Reality Bites – Demystifying Crime

Forensic dentistry is an essential part of Forensic science, mainly involves the identification of an assailant by comparing a record of their dentition (set of teeth) with a record of a bite mark left on a victim. Human bite-mark traditionally provides the forensic dentist with both physical and biological evidence. Bites have been found in cases of homicide, attempted suicide, sexual assault, and child abuse. Bite marks with high evidentiary value that can be used in comparisons with the suspects’ teeth will include marks from specific teeth that accurately record distinct traits. The teeth may also be used as weapon and, under certain circumstances may leave information as to the identity of the biter. Analysis of bite marks is the second major responsibility of the forensic dentist. However, the advent of DNA and its recovery from bite-marks has offered an objective method of bite-mark analysis. Despite the strengths of DNA, the physical comparison of a suspect’s dentition to bite-mark injuries is still commonplace. The article provides an update on the current context and status of bite-mark analysis.