Personal Belongings

• When extensive forensic research is not needed, there are more simple ways to identify a deceased person. Articles of clothing, for example, may aid in classifying a person. Sometimes, clothing is unique to an individual. Shoes, clothing or even an identification card can be found on the deceased. A wallet may still be in a pocket and can provide clues to a body's identity.
  
  

Dental Work

• Dental work is one of the most helpful resources in body identification because teeth are more resistant to trauma than other bones. They can be used to identify sex and age if, for example, a body has undergone severe burns or decomposition. Characteristics such as tooth shape and condition are used to narrow down the identification process. It has been recently discovered that an enamel called amelogenin can aid in determining the owner's sex.
  
  

Forensic Identification

• Forensic identification or DNA typing is the most efficient way to distinguish someone. One tenth of one percent of DNA differentiates one person from another. Samples can be taken from body tissue, hair, blood, bone fragments and so on to find a DNA profile.
  
  

Fingerprinting

• A person's fingerprints are the most unique part of the epidermis. Ridges on the fingers are completely formed before birth and are different for every person. If the fingers aren't damaged, authorities can use fingerprints to identify the deceased.
  
  

Body Modifications

• People can also identify the deceased based if the body has any modifications that have been done. Tattoos and piercings are good clues for body identification. Extreme body modifications such as implants, scarification and plastic surgery can also contribute to identifying the deceased.