Dental Anthropology

The line of research in Dental Anthropology is focused on hominin dentition from the Pliocene, Pleistocene and Holocene. Classic studies on morphology and teeth dimensions are carried out, along with 2D and 3D morphometric analyses, based on techniques such as the computerized axial microtomography (μCT scan) of the enamel, dentin and pulp cavity. Based on such studies, which are complemented by research into other anatomical regions, inferences are made regarding the taxonomy, phylogeny, development and evolutionary scenario of these species.

The objective is to explore the possible taxonomic signal of the different traits studied and their value in researching the dynamics and settlement patterns of the past. In addition, this line is interested in the bucodental pathologies of early populations, as well as in studying dental tissues and how the dental development patterns of Pleistocene populations evolved, and their possible relationship with the characteristics of the life history pattern of early species.

Virtual anthropology based on the computerized microphotography (mCT) technique.
Phylogenetic studies: metric and morphological characterization of the dentition and proportion of dental tissue.
Sexual dimorphism: characterization of the proportion of tissue in past and present populations.
Dental histology. Inferences about the life history pattern.
Paleopathology of hominins from the Plio-Pleistocene and Holocene.
Evolutionary scenarios and Eurasian human population models during the Pleistocene.

Last updated: 20/06/2024