Microscopic and virtual approaches to oral pathology: A case study from El Mirador Cave (Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain)

Background: The analysis and diagnosis of ancient oral pathologies have been improved with the application of new techniques such as microscopy and scanning methods over the past few decades. However, the enhancement of the diagnosis implies a prior knowledge of the availability and suitability of such equipments. Methods: In this work we examined 3D digital and scanning electron microscopy and two computed tomography systems (CBCT and microCT) in order to assess dental and oral disease of the individuals of a Chalcolithic collective burial from El Mirador cave (Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain). Results and conclusions: 3D Digital microscopy and CBCT are excellent options to analyze dental pathologies as they are more frequently available, sample preparation is not required, easy to operate, offer excellent images and the possibility of measurements and 3D reconstructions.