Denture marking: a mandatory procedure to aid forensic identification

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the significance of placing identification marks on dentures.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews the legislation with regard to denture marking in certain countries, various methods of denture marking and describes a simple, inexpensive, paper‐based labelling system.

Findings

Various methods have been proposed for denture marking but it is important to use a method that is simple, practical, affordable and universally acceptable.

Practical implications

The identification of unknown or missing persons by means of denture marking is a very successful method of identification in forensic investigation. It is also useful for patients residing in hospitals and community homes where dentures could be misplaced, particularly during cleaning by personnel where there is a chance of loss or mix‐up. The importance of denture marking should be emphasized by all law‐enforcing authorities and should be promoted among all dentists, towards making it a compulsory routine dental procedure throughout the world.

Originality/value

In Malaysia, denture marking, as recommended by its Ministry of Health, uses a unique coding system which can readily provide information about the wearer in whichever part of the world the person is found. The method applied is simple, practical and affordable and can easily be adapted by others. It can be of great value during times of crisis.

Citation

John, J., Mani, S.A., Nambiar, P. and Sulaiman, H. (2011), "Denture marking: a mandatory procedure to aid forensic identification", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 20 No. 4, pp. 378-385. https://doi.org/10.1108/09653561111161707