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

NPR News · May 13, 2026, 6:30 PM · Also reported by 1 other source

Why this matters: a developing story that could shape the day's news cycle.

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

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Ars Technica Neanderthals drilled cavities to treat a toothache 59,000 years ago

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

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