‘Look before you Leap’: Lead in teeth known to reveal whereabouts

Geological researchers George Kamenov, University of Florida and Brian L. Gulson, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia, discovered that lead in teeth can reveal one’s origin and places inhabited during childhood.

Lead exists in the form of four isotopes that vary in proportion according to where it’s found like in the rocks, soil, etc. Differences are also seen in different geographic regions, owing to varied human activities causing their release in the environment.

These unique lead isotopes get trapped within the tooth enamel that develops during juvenescence and are preserved for eternity. This way one’s origin becomes coherent. As different teeth develop at different times, these lead isotopes can also divulge migration patterns of a person. Similarly, lead isotopes can also wield influence in distinguishing between historic and modern teeth, due to the differences that exist in the types of lead isotopes found in the earlier centuries. 

This lead has ruined me!............Where do I go now?!

This crucial finding can help solve cold murder cases or even help archeologists procure information about our ancestors.

P.S: Who knew human teeth could speak a thousand words! So, next time you plan a vacation with your kids, be cautious!