What is the primary focus of a forensic odontologist?

The primary focus of a forensic odontologist involves evaluating and handling dental evidence. This specialization is essential in identifying human remains through dental records, as teeth can often withstand severe conditions that may destroy other forms of identification. Forensic odontologists examine bite marks, dental features, and can also provide insights on the age and health of individuals based on their dental status.

In contrast, analyzing handwriting samples, conducting blood stain pattern analysis, and assessing weapon traces fall within the purview of other forensic disciplines. For example, handwriting analysis is handled by forensic document examiners, blood stain pattern analysis is a task for crime scene analysts or specialists in blood spatter, and weapons analyses would be conducted by ballistics experts or firearms examiners. Thus, while these other roles are critical in forensic investigations, they do not align with the specific expertise and responsibilities of forensic odontologists.