Assessment and classification of the forensic significance of human bite marks in skin

The forensic significance of a bite mark is a relevant factor in the analysis of human bite marks in skin and comparison with teeth. The interpretation of the causal dentition’s class and individual characteristics forms the basis for assessing a bite mark’s forensic significance. The paucity of scientific research in the assessment of forensic significance is an important limiting factor in bite mark analysis and in justifying the comparison of a bite mark with teeth. An evidence-based rationale for assessing and classifying the forensic significance of human bite marks in skin is examined and a limited empirical classification is proposed.