Rugoscopy for Establishing Individuality

Palatal rugoscopy is the name given to the study of palatal rugae. Rugae pattern remain unchanged during an individuals life time. Personal identification is based on the rugae pattern since palate would remain intact when most other anatomical structures are destroyed or burned by their internal position in the head. Rugae pattern is as unique to a human as his or her fingerprints. OBJECTIVES- The purpose of the study is to establish individual identity using palatal rugae Patterns. MATERIALS AND METHODS - Study group consisted of 90 study models including both genders aged above 14yrs. Martin dos santos classification was followed to asses rugae pattern. RESULTS- Each individual had different set of rugae patterns even among the family members. The rugae patterns were not symmetrical, both in number and in its distribution. CONCLUSION- No two palates are alike. Palatal rugae possess unique characteristics as they are absolutely individual and therefore can be used as a personal print for identification and also in forensic science.