Dental Tartar Analysis: A Novel Approach to Monitoring Drug Use

Abstract Teeth serve as a vital connection between the human body and the external environment, preserving valuable biological and chemical records within dental tartar. The mineralized plaque, or calculus, accumulates biomolecules, microorganisms, and chemical residues, offering significant insights into diet, health, and substance use. Recent advancements in ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) have enabled the analysis of dental tartar for toxicological investigations. This approach allows for the detection of various substances, including medicinal compounds, narcotics, and environmental toxins, expanding the scope of forensic anthropology and archaeological research. By integrating mass spectrometry with bioarchaeological methodologies, researchers can reconstruct past human behaviours and enhance forensic casework where conventional biological samples are unavailable. This paper explores the implications of dental tartar analysis in forensic and archaeological contexts, emphasizing its potential for reconstructing ancient medicinal practices and substance use.