Popis: |
Nutrition, among other factors, significantly affects the quality and mineral composition of teeth. Dental health depends on systematic factors, among which are: digestion, absorption and metabolism of trace elements as well as local factors in oral cavity. Diet and lifestyle are linked with the teeth quality which has always been in the focus of dentistry. Having the ability to compare teeth originating from different parts of history and different lifestyles, we were curious to determine whether there is a difference in their mineral composition. Results showed that the mineral content in teeth has changed over the centuries. Between analysed samples, from Medieval period, Second World War period and recent period, there were significant differences in the elemental content as well as in the interrelationship of the elements. The largest differences were observed in the mean values of magnesium and zinc concentrations while the mean values of calcium and phosphorus less varied between the teeth groups. Since diet is the most important route of intake of minerals and trace elements, the obtained results can be observed in the light of changes in eating habits over the centuries. |