Age estimation in adults by canine teeth: a systematic review of the Cameriere method with meta-analysis on the reliability of the pulp/tooth area ratio.

The age estimation of an adult using methods accessible to the forensic routine is a goal pursued by forensic experts. Cameriere, Ferrante and Cingolani (2004) proposed the use of the pulp/tooth area ratio of canine teeth as a promising variable, but its reliability has shown conflicting results in the scientific literature. This article aimed to carry out a systematic review with meta-analysis to verify whether the pulp/tooth area ratio of canine teeth includes a variable that can be used alone to estimate dental age in adults. A systematic search was carried out in six databases using keywords related to the theme in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. The study selection process followed pre-established eligibility criteria. Assessments were carried out regarding risk of bias and publication bias of selected studies, and meta-analysis was carried out considering Pearson's correlation coefficient between pulp/tooth area ratio and chronological age as effect measure. Most selected studies showed low risk of bias; no publication bias was found when all studies were considered, and potential publication bias was found when outliers were removed. Despite the high heterogeneity among studies and the need for more research, it could be observed that the pulp/tooth area ratio has strong negative correlation with chronological age, and the pulp/tooth area ratio could be derived from both periapical radiographs and orthopantomographs. Therefore, it is suggested that there is scientific evidence that the pulp/tooth area ratio obtained from canine teeth is reliable for dental age estimation in adults.

Dental age estimation in adults using the Lamendin criteria: Validation of a bayesian model in the Brazilian population.

Age estimation provides information for biological profile, which is used as an important data during the process of to aid in the identification of bodies of deceased persons. Lamendin et al. proposed a simplified dental age estimation technique for adults based on the analysis of periodontal recession height, root height, and root translucency height. These characteristics were used to build a multi-population database that served in the development of a Bayesian model, known as the Forensic International Dental Database (FIDB). However, before this research, this model did not incorporate dental information from the Brazilian population. The aim of this article was to validate the application of the FIDB Bayesian statistical model for estimating dental age in samples from the Brazilian population and compare it to Lamendin's technique. A cross-sectional study was conducted using 230 dental elements extracted for therapeutic reasons and stored in a biobank. Two independent and calibrated examiners collected the data, considering the randomization of dental samples. Intra- and inter-examiner reliability analysis included the re-evaluation of 20 % (n = 40) of the sample. For statistical analyses, the data were organized in Microsoft© Excel© 365 version 2204 (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA, USA) spreadsheets, and R version 4.0.2 (R Foundation, Vienna, Austria) and IBM® SPSS® version 23.0 (SPSS Inc., IBM, Chicago, IL, USA) software were used. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, the final sample comprised 200 intact dental elements from 84 male and 116 female individuals. According to the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, the data did not show a normal distribution, and the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient indicated that intra- and inter-examiner agreements were adequate. Through the Mann-Whitney U test, statistically significant differences between sexes were not observed. In terms of overall accuracy, the Bayesian model and the original Lamendin´s technique showed a mean absolute error of 9.39 years and 9.95, respectively. Regarding bias, it was generally 0.15 years for the Bayesian model and 5.62 years for the original Lamendin´s technique. The Wilcoxon classification test revealed no statistically significant difference between chronological and estimated ages, but only for the Bayesian model. It can be concluded that the developed Bayesian statistical model was able to estimate the age of Brazilian adults satisfactorily, and overall, the error rates were acceptable.

Dental age estimation by cementum incremental lines counting: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

The estimation of dental age by cementum incremental lines (CIL) is a widely investigated method; however, its reliability remains uncertain. The aim of this article was to assess whether CIL are a reliable biological indicator for estimating dental age. A search was performed in Embase, LILACS, PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, Scopus and Web of Science databases using a combination of terms related to the topic. Two independent reviewers used inclusion and exclusion criteria so that relevant articles were selected and evaluated. For the risk of bias analysis, a checklist from The Joanna Briggs Institute was applied. For the meta-analysis, Pearson's Correlation Coefficient between chronological age and estimated age was considered as an effect measure. The heterogeneity of studies was assessed using the Cochran's Q statistical test (p < 0.05), and the publication bias using the asymmetry of the Funnel plot and Egger's linear regression test (p < 0.05). Most selected articles had low risk of bias. Although not all studies were included in the meta-analysis, it demonstrated the presence of high heterogeneity among them. Despite this, the synthesized result indicated that the age estimated by CIL count has a high correlation with chronological age. Furthermore, the graphical analysis suggested the absence of publication bias, which was confirmed by the Egger's linear regression test. Therefore, there is scientific evidence that CIL are reliable in estimating dental age, but the method requires a standardized protocol to be followed, as well as the rigorous choice of the root area to be analyzed.

