Science

Neanderthals May Have Drilled Teeth 59,000 Years Ago

Updated 2026-05-13 18:50 UTC 1 source Neutral

Scientists have discovered evidence suggesting Neanderthals may have performed a precise dental procedure by drilling out a cavity in a tooth around 59,000 years ago. This challenges previous assumptions about their cognitive abilities.

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NPR

Neanderthals may have drilled out a cavity 59,000 years ago

Scientists dug up a Paleolithic tooth that shows signs that these hominins may have been capable of executing a precise dental procedure.

2026-05-13 18:30 UTC