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Evaluation of Bitemark Analysis's Potential Application in Forensic Identification: A Systematic Review
Nikolaos Christoloukas1, Anastasia Mitsea1, Aliki Rontogianni2
1Department of Oral Diagnosis and Radiology, School of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece.
Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 19, 2024
Summary
Bitemark analysis shows potential for forensic identification, but results are controversial. Further research and a global protocol are needed for reliable, objective, and reproducible identification methods.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Odontology
- Legal Medicine
Background:
- Bitemark analysis utilizes dental uniqueness for human identification.
- It examines patterned injuries and contextual data from teeth marks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review scientific evidence on bitemark analysis in forensic identification.
- Evaluate literature published between 2012 and 2023.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines.
- Searched Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library (Jan 2012-Dec 2023).
- Applied strict inclusion/exclusion criteria and MeSH terms.
Main Results:
- Controversial findings: two-thirds support bitemark analysis utility.
- One-third reported non-significant outcomes, cautioning against sole reliance.
- Increased research aims for quantitative and objective results.
Conclusions:
- Bitemark analysis can be a reliable, complementary forensic identification tool.
- Requires a universally accepted protocol for data collection, processing, and interpretation.
- Recent research focuses on improving objectivity, reproducibility, and accuracy.