Can a spontaneous smile invalidate facial identification by photo-anthropometry?

PURPOSE: Using images in the facial image comparison process poses a challenge for forensic experts due to limitations such as the presence of facial expressions. The aims of this study were to analyze how morphometric changes in the face during a spontaneous smile influence the facial image comparison process and to evaluate the reproducibility of measurements obtained by digital stereophotogrammetry in these situations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three examiners used digital stereophotogrammetry to obtain 3-dimensional images of the faces of 10 female participants (aged between 23 and 45 years). Photographs of the participants' faces were captured with their faces at rest (group 1) and with a spontaneous smile (group 2), resulting in a total of 60 3-dimensional images. The digital stereophotogrammetry device obtained the images with a 3.5-ms capture time, which prevented undesirable movements of the participants. Linear measurements between facial landmarks were made, in units of millimeters, and the data were subjected to multivariate and univariate statistical analyses using Pirouette® version 4.5 (InfoMetrix Inc., Woodinville, WA, USA) and Microsoft Excel® (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA, USA), respectively. RESULTS: The measurements that most strongly influenced the separation of the groups were related to the labial/buccal region. In general, the data showed low standard deviations, which differed by less than 10% from the measured mean values, demonstrating that the digital stereophotogrammetry technique was reproducible. CONCLUSION: The impact of spontaneous smiles on the facial image comparison process should be considered, and digital stereophotogrammetry provided good reproducibility.

Harmonização orofacial: evolução normativa e conflitos legais no reconhecimento da especialidade / Orofacial harmonization: normative evolution and legal conflicts for the recognition of the specialty

A Harmonização Orofacial (HOF) é especialidade odontológica reconhecida pelo Conselho Federal de Odontologia (CFO) e, no reconhecimento dessa especialidade, discussões internas e externas à classe odontológica surgiram. O presente artigo tem como objetivo levantar reflexões acerca do processo judicial n° 1003948-83.2019.4.01.3400 julgado pelo Tribunal Regional Federal (Seção Judiciária do Distrito Federal - 8ª Vara Federal) referente a HOF enquanto especialidade odontológica. Inicialmente, são discutidos os documentos que norteiam o ensino dos cursos de graduação e pós-graduação em odontologia. Em seguida, faz-se uma reflexão sobre o processo de reconhecimento da HOF como especialidade odontológica. Por fim, discute-se acerca do citado processo judicial, os principais pontos elencados pelas partes envolvidas no processo e eventuais consequências do desfecho desse processo para a classe odontológica. O reconhecimento da HOF enquanto especialidade odontológica não seguiu os trâmites que outras especialidades odontológicas seguiram e gerou debates educacionais e formativos sob uma perspectiva ética e legal. Ademais, tal reconhecimento fomentou debates relacionados ao conflito dos procedimentos dessa especialidade odontológica com procedimentos de especialidades médicas. Tais conflitos chegaram ao Poder Judiciário, que interveio em favor da Odontologia, contudo, isso não impede que o cirurgião-dentista seja responsabilizado profissionalmente pela realização de procedimentos que fogem ao escopo da odontologia

Orofacial Harmonization (HOF) is dental specialty recognized by the Federal Council of Dentistry (CFO) and, in recognition of this specialty, internal and external discussions of the dental class have arisen. This article aims to raise reflections on judicial process number 1003948-83.2019.4.01.3400 judged by the Federal Regional Court (Judicial Section of the Federal District - 8th Federal Court) referring to HOF as a dental specialty. Initially, the documents that guide the teaching of undergraduate and graduate courses in dentistry are discussed. Then, a reflection is made on the recognition process of HOF as a dental specialty. Finally, it discusses the judicial process number 1003948-83.2019.4.01.3400, the main points listed by the parties involved in the process, and the possible consequences of the outcome of this process for the dental class. The recognition of HOF as a dental specialty did not follow the procedures that other dental specialties followed and generated educational and training debates from an ethical and legal perspective. Furthermore, such recognition has fostered debates related to the conflict between procedures in this dental specialty and procedures in medical specialties. Such conflicts reached the Judiciary, which intervened in favor of Dentistry, however, this does not prevent the dental surgeon from being held professionally responsible for carrying out procedures that fall outside the scope of dentistry

