Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia
Advertisement

Toothpicks Were Used by Neanderthals to Alleviate Pain of Gum Disease

by Kathy Jones on October 20, 2013 at 7:46 PM
 Toothpicks Were Used by Neanderthals to Alleviate Pain of Gum Disease

Hominids used toothpicks to mitigate pain caused by oral diseases such as inflammation of the gums, a new research based on the Cova Forada Neanderthal fossil has shown.

It is the oldest documented case of palliative treatment of dental disease done with this tool.

Advertisement

The study was aimed to show the correlation between the use of toothpicks and an attempt to alleviate sore gums in a Neanderthal maxilla recovered from the archaeological site of Cova Forada.

The material studied consists of three teeth present in situ in the articulated right and left adult maxilla.

The maxilla showed evidence of periodontal disease and heavy dental wear, although it lacks other pathologies such as dental decay or abscesses.
Advertisement

The heavily worn teeth in the specimen are evidenced by the loss of the majority of the dental crown and, on the occlusal surface, by large areas of exposed dentine surrounded by a thin rim of remnant enamel.

The occlusal surfaces show pitting, scratching and enamel chipping of antemortem origin, indicating the intense use of the teeth. The extreme and heavy occlusal load on the teeth throughout the lifetime of this individual resulted in this type of dental wear.

The study is published in PLOS ONE.

Source: ANI
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Dental News

Healthy Mouth Balances Metabolic Profiles & Cuts Cardiometabolic Risk
Oral conditions like dental caries, periodontal disorders, and infections are associated with metabolic profiles that raise the risk of heart diseases.
Pomegranate Extract Mouthwash Preserves Oral Hygiene in Dogs
The pomegranate extract water additive Vet Aquadent FR3SH reduces the buildup of plaque and tartar on dogs' teeth and mitigates the risk of periodontal disease.
Home Test Shields Your Smile by Spotting Tooth Decay Risks
Groundbreaking home test for gingivitis and periodontal disease enables early detection of tooth decay risks.
Stem Cell-derived 3D Tissue (organoids) Restores Damaged Tooth
Developing new organoid models resembling the outer layer of the tooth (enamel) that secretes required proteins may pave the way to future tooth-regenerative options.
Artificial Intelligence Way to Save your Tooth
A newly developed artificial intelligence (AI) platform could revolutionize dentistry by helping dentists to read radiographs for tooth decay accurately.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
×

Toothpicks Were Used by Neanderthals to Alleviate Pain of Gum Disease Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests