Restorative dentistry in Early Modern Scotland: archaeological evidence of the use of a gold ligature
摘要
The earliest known example of restorative dentistry from Scotland is described. A middle-aged adult male, who lived between 1460–1670 CE in Aberdeen, was observed to have a gold ligature fixed to the right lateral and left central mandibular incisors, forming a bridge for the potentially missing right central incisor. As this individual lived before the establishment of dentistry as a profession during the 19th century, the ligature was likely placed by a semi-skilled practitioner, such as a jeweller, barber, or dentatore. The archaeological and documentary evidence indicates he was a relatively wealthy member of the community based on his prestigious burial location, and that he was able to afford this type of dental work. Given the social importance of an individual's appearance during the Late Medieval and Early Modern era as an outward expression of their moral character, it is likely the rationale for undergoing this procedure extended beyond retaining masticatory abilities and oral function.