The Viking Age has long fascinated historians and archaeologists, offering a glimpse into the lives of these seafaring warriors. Beyond their legendary exploits, recent research conducted at the University of Gothenburg has unveiled a lesser-known aspect of Viking life: their surprisingly advanced dentistry practices. In this article, we will delve into the findings of the study conducted in Varnhem, Sweden, shedding light on how Vikings cared for their teeth, sometimes not unlike today's dental treatments.
A Glimpse into the Past
The archaeological site at Varnhem, Sweden, has been a treasure trove of Viking history, with thousands of graves dating back to the 10th to 12th centuries AD. Among the preserved skeletons and teeth, Carolina Bertilsson and her team embarked on a meticulous study of over 3,293 teeth from 171 individuals.
Advanced Techniques
To examine the dental health of the Viking population, the researchers employed a combination of clinical and radiographical examinations. The teeth were subjected to clinical inspections using standard dentistry tools under bright light, mimicking modern dental examinations. X-ray examinations were also conducted, similar to contemporary dental practices.
Surprising Findings
The study's results, published in the journal PLOS ONE, revealed that approximately 49% of the Viking population in Varnhem had one or more caries lesions. Surprisingly, 13% of adult teeth showed signs of caries, often affecting the tooth roots. However, children with milk teeth, and those with both milk and adult teeth, were entirely caries-free.
Tooth loss was also a common occurrence among adults, with an average loss of 6% of teeth over their lifetimes (excluding wisdom teeth), and this risk increased with age. These findings indicate that caries, tooth infections, and toothaches were prevalent among the Viking population in Varnhem.
To the left a row of teeth showing clear signs that the person has made diligent use of toothpicks. To the right filed front teeth. The purpose of filing is unclear, but may have been used as an identity marker for men. Photo: Carolina Bertilsson
Evidence of Care
Despite these dental issues, the study revealed signs of Vikings actively caring for their teeth. There were indications of toothpick usage, filing of front teeth, and even attempts at dental treatment for infected teeth. Notably, some molars had holes drilled from the crown into the pulp, presumably to relieve pressure and lessen excruciating toothaches brought on by infections. This technique closely resembles modern dental procedures, where infected teeth are drilled into for treatment.
Identity Markers
One intriguing discovery was the filing of front teeth, which may have served as identity markers, primarily among men. While the exact purpose of this practice remains unclear, it adds another layer to our understanding of Viking culture and societal dynamics.
The study conducted in Varnhem, Sweden, provides valuable insights into the oral health and dental practices of the Viking population. It challenges the perception that Vikings had primitive dentistry and suggests that their approach to dental care was more advanced and sophisticated than previously thought.
These discoveries serve as a reminder that history is a tapestry of intricate details just waiting for devoted researchers like Carolina Bertilsson and her team to unravel it. The Viking dentistry practices unearthed in Varnhem serve as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of this enigmatic culture, shedding new light on their daily lives.
