The Differentiation of Toothed Marks: Report of a Case of Special Forensic Interest

The first case reported in the literature where a toothed weapon was found in the murder room and therefore suspected of causing injuries is described. Detailed dental examination showed conclusively that the toothed marks were bites, which proved important in differentiating between a sadistic attack with a saw and an attempted drunken sexual arousal. The case demonstrates that a full dental evaluation, as described, is mandatory in any case of wounding where a toothed cause is suspected. The value of the acetate film technique for speedy and accurate reproduction of bite marks is illustrated.