Awareness of forensic odontology and child abuse recognition among desntists

Objectives: This study assessed the awareness of dental students and practicing dentists in Turkey regarding forensic odontology and the recognition and reporting of child abuse. Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study included 406 participants. The 31-item questionnaire covered forensic odontology, child abuse recognition, legal responsibilities, and reporting procedures. A certainty score was calculated from the objectively structured True/False/“I don’t know” items (Q18-Q28), while the remaining items were analyzed descriptively. Descriptive and subgroup analyses evaluated associations between participant characteristics and certainty scores. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. Results: The mean certainty score was 5.08 ± 2.74 (range: 0-11), with no significant gender differences (p > 0.05). Cronbach’s alpha indicated acceptable internal consistency (α = 0.74). Many participants were uncertain about medico-legal aspects and reporting procedures. Reporting preferences varied across workplace settings, suggesting inconsistent knowledge of reporting pathways. Conclusions: Although participants demonstrated a general awareness of forensic odontology and child abuse recognition, important uncertainties remained regarding medico-legal responsibilities and reporting procedures. These findings highlight the need to strengthen undergraduate and postgraduate education in forensic odontology and child abuse reporting within dental curricula. However, the findings should be interpreted in light of the study’s exploratory nature and methodological limitations. (Rev Port Estomatol Med Dent Cir Maxilofac. 2026;67(x):1-10)