Awareness of Forensic Odontology among Interns and Postgraduate Students at the University of Gurgaon, India

Background: Forensic odontology is an essential branch of forensic sciences. The dental practitioner’s understanding of forensic odontology is necessary, as the pulp of the tooth is protected by hard tissue which gives an accurate source of recognition of the victim or the suspect with proper identification, investigation and assessment of dental evidence, as well as preservation of dental findings. Hence, this study is conducted to analyse the awareness of basic knowledge and interest in forensic odontology among Interns and postgraduate students at the university.
Methods: This is an institution-based study conducted among 150 students including interns and postgraduate students. A validated customized questionnaire on knowledge and attitude was given to the participants. The data was tabulated and statistically analysed.
Results: The present study showed postgraduates have more knowledge and awareness of the importance and understanding of forensic odontology as a part of forensic sciences, whereas interns lack interest and knowledge.
Conclusion: This study concludes that forensic odontology should be effectively included as a separate subject in the academic curriculum to encourage students towards better understanding and as a field of interest.