Published January 18, 2026 | Version v1
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DENTAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL STATUS IN HISTORICAL SOCIETIES

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Dental health has long been influenced not only by biological and environmental factors but also by social and economic conditions. Throughout history, social status has played a decisive role in shaping access to nutrition, healthcare, and hygienic practices, all of which directly affect oral health. This article examines the relationship between dental health and social status in historical societies using archaeological, bioarchaeological, and historical evidence. By analyzing dental pathologies such as caries, periodontal disease, tooth wear, and antemortem tooth loss across different social strata, this study reveals clear patterns of inequality in oral health outcomes. The findings demonstrate that dental health functioned as both a biological indicator and a social marker, reflecting broader disparities in living conditions, labor demands, and cultural practices. Understanding these historical patterns provides valuable context for modern discussions of health inequality and social determinants of oral health.

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References

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