Biomechanical Factors in Human Dermal Bitemarks in a Cadaver Model†

  1. Mary A. Bush D.D.S.1,
  2. Raymond G. Miller D.D.S.1,
  3. Peter J. Bush B.S.1,
  4. Robert B. J. Dorion D.D.S.2

Article first published online: 24 NOV 2008

DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2008.00908.x

Issue

Journal of Forensic Sciences

Journal of Forensic Sciences

Volume 54, Issue 1, pages 167–176, January 2009

Additional Information

How to Cite

Bush, M. A., Miller, R. G., Bush, P. J. and Dorion, R. B. J. (2009), Biomechanical Factors in Human Dermal Bitemarks in a Cadaver Model. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 54: 167–176. doi: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2008.00908.x

Author Information

  1. 1

    Laboratory for Forensic Odontology Research, School of Dental Medicine, SUNY at Buffalo, B1 Squire Hall, South Campus, Buffalo, NY 14214.

  2. 2

    Laboratoire de sciences judiciaires et de médecine légale, Ministère de la Sécurité publique Québec, Édifice Wilfrid-Derome, 1701 rue Parthenais, 12 étage, Montréal, Quebec, Canada H2K 3S7.

*Additional information and reprint requests: Mary A. Bush, D.D.S. Laboratory for Forensic Odontology Research SUNY at Buffalo, South Campus B1 Squire Hall 3435 Main St Buffalo, NY 14214 E-mail: bushma@buffalo.edu

  • †

    Presented at the 60th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in Washington, DC, February 18–23, 2008.

Publication History

  1. Issue published online: 29 DEC 2008
  2. Article first published online: 24 NOV 2008
  3. Received 16 Dec. 2007; and in revised form 31 May 2008; accepted 31 May 2008.

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Keywords:

  • forensic science;
  • forensic odontology;
  • bitemarks;
  • bitemark research;
  • human skin;
  • distortion

Abstract:  In bitemark analysis, the forensic odontologist must consider how the biomechanical properties of the skin contribute to distortion of the bitemark. In addition, one must consider how the bitemark can be distorted by postural movement of the victim after the bite has occurred. A fundamental review of the architecture and biomechanical properties of the dermis is described and evaluated through bites made on cadavers. In order to assess distortion, 23 bites from a single characterized dentition were made on un-embalmed cadaver skin. Bite indentations were photographed. Following various body manipulations they were re-photographed in different positions. Hollow volume overlays of the biting dentition were constructed, and metric analysis of the dentition and all bitemarks was completed. The overall intercanine, mesial to distal, and angle of rotation distortion was calculated. Of the 23 bites made, none were measurably identical, and in some cases, dramatic distortion was noted.

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