Scientists Say a 59,000-Year-Old Neanderthal Tooth Shows Evidence of Surgery

Researchers say a 59,000-year-old Neanderthal molar from Siberia shows tool-made drilling marks.

The damage is consistent with intentional removal of diseased tissue using a stone tool, not ordinary wear.

Experiments on modern teeth helped support the interpretation published in PLOS One.

If confirmed, it would be the oldest known evidence of dental treatment and suggest Neanderthals could diagnose and ease pain.