Tag: Dental calculus

Archaeological evidence from dental calculus reveals that Neanderthals ate a variety of plants, challenging the myth of a meat-only caveman diet. So, what was the diet of the distant ancestors, and how did it change over millions of years of human evolution?

Over 70% of a person's oral bacterial count is in plaque, which can harden into dental tartar, a substance that is absolutely not edible. This fact immediately clarifies the common and very important confusion surrounding the query, "Why is tartar ok to eat?" The answer is that dental tartar is not, but a different kind of 'tartar,' steak tartare, can be, given strict culinary precautions.

Over 70% of the population experiences some form of tartar buildup during their lifetime. Dental tartar, also known as calculus, is the hardened version of dental plaque that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay if left untreated. This hard, mineralized deposit is primarily caused by specific minerals found naturally in your saliva.

Recent archaeological evidence, including analysis of dental plaque and charred food remains, has revealed that early human diets were far more complex and plant-based than once assumed. This new research provides definitive answers to the question: did the first humans eat vegetables?

For decades, the popular "Paleo diet" has promoted the idea that our prehistoric ancestors avoided grains, but emerging archaeological evidence from ancient teeth and tools is telling a different story. These findings confirm that early humans and even Neanderthals consumed wild cereals and starchy plants as a vital food source.

Statistics show that untreated gum inflammation, often caused by tartar buildup, has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease and other systemic issues. This hard, mineralized deposit of plaque is not merely a cosmetic issue; understanding what does tartar do to your body is critical for overall health.

Did you know that an estimated 68% of adults have dental tartar? The persistent myth asking if tartar is good for health is not only false but dangerous, as this hardened plaque can lead to serious oral and systemic issues if left untreated.