Atestado odontológico falso e seu real enquadramento no Código Penal brasileiro / False certificate in Dentistry and its real framework in the Brazilian Penal Code

O atestado odontológico compreende um tipo de documento emitido pelo profissional que expressa a veracidade de um fato relacionado ao paciente constatado durante a prática clínica. O objetivo deste artigo foi apontar e analisar o tipo de crime que incorre o cirurgião-dentista que emite atestado falso. Trata-se de uma pesquisa transversal com abordagem descritiva realizada por meio do levantamento das provas de concursos públicos realizados no Brasil para o cargo de Perito Odontolegista ou nomenclatura correspondente. Foram considerados os concursos realizados nas unidades federativas do Brasil sem distinção quanto ao ano, sendo que a coleta das informações se deu nos meses de janeiro a abril de 2023. Conclui-se que, apesar de ocorrerem discrepâncias de interpretação muito pontuais na literatura odontológica quanto ao condizer entre os Artigos 299 e 302 do Código Penal Brasileiro, não há possibilidade legal de o cirurgião-dentista ser sujeito ativo do crime de falsidade de atestado médico, por ser crime próprio do profissional médico

The dental certificate comprises a kind of document issued by the professional that expresses the veracity of a fact related to the patient verified during clinical practice. The aim of this article was to point out and analyze the type of crime incurred by dentists who issue false certificates. This is a cross-sectional research with a descriptive approach carried out through the survey of public tenders held in Brazil for the position of Forensic Odontologist or corresponding nomenclature. It was considered the contests held in the Brazilian Federative Units without distinction to the year, and the information collection was performed from January to April 2023. It can be concluded that, although there are few interpretation discrepancies in the dental literature regarding articles 299 and 302 of the Brazilian Penal Code, there is no legal possibility for the dentist to be an active subject of the crime of falsity of medical certificate, as it is a crime specific to the professional medical doctor

Quando um remanescente de guta-percha é decisivo na identificação humana: relato de caso pericial / When gutta-percha residual is decisive in human identification: case report

A Odontologia Legal é a especialidade responsável por esclarecer demandas administrativas ou judiciais provenientes de diferentes esferas. Na esfera criminal, o processo de identificação humana engloba um conjunto de procedimentos que visam individualizar uma pessoa e, em diversas situações, a Odontologia Legal se destaca como um importante método de identificação humana. O objetivo desse trabalho foi apresentar um relato de caso em que a presença de um remanescente de guta-percha foi decisiva no processo de identificação humana. Após exame necroscópico em um cadáver e com a entrega do prontuário odontológico, foi realizada a comparação das informações recebidas do suspeito com aquelas coletadas no exame post mortem. Por meio dessa comparação, verificou-se que havia pontos coincidentes que permitiram que a identificação positiva da vítima fosse estabelecida, especialmente a presença, tanto no exame ante mortem quanto no post mortem, de um remanescente de guta-percha envolto por tecido cicatricial ósseo na região do dente 21. Os materiais dentários utilizados em procedimentos odontológicos, tais como o remanescente de guta-percha neste relato de caso pericial, são extremamente valiosos no processo de identificação humana

Forensic Dentistry is the specialty responsible for clarifying administrative or judicial demands from different spheres. In the criminal sphere, the human identification process encompasses a set of procedures that aim to individualize a person and, in several situations, and Forensic Dentistry stands out as an important method in human identification. The objective was to present a case report in which the presence of a gutta-percha remnant was important in the human identification process. After necroscopic examination and delivery of the dental records, the information received from the suspect was compared with that collected in the post mortem examination. Through this comparison, it was verified that there were coincident points that allowed the positive identification of the victim, especially the presence, both in the ante-mortem and in the post-mortem examination, of a gutta-percha remnant surrounded by bone scar tissue in the tooth region 21. Materials used in dental procedures, such as the gutta-percha remnant in this forensic case report, are extremely valuable in the human identification process

Interpersonal violence in a city of Paraná: a study about the epidemiological profile of victims and characterization of dental trauma / Violência interpessoal em cidade paranaense: um estudo do perfil epidemiológico das vítimas e caracterização dos traumas dentais

