Dentistry, bite marks and the investigation of crime.

Bite-mark evidence has become accepted as a powerful tool in the investigation of crime. Human bite marks are found most frequently in cases of murder, rape, child abuse or altercation. When they contain sufficient detail, bite marks may be used to establish the identity of the biter. This article presents cases in which bite marks have provided major evidence in homicide investigations. In addition, all dentists should be familiar with the appearance of bite marks because they may be a primary sign of child abuse.