Unearthing Dental Plaque
A recent archaeological study has unearthed more than just human remains. After the 1000 year old remains were found at the Medieval site of Dalheim, Germany, scientists discovered plaque still remained on the teeth. A group of scientists led by the University of Zurich, University of York, and the University of Copenhagen have been busy analyzing the fossilized plaque found on the human jaw.
Unlike bone, dental calculus (plaque) slowly grows in the mouth and is released into the surrounding soil instead of breaking down on a molecular level. This helped preserve the plaque to enable the scientists to study the oral microbiome present.
The scientists found that the same opportunistic pathogens caused periodontal disease both then and now, despite the drastic change in human diet and hygiene. The amount of periodontal disease-causing bacteria can definitely be decreased through the practice of good oral health care, but it is fascinating that pathogens present over 1000 years ago are still around and have the same effect on humans.
Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/02/140223131629.htm
R. Eric Emery, DDS
Morgan A. Emery, DDS
Smile Station Dental
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
smilestationdental.com
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