Human Bite Mark: A Digital Analytical Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Bite mark identification is based on the individuality of a dentition and helps in identifying the perpetrator. The use of three-dimensional (3D) analysis of forensic evidence is highlighted in comparison with traditional methods. CBCT has been used in registering bite mark on food material. To our knowledge this is the first study where CBCT is used to register bite mark from human forearm. Aims and Objective: To signify the potential of CBCT in registering and analysing the bite mark on human skin and to analyse various identifying parameters. Materials and Method: 60 subjects of either sex were asked to bite their own forearm and alginate impression of the maxillary and mandible dentition was taken and cast was poured. Both bitemark and cast was subjected to CBCT scanning and parameters like arch shape, inter canine width, mesio distal dimension of anterior teeth, and individual characteristics like rotation, buccal/lingual tilting of teeth was noted and compared and assigned a score using simplified version of ABFO scoring system. Results: Highly significant result with 56.6% definite match, 26.66% probable match and 16.66% possible match were obtained using CBCT. Conclusion: CBCT is a non-destructive, accurate, efficient, objective and reproducible method. Out of all parameter mesio-distal dimension of teeth is the best parameter to judge the bitemark on skin.

Keywords

• arch shape
• bite mark
• buccal/lingual tilting
• cone-beam computed tomography
• intercanine distance
• mesiodistal dimension
• rotation