Teeth are more than just tools for chewing food. They are also a rich source of information about our ancestors’ diets. By analyzing tooth shape, size, micro-wear, and plaque chemistry, scientists can tease out the nuances of early hominin diets and the telltale marks that food processing and cooking have left on our choppers today.
Tooth Shape and Size
The shape and size of teeth can provide clues about the types of foods our ancestors ate. For example, herbivores often have flat, grinding molars, while carnivores have pointed, sharp teeth for tearing meat. Early hominins, such as Australopithecus, had a mix of these features, suggesting they were omnivores.
Micro-wear and Plaque Analysis
Microscopic analysis of tooth surfaces can reveal evidence of the abrasive and acidic effects of different foods. Patterns of microscopic scratches and pits on the enamel surface can indicate the texture and hardness of the foods consumed. Additionally, the chemical composition of dental plaque can provide information about the types of plants and animals that were part of the diet.
The Impact of Food Processing and Cooking
The development of tools for food processing, such as stone tools and the control of fire, has had a significant impact on human diet and dental evolution. Cooking and processing food can soften the texture and reduce the abrasiveness of the diet, which can lead to changes in tooth size and shape over generations. Understanding these changes helps scientists reconstruct the dietary and technological innovations of our ancestors.