to be applied in forensic odontology. As with forensic anthropology or pathology, 3D printing is well suited to forensic odontology as replicas of human bones and teeth can be 3D printed by novel methods.Aim and Objective: 1.To explore the applications of 3D printing in disciplines of forensic odontology. 2. To validate use of 3D printing in bite-mark analysis, facial reconstruction, gender, and forensic documentation.Materials and Methods: Intraoral 3D scans of selected subjects were performed by appropriate infection control guidelines using "MEDIT i500” (South Korea) Intraoral 3D scanner. The generated STL files (3D virtual model) were prepared for printing using SATURN EL3D (ELEGOO, Shenzhen,China)using white/clear PLA material by the SLA technique and 3D replicas fabricated. For 3D reconstruction from CBCT scans, the images were saved as Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) data and transferred to a compact disc (CD).The DICOM data were then reconstructed using EXOCAD (3D GmBH Germany) , a free, open?source, cross?platform program. The 3D replicas were appropriately validated for forensic documentation, bitemark analysis and 3D reconstruction.Conclusion: 3D printing can be applied in forensic odontology to maintain antemortem records, bite mark analysis and facial reconstructions from CT images for identification of individuals. This paper highlights few of the practical applications of 3D printing in forensic odontology.
Keyword :
Bite mark, Evidence reconstruction, 3D printing, Forensic dentistry, 3D imaging