Which type of tissues are best for identifying bite marks?

The identification of bite marks is most effectively accomplished using skin tissues. Skin is the outermost layer of protection for the body and is directly impacted in incidents involving bites. When a bite occurs, the skin absorbs the imprint of the teeth, including unique arch patterns, spacing, and specific dental characteristics. These features can be crucial in forensic identification, helping to connect a suspect to a crime scene by comparing the bite mark impressions left on the skin to dental molds of potential offenders.

Other tissue types such as cartilage, muscle, and bone may not provide the same clarity or detail for bite mark identification. Cartilage is generally found in areas like joints and does not provide a distinct impression of bite patterns. Muscle tissue, while it might show some physical trauma, lacks the external imprint characteristics necessary for detailed bite analysis. Bone can provide evidence of trauma related to bites but is less likely to retain the specific impression seen in skin, making skin the most suitable choice for forensic investigations related to bite marks.