The socioeconomic context and population vulnerability are directly associated with violence in the country. In Brazil, the Criminal Code provides the illicit act and punishes the aggressor who offends the physical aggression from a person. Interpersonal violence is an illegal act and is associated with the vulnerability of victims. Therefore, the study of the epidemiological profile of victims of interpersonal violence is needed to alert the population about their susceptibility. The present study aimed to design the epidemiological profile of victims of bodily injury from interpersonal violence in the region of Maringá, in the state of Paraná, and to study the characterization of dental injuries in terms of permanent weakness and deformity. Four thousand nine hundred sixty-two reports performed between 2018 and 2020 were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Data collected included: sex, age, marital status, the region affected by the bodily injury, type of dental trauma, and responses to "weakness" or/and "permanent deformity". During the period studied, there was a prevalence of female victims (57.8%), white skin color (80.2%), aged between 21 and 30 years (24.9%), single (54.9%), and the most affected region was the upper limbs (32.1%). Regarding bodily injuries with dental involvement, 67 cases were reported, male victims were prevalent (60.3%), and dental fracture was highlighted with 54.4% of examined injuries.The implementation of the Forensic Dentistry Centre took place in August 2019 at the Medico-Legal Institute of Maringá. Also, with the interruption of expert activities in 2020 - due to the COVID-19 pandemic ­ relevant outcomes regarding permanent weakness were observed. The epidemiological profile of victims is characterized by the female sex, white skin color, the age group from 21 to 30 years old, and singles. Regarding dental trauma, male victims, and dental fractures were prevalent. Furthermore, there was an increase in the classification of "permanent weakness", as well as a slight increase in cases of "further assessment required" for permanent deformity (AU).

O contexto socioeconômico e a vulnerabilidade da população estão diretamente associados à violência no país. No Brasil, o Código Penal (CP) prevê o ato ilícito e pune o agressor que atentar contra a integridade física de outrem. A violência interpessoal constitui um ato ilícito e está associada à vulnerabilidade das vítimas. Sendo assim, o estudo do perfil epidemiológico de vítimas de violência interpessoal se faz necessário para alertar a população quanto à suscetibilidade dessas. O presente estudo objetivou traçar o perfil epidemiológico de vítimas de lesão corporal por violência interpessoal na região de Maringá, no estado do Paraná, e estudar a caracterização das lesões dentais quanto à debilidade e deformidade permanente. Foram analisados 4.962 laudos pertencentes aos anos de 2018 a 2020 por estatística descritiva. Dados coletados incluíram: sexo, idade, estado civil, região afetada pela lesão corporal, tipo de trauma dental e respostas para "debilidade" ou/e "deformidade permanente". Durante o período estudado, houve prevalência de vítimas do sexo feminino (57,8%), cor de pele branca (80,2%), com idade entre 21 e 30 anos (24,9%), solteiros (54,9%), e a região mais afetada foi a dos membros superiores (32,1%). Em relação às lesões corporais com envolvimento dental, 67 casos foram relatados. Vítimas do sexo masculino foram prevalentes (60,3%) e a fratura do elemento obteve destaque com 54,4% das lesões periciadas. A implementação do Núcleo de Odontologia Legal ocorreu em agosto de 2019 e, ainda com a interrupção das atividades periciais no ano de 2020 ­ devido à pandemia da COVID-19 ­ resultados quanto à debilidade permanente foram evidentes. O perfil epidemiológico das vítimas é caracterizado pelo sexo feminino, cor de pele branca, faixa etária de 21 a 30 anos e solteiros. Quanto aos traumas dentais, vítimas do sexo masculino e fraturas dentais foram prevalentes. Além disso, houve um aumento na classificação de "debilidade permanente", bem como um leve aumento nos casos de "necessidade de avaliação complementar" para deformidade permanente (AU).

