Forensic Dentistry:
Hrvoje Brkić, DDM, MSc, PhD, Full professor

brkic@sfzg.hr 

www.hrvojebrkic.net

INTRODUCTION
In this course students are introduced to the basics of Forensic Dentistry that they will need in their dental practice. Students study techniques of identification of human body, i.e. the importance of dental documentation in determining identity. The importance is also given to new techniques, such as DNA analysis from teeth tissues and PCR technique. They are also introduced to the qualification of trauma of the stomatognathic system, and application of law in case of dentist`s malpractices.

PRIMARY AIMS
Students are introduced to basic procedures in identification of a human body based on hereditary and acquired dental characteristics.
Introduction to the effects of law in dental practice (in the Republic of Croatia).
 

MAIN OBJECTIVES

• dental identification of human body
• isolation of DNA from dental tissues
• analysis of bitemark on human body
• qualifying of injuries to stomatognathic system
• pointing out dentist`s malpractice and neglect that can jeopardize patient`s health
• application of law in the Republic of Croatia in cases of dentist`s malpractices

HOURS IN THE CURRICULUM
The course includes the total of 30 hours in the IX semester. Fifteen hours of lectures and fifteen hours of exercises. Students attend part of the classes (2+2) at the Department of Forensic Medicine and Criminology within the Medical School of the University of Zagreb.

METHODS OF LEARNING / TEACHING
An academic lecture hour lasts for 45 minutes. The Teacher`s lecture lasts for about 35 – 40 minutes whereas the rest of time is left to students for questions and discussion, as well as for the registering of class attendance. Exericise classes are organised in block classes (90-minute) for groups of 15 to 18 students. Every exercise consists of short introduction (15 minutes), whereas for the rest of the time students work independently on their tasks under the supervision od their teacher. Technical aids by teacher are: slides, transparencies, LCD and video presentation.

ASSESSMENT METHODS
The examination consists of oral answers to questions read from pre-prepared cards.