For centuries, archaeologists have been confused by the unusual, flat spots found on the teeth of ancient Europeans. But what if the answer is not a diet or dental tool – but prehistoric body pies? A scientist now believes that ice age individuals, some as young as 10, may have sported cheek piercings and left a surprising mark on history.
Junge Arrowa biological anthropologist at University of Coimbra In Portugal, these piercings suggest probably served as a marker for group identity. However, they also had an unexpected effect – and changed the wearer’s teeth over time.
In a study published on January 23 in the Journal of Paleolithic Archeology, Willman investigated the skeletal remains of the Pavlovian people, a group that inhabited Central Europe between 25,000 and 29,000 years ago. His research focused mainly on patterns of dental clothing and provided new insights on the effects of these ancient ornaments.

Wilman explained that with repeated behaviors, such as chewing, grinding and sometimes holding objects in the mouth, wearing the enamel on our teeth, which makes it flatter or something angled. But in these Pavlovic jaws, the wear on the cheek side of the teeth was instead, which aroused Wilma’s interest.
Willman believed that the distinct dental clothing found in Pavlovian residues could best be explained by the use of labrets, making it a strong hypothesis for the cause of the wear.

What are Labretter?

The word “labret” derives from the Latin term for “lip” and describes a type of piercing worn in the lower lip or cheek. While Labrets has been documented in both ancient and modern societies, no physical evidence of them has been discovered in Pavlovic funerals. Willman suggests that this absence may be due to the materials used – possibly wood or leather – which may have broken down over time and left no traces behind.

Representative

According to Willman, the presence of wear on some baby teeth suggests that individuals probably got their first lab in childhood. His results also indicate that adults showed more extensive enamel clothes in the cheek region over several teeth. This pattern can be linked to the gradual use of larger labrets as individuals aging.

The importance of the lab in ancient times

Labrets has long had a cultural significance in different societies, which often symbolizes identity, status or rituals. With regard to Pavlovians, Willman proposes to carry the labret’s probably a marker for a group that belongs. In addition, the differences in dental patterns may indicate personal choice or milestones in life, such as puberty or marriage, which “served” individuals the right to carry them.
Although there are no significant risks with the labret, they can cause damage to teeth and gums if done incorrectly.