What's behind a smile?

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My latest blog is based on my article that was first published when I was working as a volunteer at an archaeological unit. It combined knowledge from a long career as a dentist and my interest in archaeology.

When we look at ancient skulls, it's easy to focus on the obvious – missing teeth, worn enamel, or cavities. But what if these remains could tell us much more about the lives once lived behind those smiles?

As I worked on the dental report for York Archaeological Trust's 'Plague, Poverty and Prayer' exhibition , I found myself thinking beyond the clinical. Teeth aren’t just tools for chewing – they’re storytellers.

From the chemical signatures in enamel, we can learn where someone came from. White patches on teeth, known as fluorosis, might hint at the water they drank in childhood. Defects like enamel hypoplasia – where less enamel forms – can point to childhood illnesses, poor nutrition, or even injuries from baby teeth damaging permanent ones.

Some conditions are startling. Congenital syphilis, introduced into Europe in the late 1400s, can leave unmistakable signs: V-notched Hutchinson’s incisors and misshapen “mulberry” molars.

Dental pain in the past must have been excruciating. Broken or decayed teeth made eating and speaking miserable. Caries (decay) could lead to pulpal death, pus, and bone destruction – all before painkillers or dentists could help. Gum disease, or periodontitis, slowly destroyed tissue and bone, causing teeth to loosen and fall out. Imagine living with that smell and pain day after day.

Even social and dietary habits left their mark. Malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies, sugar in the diet – they all played a role in shaping a person’s oral health. And while gums don’t survive the test of time, the bone underneath tells their story.

Teeth can reveal a person's age, health, and even moments of trauma. Before modern dentistry, people simply lived with the pain and consequences. Smiles were earned – or endured.

So next time you see an ancient jawbone on display, take a moment to imagine the person behind the smile. Their teeth may tell you more than you'd expect.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

You can follow me on Threads and Instagram @smart_phone_photographer_53. Also on my Facebook page 'Words and Frames'.

© Mike Young 2025.