"Morte-Gauge" a CPD Programme on Forensic Odontology

Forensic dentistry refers to the application of dental knowledge in the delivery of justice either through criminal or civil laws. Forensic dentists help investigating agencies in identification of human remains and in determining age, gender etc.

The Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education conducted “Morte Gauge” a continuing professional development programme in forensic dentistry which aimed to increase the awareness of medical and dental professionals in medico-legal situations. The program held on 24^th August 2016 at MCODS, Attavar was presided by Dr. Dilip G. Naik, Dean, MCODS, Mangalore. Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim, Founding Dean, Faculty of Dentistry, UiTM Malaysia was the Guest of Honour.

The lecture by Dr. Mohd Fadhli bin Khamis (Deputy Dean, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Sains Malaysia, and renowned Forensic Odontologist, PhD Australia) on disaster victim identification (DVI) was titled ‘OP Reunites’ and provided an insight into the role of dental records in victim identification and verification. The talk focused on his work in identification of victims of the Vietnam War who were temporarily laid to rest in Malaysia. 

Dr. Shailja Chatterjee (Professor, Dept. of Oral Pathology, MM College of Dental Sciences, MM University, Mullana, Haryana) elaborated on the role of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) in the field of Forensic Dentistry.

The interactive Quiz on trivia and technicalities of Forensic Odontology was conducted by Dr. Karen Boaz, Professor and Head, Dept. of Oral Pathology, MCODS, Mangalore.

The program was well received by the medical and dental fraternity alike thus contributing to its grand success.