Occlusal grooves in anterior dentition among Kovuklukaya inhabitants (Sinop, northern Anatolia, 10^th century AD)

Abstract

Mesiodistally directed grooves have been observed on the occlusal surfaces of nine incisors of five females in a small skeletal population from Kovuklukaya (Sinop, northern Anatolia, 10 th century AD). There is no archaeological evidence to explain the cultural practices that must have caused such unusual abrasions of the anterior dentition. Investigations of the geographical characteristics of the region and data gathered on the traditional lifestyles of Ç ulhalı inhabitants enables us to reach meaningful conclusions about the Kovuklukaya people. According to the direction of the grooves, ecological characteristics of the region, and ethnographic data, it is proposed that the unusual abrasion observed in the Kovuklukaya population may be linked to passing yarn between the anterior teeth to wet it. The grooves in the Kovuklukaya population were found only in female skeletons, indicating the existence of a sex-based division of labour in yarn production.

Golfer and Tennis Elbow in Byzantine Turkey: Epicondylitis a Neglected Occupation/Activity Marker in Antiquity

“…This sequence of movements shows similarity to the movement system of the arms, during textile production on ground-looms. Mesiodistally directed grooves on the anterior dentition of females from Kovuklukaya were observed (Erdal, 2008). According to the unusual abrasion on anterior dentition and the ethnographic data, it is concluded that Kovuklukaya females used their anterior dentition during yarn production.…”

“…A Byzantine cemetery was at the top of the mound; measuring 70 m × 80 m. Thirty-six human skeletons were unearthed in 25 rectangular pits and cist graves (Erdal, 2008). The excavated skeletal series includes 17 males, 15 females and four subadults.…”

A review of trepanations in Anatolia with new cases

“…Depending on the boring‐and‐cutting techniques, five to 13 distinct drill holes were identified in Dilkaya (Güleç, 1987, 1989a,b) while nine to 10 distinct drill holes in Karagündüz (Sevim et al ., 2002). In the case from Perge (M6‐4.1), eight distinct holes were detected (Erdal, 2008b). Although the trepanations on this individual consisted of multiple holes, they were considered as examples of a single surgical operation.…”

“…However, the information on trepanation in Anatolia is generally based on the descriptions of single cases (i.e. Şenyürek, 1958; Angel, 1971, 1972; Alpagut, 1986; Angel & Bissel, 1986; Özbek, 1992; Güleç & Açıkkol, 2001; Erdal, 2006a, 2007, 2008b; Özbek, 1999a), or the discussion of examples from an archaeological site (Wittwer‐Backofen, 1986; Backofen, 1988; Sevim et al ., 2002; Erdal, 2005). Such studies have greatly contributed to the efforts of illuminating the existence of trepanation in ancient Anatolia and the possible reasons of these surgical procedures.…”

Trepanation and artificial cranial deformations in ancient Armenia

“…Such a pattern of wear is usually attributed to use of the anterior teeth in processing animal or plant material and differs markedly from the deformation found in Beniamin (burial 185). This feature of the teeth may be associated either with malocclusion, or with the use of teeth for a non-masticatory activity [Merbs 1983, Erdal 2008.…”