Domestic violence is recognized as both a major health concern and a serious social problem. It is a well-known fact that domestic violence has reached epidemic proportion in the United States.<sup>7 Berrios D.C., Grady D. Domestic violence: Risk factors and outcomes West J Med 1991 ;  155 : 133-135

Cliquez ici pour aller à la section Références</sup> The intentional physical, sexual, and emotional attacks perpetrated against children, spouses, and the elderly by family members, caregivers, or purported friends can have catastrophic effects on the physical and psychological well-being of the victim. It is not uncommon for victims to be repeatedly abused before necessary and often mandatory steps are taken to protect them from further harm. Timely detection, treatment, and notification of proper authorities can prevent additional serious injury or even fatality.

Health care professionals who are responsible for treating possible victims must be aware of the diagnostic signs and symptoms associated with physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. Victims who have been seriously injured could visit the Emergency Department (ED) of the community hospital to receive treatment.<sup>21 Hyden P.W., Gallagher T.A. Child abuse intervention in the emergency room Pediatr Clin North Am 1992 ;  39 : 1053-1081

Cliquez ici pour aller à la section Références, 28 Pakieser R.A., Lenaghan P.A., Muelleman R.L. Battered women: Where they go for help J Emerg Nurs 1998 ;  24 : 16-19  [cross-ref]

Cliquez ici pour aller à la section Références</sup> Because many injuries associated with the physical or sexual abuse of children, adults, and elderly people involve the orofacial complex, it is essential for the emergency physician to recognize suspicious perioral and intraoral trauma and to consult with a dental professional who is knowledgeable in diagnosing and treating abused patients.

This article offers a review of the various types of traumatic orofacial injuries that are often identified with victims of child, spouse, and elder abuse. Examples of intraoral injuries and systemic diseases that can mimic injuries caused by domestic violence are discussed. The importance of bite mark identification is also explained.