Analysis of Photographic Distortion in Bite Marks: A Report of the Bite Mark Guidelines Committee

Abstract Some degree of distortion is found in all bite marks. That distortion can be caused by photographic methods of recording the mark, by the dynamics of the bite, or by artifaction. All types of distortion complicate the process of matching marks to dentition, thus making it important to understand the distortion and, if possible, correct or allow for it. A method of analyzing photographically distorted bite patterns is presented, future research directions are suggested, and evidence-gathering standards are stressed.