Non-fiction book for adults by Bill Schutt with illustrations by Patricia J. Wynne. Algonguin Books of Chapel Hill: Chapel Hill, NC, 2024.
Schutt, a vertebrate zoologist, provides an overview of the evolutionary history of teeth and the myriad ways different animals, including humans, have developed and used their teeth. Teeth play important roles in the lives of vertebrates (creatures with backbones), including eating, defense, mating, communication, and manipulating one’s environment. As Schutt argues, “much of the diversity and long-term evolutionary success of the vertebrates can be attributed to their [teeth] presence” (p. 3). Also, because enamel is the hardest substance found in the human body, it can survive much longer than other body parts, leaving a more complete fossil record and allowing for forensic studies. In an engaging and accessible writing style for non-scientists, Schutt introduces the reader to unique and unusual toothy adaptations.
Although overall the book takes a more scientific bent in its approach, the final section focuses on human teeth and incorporates more of the social aspects. It includes a brief history of the rise of dentistry as a profession, a discussion of George Washington and his dental woes, the practice of dental implants, using teeth growth lines to study the diet and overall health of slaves in the U.S., the science behind fluoridation of water supplies, tooth worms and other oral health myths, and the presence or absence of wisdom teeth in certain populations. The final chapter explores new frontiers in dentistry, including regenerative fillings using stem cell technology, studying alligator teeth to explore ways to stimulate growth of new teeth in adult humans, and using the growth lines (perikymata) on baby teeth to help predict the likelihood of mental health problems in youth (and thereby mitigate them). This final section might have excerpts that would be useful for narrative dentistry workshops or class sessions. The following are also some quotes that could spark discussion:
“Human teeth also project information about the individual. A mouthful of well-formed teeth can portray vitality, power, wealth, and success, while misshapen or absent teeth can lead to the opposite assumption.” (p. 4)
“The reason Washington wore dentures that were uncomfortable and useless for eating had everything to do with his distinguished place in the newly minted American experiment in democracy. His ability to speak well and present a strong, attractive physical appearance were direct reflections of the nation’s character–this at a time when the new country could not afford to present itself as anything less than morally upstanding, smart-looking, and powerful. As commander of the Continental Army, and then as the first president of the United States, Washington was often called upon to address the men he commanded, crowds, and important leaders. This is something that would have been unthinkable without dentures, given his completely or nearly completely toothless condition. But even sporting a full set of dentures, Washington’s speeches were generally short in nature, which may reflect the difficulties wearing them.” (p. 205)
“There is strong physical evidence as well that dental disease was widespread among enslaved populations in the antebellum South. We know this primarily from the growing field of paleopathology, in which researchers learn about diseases in past populations by studying preserved hard parts like teeth and bones. . . Growth lines can be used to determine whether malnutrition or health-related disruptions occurred during the growth of the tooth. Evidence of disease or a developmental abnormality is commonly indicated by the presence of regions called hypoplasias (Greek: “under” + “formation”), where enamel is either missing or deficient, leaving pits or ringlike indentations that wind around the circumference of the tooth. Hypoplasias have been recorded in teeth from individuals dating back through the preindustrial period and into prehistoric times.” (pp. 207, 208-9)