A single molar can provide new clues about the knowledge and skills of the ancient Maya in dentistry. A study published (source in Spanish) in the journal 'Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports' analyses a lower first permanent molar with a jadeite inlay on its surface and concludes that the tooth was modified while the patient was still alive.
The tooth belongs to a pre-Hispanic osteological collection at the Popol Vuh Museum of Universidad Francisco Marroquín in Guatemala. The researchers found a well-defined cavity at the point where the four main cusps of the molar meet, in which the jade piece was firmly fixed with a cementing material.
