A Scottish case of murder is described in which the evidence to support conviction was entirely circumstantial. The principal evidence incriminating the accused youth, which the trial judge described as of paramount importance, concerned three bite-marks on the body of the victim. These were shown to be explicable as having been caused by the accused's teeth. In addition they included unique ring marks made by pits in teeth resulting from hypoplasia and hypocalcification. The accused's teeth showed matching characteristics. To preserve the evidence of the accused's characteristics the unparalleled step of compelling submission to the taking of dental impressions was sanctioned, a procedure which, though challenged, was approved and commended on appeal. Consideration is given to the dental research necessary before, during and after the case, and the literature is extensively reviewed. The implications for future work of this kind are briefly considered, and the new receptiveness of the Scottish Courts to careful scientific evidence noted.