Unidentified: Simulation-based education in forensic odontology

J Forensic Leg Med. 2025 Jul:113:102865. doi: 10.1016/j.jflm.2025.102865. Epub 2025 Apr 1.

Abstract

We report on a prototype computer-simulated training programme in dental autopsy entitled Unidentified. This was developed to offer a simulated real-world experience of conducting dental identification procedures as a forensic odontologist. Unidentified is a tool developed as a proof of concept for a single case from an air crash disaster with a running time of 40 min to an hour. Standards of a disaster victim identification (DVI) guide and forms were followed. The game development platform 'Unreal Engine' was used by collaborators from a gaming enterprise and academic contributors from a leading institution in game development. Accessibility, practicality, and affordability are advantages of the training. Further developments will make ante-mortem and reconciliation phases available and expand the exercise to mass casualty incidents.

Keywords: Computer simulator; Dental autopsy; Dental identification; Forensic odontology; Human identification; Simulated training.

MeSH terms

  • Accidents, Aviation
  • Computer Simulation*
  • Forensic Dentistry* / education
  • Humans
  • Mass Casualty Incidents
  • Simulation Training*