Role of the odontologist in the investigation of domestic violence, neglect of the vulnerable, and institutional violence and torture

Dentists have a significant role to identify and intervene in domestic abuse, violence, and neglect of the vulnerable. Over 75% of abuse victims have injuries to the head, face, mouth, and neck and so dentists are often first responders. However, under recognition and under reporting of domestic abuse and violence is a particular problem among health care providers, including dentists. Forensic odontologists are well suited to lead the training of their clinical colleagues in the various cultural determinants to abuse, including etiology, symptoms, physical signs of abuse, as well as appropriate reporting. In addition to leading their colleagues, forensic odontologists play an essential role as part of multidisciplinary teams that investigate conflict situations, serious crimes, exploitation of disadvantaged populations, and other serious violence and abuse. Whether in conflict zones or within private families, early detection and intervention is important to prevent establishment of abusive social and family patterns that perpetuate a “cycle of violence”. This is especially true in young children, the most vulnerable population of all. To support this theory of early and effective intervention, this paper comprehensively reviews the most recent evidence concerning the etiology, detection, and prevention of violence and abuse.