Bitemark analysis using an intraoral 3d scanner (iTero®): experimental study on human skin

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Biometrics
• Digital Imaging

Background:

• Bite mark analysis is crucial in forensic investigations.
• Current methods rely on subjective visual comparisons.
• A need exists for objective and accurate bitemark analysis techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of three-dimensional (3D) scanning and computer software for objective bitemark analysis.
• To compare the accuracy of 3D bitemark analysis against traditional methods.
• To assess the potential of this digital approach for forensic applications.

Main Methods:

• Human skin bitemarks were experimentally produced using dental plaster models.
• iTero® 3D scanner was used to capture 3D data of dental models and bitemarks.
• MeshMixer™ and CloudCompare software were employed for quantitative comparison and analysis.

Main Results:

• Distinct distribution curve trends were observed when comparing bitemarks to matched versus non-matched dentitions.
• No significant differences were found between upper and lower dental arches in the analysis.
• The 3D scanning method demonstrated potential in differentiating between correct and incorrect dental matches under experimental conditions.

Conclusions:

• Three-dimensional scanning offers a promising, objective approach to bitemark analysis.
• This digital method provides a foundation for more accurate forensic identification.
• Further validation is necessary before widespread forensic application.