In forensic odontology, what is the purpose of overlaying postmortem radiographs with antemortem images?

• A. To estimate age from dental wear
• B. To assess concordance of tooth positions, restorations, and unique dental features
• C. To determine blood type from dental pulp
• D. To measure bone density around the jaw

Answer: (B)

Overlaying postmortem radiographs with antemortem images is used to directly compare the decedent’s dental features with records from when they were alive. By aligning the images, you can see if tooth positions, restorations (like fillings, crowns, bridges), endodontic work, and other unique dental traits match between the two sets of images. Dental patterns and restorations tend to be highly individual and persist over time, so this concordance provides strong evidence for identifying the person. The approach isn’t about estimating age from wear, determining blood type from pulp, or measuring bone density around the jaw.