Bite mark traces

This article provides an insight into bite mark analysis, which is a controversial discipline within forensic odontology. The forensic significance is a crucial factor, and as bite marks cover barely visible traces to avulsed tissue, bite mark analysis comparing the bite mark with the dentition of a suspected offender can be very difficult and complex. The quality of a bite mark is often so poor that analysis should be omitted, especially considering bite marks on skin. The expert must be cautious with their statement and not oversell the findings. Historically, expert opinions on bite marks have been presented on highly dubious grounds, and as DNA profiling found its use, in several serious cases, bite mark statements have been disproved and original court rulings reversed. The correct and fast collection of data in bite mark cases is critical in order to secure the best evidence for the forensic team to work on. In cases where general dentists are forced to collect bite mark data, they are urged to seek help and instructions from a forensic odontologist or the police in order to obtain good quality documentation.