Bite marks, like fingerprints, are unique and a forensic dentist will be able to make a cast or take pictures of the bite marks (which bruise in the same way as a wound caused by blunt force trauma or the result of a tightly held grip) to use later on as a means of comparing results.

Forensic dentists use several different terms to describe the type of bite mark: Abrasion - a scrape on the skin Artifact - when a piece of the body, such as an ear lobe, is removed through biting Avulsion - a bite resulting in the removal of skin Contusion - a bruise Hemorrhage - a profusely bleeding bite Incision - a clean, neat wound Laceration - a puncture wound

Types of Bites A clear impression means that there was significant pressure; obvious bite signifies medium pressure noticeable impression means that the biter used violent pressure to bite down.

Characteristics A human bite mark will often be elliptical or circular in formation and will display the specific characteristics of the teeth that have been used to make the mark. Likewise a bite mark will can be U-shaped in appearance with a space in between to show where the biter has opened their mouth to a width necessary to get their teeth around a wrist or an arm.

Food can be evidence Comparing the Bite patterns on food

Measurements

Matching mold to bite mark

Analysis of Bite Mark

Becoming a Forensic Dentist In the United States, many forensic dentists are certified by the American Board of Forensic Odontology. There is a long list of qualifications to obtain this certification, including: Complete coursework at an approved school such as the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology or the School of Dentistry at the University of Texas at San Antonio Be present and participate in meetings of national organizations related to forensics or forensic dentistry Work with a coroner, medical examiner's office or law enforcement for at least two years Work on at least 25 forensic dental cases, including 15 positive identification cases and two bite-mark cases

1 – Fold the Styrofoam plate in half. 2 – Label one side MAXILLA and the other MANDIBLE. 3 – Gently bite down on the plate to leave your bite mark impression. 4 – Place a sheet of the plastic film over the impression and use a permanent marker to recreate the pattern to match that of your bite mark. 5 – Use a ruler to make the measurements shown and record in the table below along with any notes regarding unique characteristics you observe in the teeth. Part 1: Make an Impression Width Depth Maxilla Mandible Maxilla Mandible