The anatomy of teeth, terminology, and forensic role of teeth in identification are reviewed. The function and life cycle of teeth is explained, and age related changes and attrition are described. Sex differences in size of teeth; cusps, grooves, and roots; and palate form are delineated. Racial/ethnic variations in dentition also are described.

Atypical variations that may provide data on the individuals' medical and environmental history are discussed, including irregularities in incisors and molars, supernumerary teeth, anodontia, dilaceration, dentin defects, enamel irregularities, impacted teeth and abnormalities in placement, and transposition. Manmade variations then are described including wear resulting from methods of food preparation or holding implements, wear caused by personal habits, staining, ritual or cosmetic mutilations, and surgical manipulation. Pathology of teeth and peridontal structures also is reviewed.

Three levels of forensic dental examination are then discussed that use information obtained from relatives, from dental records, and from xray and microscopic techniques. Glossary, folk and obsolete dental terminology, and tables of dental measurements are included. Name and subject indexes and approximately 130 references.