Nutrition:
Teeth can reflect the nutritional status of an individual during their childhood. The presence of certain dental defects, such as enamel hypoplasia (pits or grooves on the teeth), can indicate periods of nutritional stress or illness during childhood. By studying the prevalence and severity of these defects in medieval Bavarian teeth, researchers can infer the overall nutritional status of children during that time. Additionally, stable isotope analysis of teeth can provide information about the individual's diet, including the types of foods they consumed and whether they had access to diverse food sources.
Migration:
Teeth can also provide clues about an individual's migration history. Oxygen isotope analysis of teeth can determine the geographic location where an individual spent their early childhood, as the oxygen isotope composition of drinking water varies across different regions. By comparing the oxygen isotope composition of teeth from individuals in medieval Bavaria with that of water sources in the region, researchers can identify potential migrants and trace their migration patterns.
In summary, teeth can reveal important information about childhood nutrition and migration in medieval Bavaria. By analyzing dental remains from archaeological sites, researchers can gain insights into the lives of children during this period, including their dietary habits and movement patterns.