Ear shut and Dentistry: ethical and legal approach / Ear shut e Odontologia: abordagem ética e legal

Introduction: As a health science, dentistry seeks to raise self-esteem and improve patients' quality of life. However, the emergence of the aesthetic procedure "ear shut," which proposes correcting protruding ears without surgery, has raised ethical and legal doubts in the dental profession, especially concerning the limits of professional activity. Objective: To conduct a survey of the laws, norms, and resolutions on the area of performance of dental surgeons, as well as to discuss the limits and consequences of their extrapolation from the perspective of the procedure propagated as "ear shut." Method: A search was carried out for administrative norms on the Federal Council of Dentistry (CFO) websites and the Federal Council of Medicine and legal provisions on the Portal da Legislação website. Results: In the civil sphere, the disclosure of procedures such as the "ear shut" can characterize a promise of result and lead to judicial accountability. Exceeding professional boundaries constitutes an illegal exercise and a crime under the Brazilian Penal Code. In addition to not covering the area of clinical practice of dentists, at the administrative level, CFO Resolutions No. 198/2019 and No. 230/2020 emphasize that ear procedures are not part of the scope of procedures relevant to Dentistry and may lead to ethical infractions and consequent administrative proceedings. Conclusion: At present, based on the skills, prohibitions, rights, and duties of dentists, it can be stated that performing the "ear shut" by these professionals confronts civil, criminal, and administrative obligations.

Introdução: Como ciência da saúde, a Odontologia busca elevar a autoestima e melhorar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes. Entretanto, o surgimento do procedimento estético "ear shut", que propõe a correção da orelha em abano sem cirurgia, gerou dúvidas de ordem ética e legal na classe odontológica, sobretudo no que diz respeito aos limites de atuação profissional. Objetivo: Realizar o levantamento das leis, normativas e resoluções sobre a área de atuação dos cirurgiões-dentistas, bem como discutir os limites e as consequências de sua extrapolação sob a perspectiva do procedimento propagado como "ear shut". Método: Foi realizada uma busca de normas administrativas nos sites do Conselho Federal de Odontologia (CFO) e do Conselho Federal de Medicina, bem como de dispositivos legais no site Portal da Legislação. Resultados: Em âmbito cível, a divulgação de procedimentos como o "ear shut" pode caracterizar promessa de resultado e levar à responsabilização judicial. Ultrapassar os limites profissionais constitui exercício ilícito e constitui crime segundo o Código Penal Brasileiro. Além de não abranger a área de atuação clínica dos cirurgiões-dentistas, no âmbito administrativo, as Resoluções do CFO N° 198/2019 e N° 230/2020 enfatizam que procedimentos na orelha não compõem o escopo de procedimentos pertinentes à Odontologia, podendo levar a infrações éticas e consequente processo administrativo. Conclusão: No momento atual, com base nas competências, vedações, direitos e deveres dos cirurgiões-dentistas, pode-se afirmar que a realização do "ear shut" por estes profissionais confronta obrigações de ordem cível, penal e administrativa.

Teleodontologia e Resolução CFO-226/2020: aspectos éticos e legais frente à pandemia de COVID-19 / Teledentistry and Resolution CFO-226/2020: ethical and legal aspects facing the COVID-19 pandemic

A Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) decretou, em março de 2020, o estado de pandemia decorrente do novo Coronavírus (SARS-CoV-2). Nesse cenário, a teleodontologia se destacou como mecanismo de promoção da assistência odontológica durante o período mais crítico da pandemia. O presente estudo tem como objetivo apresentar, por meio de uma revisão de literatura, os aspectos éticos e legais pertinentes ao uso da teleodontologia no Brasil. A teleodontologia já era utilizada no Brasil antes da pandemia de COVID-19, porém não era regulamentada pelo Conselho Federal de Odontologia (CFO). Em 4 de junho de 2020 foi promulgada a Resolução CFO-226/2020, regulamentando o exercício da teleodontologia no país. A Resolução apresenta impasses e discussões quanto aos meios de assistência e suas vedações referentes a atuação dos profissionais. Conclui-se que a Resolução CFO-226/2020 reafirmou princípios éticos e legais quanto a prática odontológica descrita nas principais normas da classe e que, apesar das vedações apresentadas, a mesma se configura como um guia específico para realização das atividades laborais odontológicas referentes à teleodontologia

In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the state of pandemic caused by the new Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). In this scenario, teledentistry stood out as a mechanism for promoting dental care during the most critical period of the pandemic. This study aims to present, through a literature review, the ethical and legal aspects relevant to its use in Brazil. Teledentistry was already available in Brazil before the COVID-19 pandemic, but the Federal Council of Dentistry (CFO) did not regulate it. On June 4th, 2020, the Resolution CFO-226/2020 was drafted, which regulated the exercise of teledentistry in the Brazilian territory. The resolution presents impasses and discussions regarding the means of assistance and its prohibitions referring the performance of professionals. It is concluded that the resolution CFO-226/2020 reaffirmed ethical and legal principles respected by the dental practice described in the main norms of the class. Moreover, despite the prohibitions presented in Resolution CFO-226/2020, it is configured as a specific guide for carrying out dental work activities related to teledentistry

