Analysis of periodontal disease in the archaeological population of Dąbrówki (Poland) (16th–17th centuries)

Abstract

IntroductionPeriodontitis is a disease affecting a significant proportion of both modern and historical populations, and its development is largely associated with poor oral hygiene. Study aim The aim of this study was to assess periodontal status of the historical population of Dąbrówki (Poland), dated to the 16th–17th centuries. Material and MethodsThe study sample consisted of dental material from 24 individuals (12 females and 12 males), divided into three age groups (17–25, 26–35, and >36 years). The analysis was based on measurement of the distance between the cementoenamel junction and the surface of the alveolar bone, assessment of changes in the mesial and distal interdental septa, evaluation of architectural changes in the alveolar bone, and assessment of the possible presence of molar furcation. Results: Periodontitis was diagnosed in 75% (18/24) of the examined individuals, and pathological changes were identified in 28% (146/520) of the analysed teeth. The occurrence of the disease was related to sex, with periodontitis being statistically more frequent in males (46%) than in females (12%). An increase in disease severity with age was also observed. Conclusions: The results indicate that the population of Dąbrówki exhibited a lower frequency of periodontitis than other Polish populations from a similar historical period. One possible explanation is the rural character of the community, where dietary patterns may have differed from those of urban populations. Research on the Dąbrówki population is ongoing, and further analyses, including isotopic studies, are expected to allow a more comprehensive interpretation of the findings.