Dental calculus in the industrial age: Human dental calculus in the Post-Medieval period, a case study from industrial Manchester

• DOI: 10.1016/j.quaint.2021.09.020
• Publication Date: 2021-10-01T07:04:29Z
• Authors: Lisa MacKenzie; Camilla F. Speller; Malin Holst; Katie Keefe; Anita Radini
• Keywords: 2. Zero hunger; 0601 history and archaeology; 06 humanities and the arts; Article

The analysis of dental calculus (mineralised plaque) has become an increasingly important facet bioarchaeological research. Although microscopic microdebris entrapped within revealed insights into the diet, health, and environment multiple prehistoric populations, relatively few studies have examined contributions this approach to more recent historical periods. In study, we analyze from English Post-Medieval, middle-class urban skeletal assemblage Manchester, England using light microscopy. We characterize all types microremains, observing heavily damaged starch plant material, high quantities fungal yeast spores, presence wood particles, (cotton) animal (wool) fibres, as well limited microcharcoal burnt debris. observe non-native, imported products, including New World maize potentially tapioca starch. compare our results similar earlier time periods reveal impacts significant economic, social environmental changes occurring during Industrial period in England, food processing, access, storage, air quality. conclude by outlining methodological considerations for future study Post-Medieval propose potential areas