Believe it or not, teeth are pretty interesting. Your dentist can learn a lot about your health, lifestyle, and even your habits from your pearly whites. However, teeth also hold centuries of secrets. Scientists have found that teeth can preserve antibodies for hundreds of years. This gives researchers insight into the history of infectious human diseases. Here’s what scientists have learned from ancient specimens.
Teeth May Preserve Antibodies
Antibodies are proteins made by the immune system as a natural response to viruses and infections. Antibodies target microbes to remove them from the body. A new research paper featured evidence of teeth possibly preserving antibodies for hundreds of years. As a result, scientists can investigate the history of infectious human diseases.
According to the study, researchers extracted antibodies from 800-year-old medieval human teeth. They identified viral proteins, which they were able to purify from skeletal remains. They were able to test if the antibodies were still capable of recognising harmful pathogens, even after hundreds of years. The results were promising as antibodies were able to recognize the Epstein-Barr virus, which causes glandular fever. Researchers are currently studying the presence of antibodies in ancient specimens and their reaction to diseases during specific periods throughout history, like the Black Death.
Ancient Teeth and Dietary Trends
Ancient infectious diseases aren’t the only things researchers have found from teeth. Archeologists have also learned about the diet trends of past civilizations. Teeth showing abnormal wear can indicate meat diets, whereas teeth with cavities can be from agricultural crops. Researchers have learned more about the development of dental problems as humans began to farm. These discoveries have helped researchers and healthcare professionals understand region-specific diet trends and progressions.
Your teeth are pretty exceptional. You only get one set of permanent teeth, so it’s best to take care of them. Brush your teeth at least twice daily for 2 minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss your teeth every day to remove food residue and plaque. Eat healthy foods that are limited in sugars and starches. Commit to visiting your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. You’ll ensure your teeth last for a lifetime and beyond.
About Dr. Julie Young
Dr. Young has over 23 years of experience in general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. She continues her training in the latest solutions in dentistry and remains current with new research and studies. Dr. Young is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. Contact her office at (415) 223-8846 to schedule an appointment.
