By

C. Michael Bowers, Associate Clinical Professor, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, Deputy Medical Examiner, Ventura, CA, USA

Book Description

Forensic Dental Evidence, Second Edition provides the base for investigating, identifying and processing forensic dental evidence. This edition leads off with an explanation of dental nomenclature and quickly advances to the newest developments in trace dental evidence, methods for trace DNA evidence, and mass disaster cases (9/11, Bali, Thailand). Bowers covers how digital imaging of evidence has assisted in cases where incarcerated individuals have been exonerated. This volume provides the necessary tools and practical suggestions for forensic scientists and investigators charged with analysis of a crime scene. With an emphasis on the proper use of scientific methods, knowledge of analytical limitations and the necessity for team training, planning and multi-level management, Forensic Dental Evidence, Second Edition provides invaluable practical information. Contemporary cases and interesting historic cases, including an Egyptian mummy and Adolf Hitler, demonstrate relevant case methods.

This is a must-have resource for forensic scientists and law enforcement involved in processing crime scenes and conducting criminal investigations. This book will serve as an excellent reference for medical examiners, forensic pathologists, defense and prosecuting attorneys and crime scene investigators who need the latest in forensic information.

* Contributions by internationally recognized and experienced forensic experts cover missing persons cases and mass disaster cases from around the world

* Contains over 200 full-color photographs of crime scene evidence, human identification cases and bitemark details, also included on a companion Web site

* Includes many new exoneration cases derived from the Editor’s work with the Innocence Project

Editorial Reviews

Review

“This book, really more impressively a treatise, leaves no (dental) stone unturned in explicating the history, the savoir faire, the investigative potential, the litigation and the research firmly establishing the foundations of dental identifications in the firmament of the forensic sciences.” – James E Starrs, Professor Emeritus of Law & Forensic Sciences, The George Washington University

“Forensic Dental Evidence: An Investigator’s Handbook is a must-read for all participants in the criminal justice system–judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, investigators and police, to name a few–as well as all forensic odontologists. C. Michael Bowers, one of the world’s most renowned forensic dental experts, draws upon a wealth of his expertise and that of others to put forth in a highly accessible book information and guidance that will surely prevent misidentifications and wrongful convictions.” – Maurice Possley, Northern California Innocence Project at Santa Clara University Law School, Santa Clara, CA; Pulitzer-Prize winning journalist “…this book comprehensively covers concepts and protocols necessary for criminal investigation involving dental evidence and will be of educational value and interest to many categories of reader. It is practical, up to date, informative, well-illustrated and appropriately cautionary.”– Judith A Hinchliffe, Independent Forensic Odontologist, New Zealand in Journal of Forensic Odonto-Stomatology (2011)

Customer Reviews

The 2nd ed is a worthy additon to any Investigator’s collectionOctober 19, 2010

As a Legal Consultant of General Dentistry, I was a bit concerned as to just how deep I wanted to go in to Forensic Odontology. I have already collected several books on the subject of forensics without being able to finish any of them from cover to cover.

But rather Dr. Bower’s book draws you in even deeper with each chapter. If I told you that it would make a GREAT Textbook, you might think that I mean it’s boring, but this is certainly not the case. The book is clear, concise, well organized, and very easy to reference with a usable sub-content index. Despite it’s condensed type, the text makes the book just about the right size for course work. Anything bigger would rule out using the book while doing field work, or when transporting it in your brief case.

I really have to say that I just can’t put this book down. I often use it as my first source of verifying information that receive. It have been a long time since I last want to say this, but the 2nd edition makes learning fun again. And I am sure that anyone not familiar with Dentistry would feel the same.

For those who have the 1st Edition:
The recent reorganization of the 2nd edition makes it much more enjoyable to read,
and therefore a worth while upgrade from the 1st edition.

Wayne J Yee, DDS
President,
American Association of Dental Legal Consultants