Objective
The aim of the study was to provide a paleopathologic and radiologic overview of the
jaws and teeth of 3 Egyptian mummies preserved in the Civic Museum of History and
Art in Trieste. Computerized tomography (CT) imaging and postprocessing techniques
were used to examine the oral structures.
Study design
A 16-slice CT scanner was used (Aquilion 16; Toshiba Medical Systems Europe, Zoetermeer,
The Netherlands). Scans were obtained at high resolution. Orthogonal-plane and 3-dimensional
(3D) reconstructions were created along with curved reconstructions of the lower and
upper jaws. Determination of decayed/missing teeth (DMT) and decayed/missing/tooth
surfaces (DMTs) were made with 3D images.
Results
Analyses revealed differences in the embalming techniques and state of preservation
of the bodies. Marked wear of the occlusal surfaces was a characteristic finding in
all of the mummies. The DMT and DMTs were low compared with values for contemporary
populations. Two mummies had fully erupted third molars. All mummies exhibited bone
changes consistent with periodontitis.
Conclusion
The CT evaluations of the oral structures of the mummies provided insight into the
dental status and oral diseases of these ancient Egyptians. The low DMT and DMTs values
and indications of periodontitis may be associated with the lifestyle of these Egyptians.
The fully erupted and well aligned third molars may represent a morphologic adaptation
of the arches to the muscular activity associated with grinding tough foods.
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
February 19,
2009
Received in revised form:
December 31,
2008
Received:
October 10,
2008
Identification
Copyright
© 2009 Mosby, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