Dental mapractice litigance in the city of São Paulo (SP), Brazil

The relationship between patients and dentists today is more worn and less based on trust, which can lead to high rates of lawsuits related to civil liability and dental malpractice. Aim: verify if there has been an increase in the number of lawsuits related to questioned dental treatments, and against dentists registered in the city of São Paulo (SP), Brazil, from 2012 to 2017. Methods: We outlined an overview based on the list from the São Paulo Council of Dentistry containing 30,238 registered dentists in the city of São Paulo, and searched for lawsuits on the public base of the São Paulo State Court's. Results: The search, after the inclusion and exclusion criteria, found 247 lawsuits, with dental implants as the most involved specialty. The total indemnities requested ranged from R$ 227.42 to R$ 937,000.00, but no indemnity granted exceeded the amount of R$ 100,000.00. Conclusion: According to the analysis of cases, there is a progressive increase in the number of civil liability lawsuits against dentists involving dental malpractice litigance

A odontologia legal no contexto de ensino da FORP-USP: um levantamento histórico / Forensic Dentistry in the teaching context of the School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto ­ University of São Paulo: a historical survey

A Odontologia Legal (OL) é uma especialidade da Odontologia que teve seu surgimento associado a anseios sociais relacionados à identificação humana. Logo se percebeu a contribuição que poderia fornecer no atuar profissional, especialmente se inserida no currículo acadêmico. Esse artigo teve como objetivo realizar um levantamento histórico dos componentes curriculares da área de OL da Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo (FORP-USP) e analisar o desenvolvimento de suas ementas disciplinares. Foi realizada uma pesquisa documental com abordagem descritiva e qualitativa dos dados da estrutura curricular do curso de graduação da referida instituição entre os anos de 1962 e 2019. Assim, a coleta das informações deu-se utilizando livros e sítios eletrônicos que continham as ementas disciplinares. A disciplina de OL esteve presente no ensino da FORP-USP desde que se tem registro (1962), quando era denominada "Odontologia Legal, Legislação e Ética Profissional". A área manteve-se vigente, apesar das modificações que culminaram na criação e extinção de determinadas disciplinas. A Odontologia Legal é fundamental na orientação das condutas éticas e legais da profissão e, dessa forma, esteve presente no curso de graduação da FORP-USP desde os primórdios da instituição, e vem sendo trabalhada e desenvolvida com o passar dos anos. Conclui-se que foi possível determinar a trajetória, cronologia e arranjo das alterações das disciplinas relacionadas com a área de Odontologia Legal da FORP-USP a partir de 1962, o que permitiu observar a evolução da área, sobretudo no que diz respeito às metodologias e conteúdos, bem como a diversificação de material bibliográfico utilizado no ensino.

Sexual dimorphism applying the mandibular canine index in a Brazilian sample: a pilot study

This research study aimed at applying the morphometric quantification of the canine index for sexual dimorphism in a Brazilian sample. This was an observational study and the convenience sample consisted of 90 adult participants (45 male subjects and 45 female subjects), aging from 18 to 35 years. With the aidof a digital caliper, the intraoral mesiodistal measurement of the permanent mandibular right canine (MD43) and the intercanine distance (IC) were taken by three examiners. The measurements were applied to the mandibular canine index formula to estimate sex based on the morphometric features of human canines. The applicability of this approach for sexual dimorphism was assessed based on the mandibular canine index (MCI) calculated by the formula. The MCI was higher in male than in female subjects. In the total sample, the MCI overall mean accuracy rate for sexual dimorphism was 52.22%. In male subjects, the MCI was able to properly differentiate sex in 82.22% of the sample, while in female subjects the accuracy rate decreased to 22.22%. These results call the attention to the careful use of MCI especially for Forensic Anthropology. In particular, the accuracy of the method was close to the random of a sample that contained both sexes. Thus, the MCI should not be used as the only tool for sexual dimorphism.

