DENTAL PATHOLOGIES OF THE LATE SCYTHIANS (by the materials of Chervony Mayak necropolis)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37445/adiu.2024.04.10Keywords:
Chervony Mayak, Late Scythian culture, paleopathology, dietsAbstract
The Late Scythian sites are located in three regions of Ukraine: the Lower Dniester, the Lower Dnieper, and Crimea. Archaeological research has shown that the Late Scythian archaeological culture has Scythian, La Tиne, Graeco-Roman, and Sarmatian elements.
Since the beginning of the 20th century, 17 hillforts and 3 necropolises of the Late Scythian culture have been discovered in the Lower Dnieper region. Previous anthropological research has provided insights into the morphological type of these people. However, there is a paucity of data concerning morbidity, trauma, and biological adaptation.
The analysis of odontological materials through paleopathological methods enables the conclusions regarding the dietary habits, level of hygiene, and way of life of ancient populations. The paleopathological analysis comprised 106 individuals from the Chervony Mayak necropolis representing a period between the 2nd century BC and the 3rd century AD.
The data indicate that tooth wear was not pathological in this population, with the highest rates observed among mature individuals. However, a differential analysis of the burials revealed that there were differences in this aspect between the various types of burials. In particular, the analysis of individuals buried in crypts revealed that the wear of the anterior teeth was more severe, indicating that these teeth were used for mastication, probably due to the loss of molars and premolars. In the pit and niche graves, the posterior teeth exhibited greater abrasion, which may indicate dietary differences between the two groups.
Most cases of enamel chipping were observed on the anterior surface of the teeth, a finding that may also be associated with dietary factors, including the consumption of abrasive or harsher foods.
The high incidence of dental calculus indicates a diet high in protein. Furthermore, the statistically significant correlation between caries and age suggests an increased consumption of carbohydrates in older individuals. However, compared to agricultural populations, the prevalence of caries is lower in this group, which may indicate a lower carbohydrate intake associated with a higher proportion of protein foods.
The analysis also revealed a correlation between the type of burial structures and dental pathologies, suggesting dietary differences among different social groups. Individuals buried in crypts were likely to have consumed foods with higher calorie content, which may have resulted in higher levels of dental caries and calculus.
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