Forensic odontology is the proper handling, examination and evaluation of dental evidence, which will be then presented in the interest of justice. The evidence that may be derived from teeth is the age (in children) and identification of the person to whom the teeth belong. This is done using dental records including radiographs, ante-mortem (prior to death) and post-mortem (after death) photographs and DNA. The other type of evidence is that of bite marks, left on either the victim (by the attacker), the perpetrator (from the victim of an attack), or on an object found at the crime scene. Bite marks are often found on children who are abused.
Veterinary dentistry is the field of dentistry applied to the care of animals. It is the art and science of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions, diseases, and disorders of the oral cavity, the Maxillo-facial region, and its associated structures as it relates to animals. It is important to examine the whole animal, even when the primary complaint is the mouth. Some dental diseases may be the result of a systemic problem and some may result in systemic complications. In all cases, dental procedures require a general anesthetic so it is important to establish the cardiovascular and respiratory status and canine and feline physiological values of the patient to avoid risks or complications.
Good dental or oral care is important to sustaining healthy teeth, gums and tongue. Oral problems comprising bad breath, dry mouth, canker or cold sores, TMD, tooth decay, or thrush are all treatable with proper diagnosis and care. Oral health is necessary to general health and well-being at every stage of life. A healthy mouth enables not only nourishment of the physical body, but also improves social interaction and promotes self-esteem and feelings of well-being.
Geriodontics is the delivery of dental care to older adults involving the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of problems associated with normal aging and age-related diseases as part of an interdisciplinary team with other health care professionals. The dental diseases that the elderly are particularly prone to are root caries, attrition, periodontal disease, missing teeth because of earlier neglect, edentulism, poor quality of alveolar ridges, ill-fitting dentures, mucosal lesions, oral ulceration, dry mouth (xerostomia), oral cancers, and rampant caries.
Pediatric dentistry is the dental field that provides primary and widespread oral health care for children from infancy through youth and patients with special health care needs. Pediatric dental treatment and disease avoidance is provided for children up to 14 years of age, with special services for newborns and infants. Pediatric dentists encourage the dental health of children as well as help as educational resources for parents. Early detection is necessary to maintain oral health, modify unusual habits, and treat as needed and as simply as possible.