Thomas-Kotze Classification
Definition
A widely adopted 1983 system that scores each ruga by length (primary >5mm, secondary 3-5mm, fragmentary <3mm) and shape (straight, curved, wavy, circular, convergent, divergent, unification). Produces an alphanumeric code per individual.
Related terms
- Denture Marking
- The technique of embedding a ante-mortem rugae record (cast or photograph) within a dental prosthesis so that the appliance can be matched...
- Lysell Classification
- A 1955 system using uppercase letters to encode rugae shapes: A (straight), B (curved), C (angled), D (sinuous), E (circular), F (irregular)....
- Palatal Rugae
- Irregular, asymmetric transverse ridges of dense fibrous connective tissue on the anterior hard palate, covered by keratinised mucosa and fixed in pattern...
- Rugoscopy
- The forensic and clinical practice of recording, classifying, and comparing palatal rugae patterns for personal identification. Also called palatoscopy in some literature.
- Uniqueness of Rugae
- The empirical claim that the combined length, shape, position, and number of rugae constitute a pattern that does not repeat across individuals,...
Explained in
- Palatal Rugoscopy: Rugae Patterns and IdentificationA widely adopted 1983 system that scores each ruga by length (primary >5mm, secondary 3-5mm, fragmentary <3mm) and shape (straight, curved, wavy, circular, con...