The Parastyle: A Discrete Trait of the Maxillary Molars

This study examines the parastyle, a rare non-metric dental trait observed on the buccal surface of the mesio-buccal cusp of upper molars. Typically unilateral, the parastyle is most frequently found on the second and third maxillary molars, though it occurs at a low frequency. We present a case involving a skull discovered near a stream, where a parastyle was identified on the upper right second molar. This trait, along with other dental findings, was instrumental in building the biological profile of the individual. The rarity of the parastyle enhances its forensic value, offering a useful marker in the identification process, particularly when other identification markers are insufficient or unavailable. This case underscores the potential of rare dental traits in forensic investigations and highlights the importance of incorporating such traits into the broader context of forensic analysis.