Bite-marks in Child Abuse: A Pediatric Dentist's Perspective

Vivek Mehta; Anupma Raheja; Harneet Kaur

doi:10.53275/inapfo.2231-1092-2231-15721017

Vivek Mehta Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
Anupma Raheja Private Practitioner, Prosthodontics and Crown and Bridge, New Delhi
Harneet Kaur Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Faculty of Dentistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi

DOI: https://doi.org/10.53275/inapfo.2231-1092-2231-15721017

Keywords: Bite marks, child abuse, detection, forensic, pediatric dentist.

Abstract

The scope of pediatric dentistry is immense, and the role of a pediatric dentist is pertinent in abuse detection in children. They must safeguard the protection of children. Bite mark injuries in children represent child abuse in the majority of cases. Early detection and reporting of such cases can have a lasting impact on the lives of many children. With an attempt to make pediatric dental professionals around the globe aware of the forensic aspect of the specialty, the article suggests the guidelines and protocols required to check and report child abuse.