Have you ever wondered what the prehistoric dentists used to take care of their patients’ teeth without the technology that we have today? Thanks to researchers, you may not need to wonder anymore. Researchers have discovered something that may open up knowledge and insight into the world of ancient dentistry.
In September 2012, researchers from Italy’s Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics found a 6,500 year-old human jawbone with a tooth still fused to it. The tooth contained small traces of beeswax that appeared to be a filling. This was reported in the open access journal PLOS ONE. The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics worked with Sincrotone Trieste and several other institutions.
According to PLOS ONE, the beeswax was applied to the tooth close to the time when the person died. Studies hypothesized that if it were applied before the individual died, the beeswax may have been used to reduce pain or sensitivity, which could have been caused by a crack in the tooth. This breakthrough in research is exciting and may offer advanced knowledge of prehistoric dentistry.
If you have questions regarding dentistry and how to improve the condition of your oral health, please visit my Beverly Hills practice today. We welcome your visit.