What does the term "antemortem dental records" specifically indicate?
A Dental records documented before death for identification purposes
B Postmortem dental findings collected during autopsy
C Radiographic images taken after death for forensic analysis
D Dental impressions taken for prosthodontic treatment
Solution
Correct Answer: Option A
- The term "antemortem dental records" refers to any dental documentation collected while the person was alive.
- These records include charts, radiographs, and notes used to establish identity in forensic investigations by comparing them with postmortem findings.
- This is crucial because pre-death records provide baseline dental information, allowing for accurate identification after death.
- Options describing postmortem data or treatment-related impressions do not fit the forensic definition of antemortem records.
Reference: Forensic Odontology, 2nd Edition, Chapter 3 - Dental Identification, pp. 45-47