Here are five things to know, according to the report:
1. Using Scanning Electron Microscopy, researchers identified the presence of striations deriving from the manipulation of a large occlusal carious cavity of the lower right third molar.
2. The striations have a “V”-shaped transverse section and several parallel micro-scratches at their base.
3. Researchers were able to confirm that the identified striations and the associated extensive enamel chipping on the mesial wall of the cavity were produced ante-mortem by pointed flint tools during scratching and levering activities.
4. The Villabruna specimen is the oldest known evidence of dental caries intervention, “suggesting at least some knowledge of disease treatment well before the Neolithic.”
5. Researchers suggest suggests that primitive forms of carious treatment in human evolution entail an adaptation of the well-known toothpicking for levering and scratching rather than drilling practices.
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