When you think of dental care, the Neanderthals might not be the first group that comes to mind. However, there is evidence that dentistry was a part of Neanderthal life. Their treatments were a little different than what you encounter when you see the dentist today, of course, but they did take steps to improve their oral health.
Although not much is known about any sustained, organized approaches to dentistry in Neanderthals, teeth from the population show signs of scratches and grooves consistent with using a toothpick to treat the discomfort of impacted teeth. The toothpicks were likely made of pieces of bone or stiff grass. This discovery may not be surprising, given that toothpick use has been discovered in even older civilizations.
At University Associates in Dentistry, we rely on much more modern equipment to provide cosmetic and general dentistry in Chicago , including dental implants and porcelain veneers. To learn more or to make an appointment, call (312) 704-5511.
