Early Evidence of Dentistry: Neolithic Teeth Unveil Ancient Dental Practices at Mehrgarh

The discovery of Neolithic teeth at the archaeological site of Mehrgarh in Pakistan has provided intriguing evidence of early dentistry practices dating back to approximately 7000 BC. These teeth offer a glimpse into the dental care methods of our ancestors and shed light on their knowledge of oral health.

Among the 3,880 teeth unearthed at the site, eleven of them display distinct drill marks. These marks, found on both upper and lower teeth, indicate that drilling was performed on living individuals rather than being a purely decorative practice. The presence of these marks suggests that early dental procedures were being carried out to address specific dental issues or alleviate discomfort.

Archaeologists have also discovered flint drill bits at Mehrgarh, which were likely used in conjunction with a bow drill. The bow drill, a tool consisting of an arrow-like component attached to a bow-saw, could rotate the drill bit rapidly. Experimental studies have replicated this technique and demonstrated that it can produce similar enamel perforations in teeth in less than a minute.

Interestingly, only four of the teeth exhibiting drill marks show signs of decay. This finding suggests that dental interventions were not limited to addressing dental caries but possibly encompassed other dental conditions or even cosmetic purposes.

The wear marks observed within the drilled holes provide additional insight into the timing of these dental procedures. The presence of wear indicates that the teeth were drilled while the individuals were still alive, suggesting that the aim was to treat existing dental problems rather than engage in post-mortem rituals or modifications.

The discovery of these Neolithic teeth at Mehrgarh highlights the early understanding and practice of dentistry by ancient populations. It offers valuable evidence of their knowledge of dental care, as well as their ability to develop tools and techniques to address dental issues. Further analysis and study of these ancient dental practices could provide significant insights into the history and evolution of dentistry as a medical field.

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