Forensic Dentistry

Dr. Williams is trained in forensic dentistry and is a member of the Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team, a program of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Following the September 11 tragedy in New York City, he participated on the identification team at the Chief Medical Examiner’s Office. Dental identifications are key in identifying the victims of a mass disaster. Dr. Williams has been qualified as an expert witness in the state of Minnesota.

What is Forensic Dentistry?

Forensic dentistry or forensic odontology is the proper handling, examination and evaluation of dental evidence, which will then be presented in the interest of justice.

Forensic dentists are responsible for six main areas of practice:

  • Dental Identification – the most widely recognized area of forensic dentistry. When a deceased victim’s remains are recovered, establishing the victim’s identity is the task at hand. The United States’ legal system recognizes Visual, Fingerprint, Dental, Medical, Anthropological and DNA for human identification.
  • Identification in mass fatalities
  • Assessment of bite mark injuries – The arrangement, size and alignment of the human teeth are unique to each individual. When a biting incident occurs involving the human dentition, the unique characteristics of the biter’s teeth are transferred to the object or the person bitten. Using the bite mark, which transferred those unique qualities to the object being bitten when the bite occurred, it is sometimes possible to establish the identity of the person responsible for the biting.
  • Assessment of cases of abuse (child, spousal, elder) – Child abuse and domestic violence is an epidemic.The abuse bears no prejudice to the multiple economic, social and educational environments within our society that it may affect. The abuse is a learned behavior. Every attempt must be made to break this violent behavior. All health care providers are mandated to report suspected cases of abuse.
  • Civil cases involving malpractice
  • Age estimation – Often times there is a need to evaluate and estimate the age of the legally charged to determined if they should be tried as a child or adult. This is accomplished by evaluating third molar development.

To contact Dr. Williams about a case, fill out the form below.




If you prefer, just give Dr. Williams a call at 612-521-7611.

About Us

  • Certified in Sedation Dentistry
  • Serving the Twin Cities and surrounding areas
  • Available daily for emergencies
  • We accept most insurances
  • Licensed expert in forensic dentistry
  • Dr. Williams is a 12 year veteran of the NFL

Testimonials

'I had a toothache and no insurance. I called Dr. Williams office and I was able to come in as an emergency. His staff was courteous. I was scared and in so much pain. Dr. Williams and his staff made me feel comfortable I was out of pain before I knew what happened. I’ve been back three additional times and have referred two friends."
- Rose in Edina
"I have been a patient of Dr. John Williams Dental office for the past 10 years! I wouldn’t consider going anywhere else. The staff is always courteous and professional. I never have to wait."
- John Minneapolis
"I was referred to Dr. Williams office by a friend. My first appointment I was able to get in within two days. I was impressed with Dr. Williams knowledge and chairside technique. I’ve been a patient for 6 years my entire family comes here."
- Nancy in Bloomington

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