Historical Aspects of the Development of Forensic Odontology in Ukraine: From the Middle Ages to the Present Day

Abstract

Background. Forensic odontology is an interdisciplinary field that integrates expertise from dentistry, forensic medicine, and criminalistics. This branch of forensic examination plays a pivotal role in human identification, the analysis of maxillofacial injuries, bite mark examination, and the evaluation of dental care quality. Analyzing the historical trajectory of forensic odontology in Ukraine across different eras allows for a systematic understanding of its development and helps forecast future trends and prospects in the field.

Aim. To identify and systematize the historical stages of the development of forensic odontology in Ukraine from the 9th century through the first quarter of the 21st century.

Materials and Methods. A total of 32 printed and 67 digital historical sources regarding forensic odontology research in Ukraine across various historical periods were analyzed.

Results. The article presents a detailed breakdown of the three historical stages in the development of forensic odontology in Ukraine. For each stage, the key figures who contributed to the establishment of forensic odontology as a distinct field are highlighted, including specialists in forensic medicine (M. S. Bokarius, M. O. Obolonsky, etc.) and dentistry (I. M. Starobinsky, O. E. Rauer, A. I. Rybakov, etc.). From a historical perspective, the article highlights the establishment and activities of the Scientific and Educational Center of Forensic Dentistry in Uzhhorod, as well as the scientific and practical contributions of key scholars, including Professor V. D. Mishalov (Head of the Department of Forensic Medicine at P. L. Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine), Professor Ye. Ya. Kostenko (Director of the Scientific and Educational Center of Forensic Dentistry), and M. Yu. Honcharuk-Khomyn, PhD. Additionally, the publication of the textbook Forensic Dentistry by Professor B. V. Mykhailichenko and co-authors is noted. Finally, current challenges and development perspectives of this interdisciplinary field are outlined.

Conclusions. An analysis of the historical development of forensic odontology enables tracing the evolution of this discipline and evaluating the key milestones that have advanced human identification methods based on dental status. The article delineates the historical stages of forensic odontology in Ukraine from the earliest elements of forensic medical and dental examination in the 9th century through the first quarter of the 21st century—a period marked by expanding international cooperation, digital transformation, and advanced research methodologies. Special emphasis is placed on the integration of forensic dentistry into higher medical education in Ukraine, the contributions of Ukrainian scholars, and modern challenges stemming from armed conflicts and mass casualty events. Currently, the advancement of this field relies on implementing innovative technological solutions, unifying expert methodologies, fostering international collaboration, and systematically enhancing specialist training. Forensic odontological expertise plays a critical role in judicial proceedings, human identification, and criminal investigations. Achieving its full potential requires addressing key challenges, notably the continuous professional development of experts and the timely integration of cutting-edge technological tools into routine practice.