Tutankhamun's Dentition: The Pharaoh and his Teeth

Area of Science:

• Paleoradiology
• Egyptology
• Forensic Anthropology

Background:

• Tutankhamun, an 18th Dynasty Pharaoh, underwent medical and radiological examination of his skull.
• Previous discussions noted potential maxillary prognathism, mandibular retrognathism, and micrognathism.

Observation:

• A cephalometric analysis was conducted using lateral skull X-rays of Tutankhamun's mummy.
• A literature review supplemented the radiological data.

Findings:

• The analysis diagnosed mandibular retrognathism in King Tutankhamun.
• Evidence of third molar retention and an incomplete, single cleft palate was identified.

Implications:

• These findings offer insights into the health and dental characteristics of ancient Egyptian royalty.
• The study contributes to understanding the prevalence of specific craniofacial anomalies in historical figures.