Mesolithic Hunter-Gatherers Suffered Modern Dental Issues, Study Finds

Analysis of ancient birch tar samples reveals high rates of tooth decay and gum disease among a group in south-western Scandinavia 10,000 years ago.

Analysis of ancient birch tar samples reveals that Mesolithic hunter-gatherers in south-western Scandinavia suffered from dental issues similar to modern humans, including tooth decay and gum disease.
The birch tar, used as a form of glue, was likely chewed by teenagers who had recently consumed deer, trout, and hazelnuts.
Researchers found that the group had a high rate of gum disease, estimated at 70 to 80%, likely due to the use of their teeth as tools and exposure to a wide range of bacteria.
DNA sequences from other plants and animals, including apple, red fox, grey wolf, and mistletoe, were also found in the samples, suggesting the group's diverse diet and use of animal fur in toolmaking.
The findings provide a snapshot of the life of a small group of hunter-gatherers on the Scandinavian west coast around 10,000 years ago.