Tooth fractures in the Krapina Neandertals.

Area of Science:

• Paleoanthropology
• Bioarchaeology
• Dental Anthropology

Background:

• Dental fractures occur ante-mortem and post-mortem.
• Ante-mortem chipping can reveal diet, behavior, and non-masticatory activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically investigate dental fractures in the Krapina hominin collection.
• To compare ante-mortem chipping frequencies with modern human samples.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 293 teeth and tooth fragments from the Krapina collection.
• Systematic recording of fracture distribution, position, and severity.
• Standardized methods applied for comparison with modern human samples.

Main Results:

• High frequencies of ante-mortem chipping observed in both adult and subadult Krapina individuals.
• Chipping frequencies in Krapina sample are notably higher than in modern human samples.
• Chipping predominantly affects anterior teeth, particularly on the labial surface.

Conclusions:

• Krapina dentition experienced substantial mechanical stress.
• Anterior teeth were likely used systematically for non-masticatory purposes.
• Dental fracture analysis provides insights into ancient hominin behavior and activities.