Recent analysis shows Neanderthals may have been first dentists in recorded history

One of the most dreaded terms in dentistry is “root canal,” but at least we get to enjoy the perks of modern medicine. Now, imagine enduring that painful process nearly 60,000 years ago. An international team of scientists believes they have found evidence that Neanderthals, the closest relatives of modern humans, deliberately drilled a hole in a lower molar tooth to remove infected tissue. The discovery represents the oldest known example of invasive dental treatment, and it occurred tens of...

By Kevin McSpadden