Giannakopoulos, K.; Lambrou-Christodoulou, P.; Kaklamanos, E.G. Awareness of Forensic Odontology among Dental Students and Faculty in Cyprus: A Survey-Based Study. Dent. J.2024, 12, 6.
Giannakopoulos, K.; Lambrou-Christodoulou, P.; Kaklamanos, E.G. Awareness of Forensic Odontology among Dental Students and Faculty in Cyprus: A Survey-Based Study. Dent. J. 2024, 12, 6.
Giannakopoulos, K.; Lambrou-Christodoulou, P.; Kaklamanos, E.G. Awareness of Forensic Odontology among Dental Students and Faculty in Cyprus: A Survey-Based Study. Dent. J.2024, 12, 6.
Giannakopoulos, K.; Lambrou-Christodoulou, P.; Kaklamanos, E.G. Awareness of Forensic Odontology among Dental Students and Faculty in Cyprus: A Survey-Based Study. Dent. J. 2024, 12, 6.
Abstract
This study sought to evaluate the awareness, comprehension, and practices concerning Forensic Odontology among dental students and faculty at a Dental School in Cyprus. An online, cross-sectional, descriptive survey was disseminated to the entirety of dental students and faculty of the School of Dentistry, European University Cyprus, in November 2022. Of those surveyed, 47 faculty members and 304 students responded, yielding response rates of 66.2% and 80%, respectively. The survey revealed that 87% of faculty and 65% of students were familiar with Forensic Odontology. A noteworthy 94% of faculty and 85% of students recognized teeth as DNA repositories. A high percentage, 98% of faculty and 89% of students, acknowledged the role of Forensic Odontology in the identification of criminals and deceased individuals. Awareness of age estimation through dental eruption patterns was evident in 85% of faculty and 81.6% of students. A substantial proportion (80% of faculty) maintained dental records, while 78% of students recognized the importance of dental record-keeping in ensuring quality care. Interestingly, 57% of students and 64% of faculty were aware of the possibility of dentists testifying as expert witnesses. The majority, 95.7% of faculty and 85% of students, concurred that physical harm, scars, and behavioral alterations predominantly indicate child abuse. The survey underscored a robust awareness of Forensic Odontology among respondents. Despite faculty's comprehensive understanding, there's a pronounced need to bolster their inclination towards attending relevant seminars. Emphasis on improved record-keeping practices for potential forensic applications is paramount.
Medicine and Pharmacology, Dentistry and Oral Surgery
Copyright:
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