Evaluation measure of 3d volumetry of masseter hypertrophy: association with modalities of imaging / Avaliação de medidas volumétricas 3D da hipertrofia massetérica em dois casos: associação com modalidades de imagem

Abstract Masseteric hypertrophy is a benign condition, asymptomatic and rare, characterized by the excessive development of the masseter muscle, which usually results in aesthetic complaints. The imaging exams for differential diagnosis of pathologies in the parotid-masseteric region is always recommended. This work aims the imaging characterization of masseteric hypertrophy through the report of two clinical cases combining different imaging modalities: panoramic radiography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, ultrasonography and 3D volumetry. Two male subjects with no family history of masseteric hypertrophy were referred to a diagnostic center in dentomaxillofacial radiology due to an increase in bilateral facial volume in the masseteric region. Images of the panoramic radiography showed an increase of the bilateral mandibular angle in both cases. Using computerized tomography, bilateral masseter muscle hypertrophy was demonstrated in the patients, and magnetic resonance scan and ultrasound examination were performed for better visualization and muscle measurement. 3D volumetry assessment of musculature showed as additional tool to evaluate the status of the masseter muscles in patients with Masseteric hypertrophy. Therefore, the association of imaging examinations allowed to perform the imaging characterization of masseteric hypertrophy with presence of bone exostosis.

RESUMO A hipertrofia massetérica é uma condição benigna, assintomática e rara, caracterizada pelo desenvolvimento excessivo do músculo masseter, que geralmente resulta em queixas estéticas. São sempre recomendados os exames de imagem para diagnóstico diferencial de patologias na região parotídea-massetérica. Neste trabalho objetiva-se a caracterização da imagem da hipertrofia massetérica através do relato de dois casos clínicos combinando diferentes modalidades de imagem: radiografia panorâmica, ressonância magnética, tomografia computadorizada, ultra-sonografia e volumetria 3D. Dois indivíduos do sexo masculino sem história familiar de hipertrofia massetérica foram encaminhados para um centro de diagnóstico em radiologia dentomaxilofacial devido ao aumento do volume facial bilateral na região massetérica. As imagens da radiografia panorâmica mostraram um aumento do ângulo mandibular bilateral em ambos os casos. Usando tomografia computadorizada, foi demonstrada hipertrofia muscular massetérica bilateral nos pacientes, e a varredura de ressonância magnética e ultra-sonografia foram realizadas para melhor visualização e medição. A avaliação volumétrica em 3D da musculatura mostrou-se como ferramenta adicional para avaliar o estado dos músculos masseteros em pacientes com hipertrofia massetérica. Portanto, a associação de exames de imagem permitiu realizar a caracterização da imagem da hipertrofia massetérica com presença de exostose óssea.

A importância da documentação odontológica de usuários de drogas institucionalizados para a identificação post mortem: relato de caso / The importance of dental records of institutionalized drug users to post mortem identification: case report

Introdução: No Brasil, houve aumento do número de usuários de drogas, os quais possuem maior risco de morte devido ao confronto com gangues rivais e com a polícia. Muitas vezes, a identificação destas vítimas se faz necessária pelo arco dental, que será possível caso existam registros odontológicos. Objetivo: Demonstrar a importância legal dos registros odontológicos para a identificação de indivíduos com histórico de uso de drogas e que estão acolhidos institucionalmente. Relato de caso: um cadáver do sexo masculino, esqueletizado, foi encaminhado ao Instituto de Medicina Legal (IML) Gerardo Vasconcelos, em Teresina-PI, para exame de identificação humana e determinação da causa da morte. Junto com a ossada, foram encontrados documentos pessoais compatíveis com histórico descrito pelos familiares de uma pessoa do sexo masculino de 19 anos de idade, usuário de drogas, que se encontrou institucionalizado em comunidade terapêutica para tratamento e recuperação. Foram disponibilizados um atestado de saúde bucal usado para admissão na comunidade terapêutica e ficha odontológica com odontograma, o que possibilitou o processo de identificação pelos arcos dentais. Após o confronto odontolegal entre dados ante mortem (AM) e post mortem (PM), a identificação foi realizada com sucesso. A idade foi estimada entre 18 e 30 anos, de acordo com estágios de mineralização dos terceiros molares e suturas cranianas. As lesões ósseas encontradas evidenciam a hipótese de homicídio. Conclusão: A documentação odontológica produzida com finalidade clínica e administrativa de indivíduos usuários de droga e que necessitam de tratamento institucionalizado demonstrou ser eficiente na identificação odontológica pós-morte.

