# Preliminary Insights into 3D Cheiloscopy for Forensic Applications: A Pilot Study
## 4 Discussion
### The Introduction of 3D Cheiloscopy: Advantages and Future Prospects  
The introduction of 3D cheiloscopy marks a paradigm shift in forensic identification, moving away from subjective, operator-dependent methods toward objective, technology-driven analysis [23]. Using advanced intraoral scanners, extremely detailed three-dimensional images of the lips can be acquired, ensuring superior precision and significantly reducing the variability resulting from human intervention [19; 24].  
One of the most significant improvements is the ability of 3D cheiloscopy to eliminate operator-dependent variability [23]. Thanks to the standardization of the acquisition process and the use of digital technologies, this methodology offers greater repeatability and less dependence on the operator [25]. Furthermore, the possibility of obtaining digital models allows for much more detailed analysis compared to analog techniques, which previously did not allow equally precise data manipulation [13].  
Besides improving data quality, 3D technology is also less invasive than traditional impression collection [13]. The scanners operate remotely, avoiding direct contact with the skin and thus reducing discomfort for the subject [14]. This is particularly advantageous in clinical and forensic settings, where patient comfort is essential for accurate results [24; 26].  
Moreover, digitizing lip impressions allows for more efficient and secure data management. 3D scans can be stored in digital format, easily shared, and repeatedly analyzed without loss of quality, improving reproducibility and interdisciplinary collaboration [23; 25]. In forensic settings, this data retention capacity is crucial, as it allows lip prints to be accessed at any time without risk of deterioration [27].  
A crucial aspect of the adoption of 3D cheiloscopy concerns the choice and optimization of both the software and hardware used [28]. While 3D technology offers enormous advantages, the quality of the results strongly depends on the resolution of the scannersand the precision of the analysis algorithms [23]. The use of devices with insufficient resolution or inadequately calibrated software could compromise the accuracy of the three-dimensional models and the reliability of the analyses [29]. Therefore, careful selection and calibration of technological tools is essential to ensure that the benefits of 3D cheloscopy can be fully exploited in forensic settings [2].  
While this pilot study involved a limited sample of two participants, both the 3D and analog impressions of each participant were systematically compared. This included cross-comparisons between the participants to demonstrate that the lip prints belonged to different individuals. The 3D scans provided quantitative data, such as standard deviation and surface deviation metrics, which allowed for an objective and precise assessment of differences between the individuals.  
In contrast, the analog impressions relied solely on visual evaluation, which not only lacked quantitative metrics but also exhibited operator-dependent variability. This difference highlights the limitations of analog methods in ensuring consistent and reliable comparisons, further underscoring the potential of 3D technology to provide standardized and reproducible results.  
These findings provide a foundation for further investigations with larger and more diverse datasets. Future research should focus on refining digital lip print classification algorithms and exploring the integration of artificial intelligence to enhance pattern recognition and automate forensic analysis [26; 30].