Statistical Evidence for the Individuality of the Human Dentition

Abstract

A general population sample of bite marks in wax is used to demonstrate mathematically the individuality of the human dentition. The general principles of probability are discussed and applied to the analysis of teeth using a precise method of measurement. The unique nature of the human dentition is confirmed.

Forensic Dentistry

“…There have been studies undertaken in controlled populations, 32 and more recently in wider populations that show adequate evidence that dentition is individualized. A small study done at UCLA School of Dentistry by Dr. Reidar Sognnaes 31 on identical twins showed adequate points of differentiation between them, even in the primary dentition.…”

The barriers to achieving an evidence base for bitemark analysis

“…With an assumed world population of 4 billion (4 Â 109) Rawson stated that a match at five teeth on a bitemark would be sufficient evidence to positively identify an individual as the biter to the exclusion of all others [48].…”

“…This was not the case. The upper right lateral incisor was reported to have 239.9 possible locations while the upper left lateral incisor had 161.5 locations [48].…”

“…It is, therefore, not the uniqueness of the teeth that is questioned, it is the rendition of these asserted unique features on human skin that is the unknown quantity. Rawson alluded to this point within his article: ''.. whether there is a representation of that uniqueness in the mark found on the skin or other inanimate objects'' [48]. Rawson has proven what his article claims, although perhaps not to the mathematical or statistical certainty expressed.…”

Reliability and Analysis of Changes in Bite Marks at Different Time Intervals and Temperature Ranges

“…The first bite mark analysis was reported in 1874. Since then, various techniques for the comparison of dentition to bite marks left on the skin or other inanimate objects have been described [9]. Most of the studies in the literature are confined to bite marks examination immediately after the bite mark is created [10].…”