Introduction: In Brazil, there was an increase in the number of drug users, which have a greater risk of death due to confrontation with rival gangs and the police. Often, the identification of these victims is required by the dental arch, which will be possible if there are dental records. Objective: To demonstrate the legal importance of dental records for the identification of individuals with a history of drug use and who are institutionally welcomed. Case report: a skeletonized male cadaver was sent to the Institute of Legal Medicine (IML) Gerardo Vasconcelos, in Teresina-PI, for examination of human identification and determination of the cause of death. Along with the human skeleton, were found personal documents compatible with the history described by the relatives of a 19-year-old male drug user, who was institutionalized in a therapeutic community for treatment and recovery. An oral health certificate was used for admission to the therapeutic community and dental record with odontogram, which allowed the process of identification by the dental arches. After the forensic dental confrontation between ante mortem (AM) and post mortem (PM) data, the identification was successfully performed. Age was estimated between 18 and 30 years, according to stages of mineralization of third molars and cranial sutures. The bone lesions found evidenced the hypothesis of homicide. Conclusion: The dental documentation produced with clinical and administrative purposes of individuals who use drugs and who need institutionalized treatment proved to be efficient in the post mortem dental identification.

Assessment of the opening diameter of the incisive foramen as a parameter for gender and age estimation / Avaliação do diâmetro de abertura do forame incisivo como parâmetro de estimativa de sexo e idade

Objective: To analyse the opening diameter of incisive foramen as a parameter for gender and age estimation by using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Material and Methods: After approval by the local research ethics committee, CBCT images were obtained from the dental database of a diagnostic centre and then selected. Images suggesting presence of periapical lesions and periodontal changes were excluded, as well as those of patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, with trauma to the mid-facial third, with cleft/lip palate, cranial or syndromic morphological changes, or even absence of one of the upper incisors. The images of male and female patients were distributed according to age groups (i.e. 10-30 years, 31-50 years, and 51 years or older) and then assessed twice and independently by three surgeon-dentists with experience in radiology by means of the XoranCat® software. The resulting data were tabulated and statistically analysed by using the SAS® software (version 2003) ­ PROC GLM for mixed generalised models ­ and Tukey's test for comparison of the mean values at 5% significance level. Results: Considering the methodology used, the results have demonstrated no statistically significant difference in the method for gender estimation. However, it was observed that there was a gradual increase in the mean values as the age advances in the majority of the age groups for both males and females, with a statistically significant difference (P<0.05) regarding age estimation. Conclusion: The use of incisive foramen as a gender parameter has had a limited forensic value, but it is an innovative approach in the process of age estimation. (AU)

Objetivo: Analisar o diâmetro de abertura do forame incisivo como parâmetro de estimativa de sexo e idade utilizando exames de Tomografia Computadorizada de Feixe Cônico (TCFC). Material e Métodos: Mediante aprovação do Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa, selecionaram se exames de TCFC originários do arquivo odontológico de um determinado centro diagnóstico. Foram excluídos os exames que sugerissem presença de lesões periapicais, alterações periodontais, bem como de pacientes sob tratamento ortodôntico, com trauma no terço médio facial, com fissuras palatinas, alterações morfológicas em crânio ou sindrômicos, ou ainda ausência de qualquer um dos dentes incisivos superiores. As imagens foram distribuídas segundo faixa etária de 10 a 30 anos, 31 a 50 anos, 51 anos ou mais, de ambos os sexos, e avaliadas duas vezes por três Cirurgiões-Dentistas radiologistas de forma independente utilizando o software XoranCat®. Os dados foram tabulados e analisados estatisticamente através do Software SAS®, versão 2003, por meio do PROC GLM, modelos mistos generalizados e o teste de comparação de médias foi o Tukey a 5% de significância. Resultados: Considerando a metodologia adotada, os resultados não demonstraram diferença estatisticamente significante que pudesse sugerir um método de estimativa de sexo. Porém, percebeu-se que houve um aumento gradativo das médias encontradas conforme o avanço da idade para ambos os sexos na maioria dos grupos, além de uma diferença estatisticamente significante (p<0,05) em relação à estimativa de idade. Conclusão: A utilização do forame incisivo como parâmetro dimórfico entre sexos demonstrou limitado valor forense, mas apresenta uma proposta inovadora no processo de estimativa de idade. (AU)