Broken or missing teeth can be evidence of assault, but if the oral hygiene is generally poor, conclusively connecting broken teeth to torture may be difficult. Petechiae on the palate can be evidence of forced oral intercourse.
There can be untreated caries, tooth or gum pain, gingival inflammation due to poor oral health facilities. Poor oral health can affect a person's physical, psychological and social well being. People may have discomfort due to bleeding gums, bad odor or broken/missing teeth. Individuals who have been tortured are often fearful, anxious, and panicked when placed in a prone position, and sharp dental objects may trigger recollection of torture experiences; clinicians need to exercise patience in allowing patients to maintain control of their environment. However, dentists rarely have the background, education, time, or experience needed to provide appropriate and sensitive care to this population.
Oral cavity examination to look for untreated caries, gingivitis or tooth abscesses. Tooth avulsion, fractured teeth dislocated fillings and broken prostheses could arise from direct trauma or electric shock torture. The tongue, gums or lips can be bitten. Lesions can occur by forcing objects or materials into the mouth as well as by applying electric shocks. There can be bruises or abrasions on the buccal aspect of the cheek, the frenulum may be inflamed or torn. Radiological techniques should be used to assess the extent of soft tissue, mandibular and dental trauma.
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