A comprehensive dataset and image-set for exploring buccal dental microwear in late prehistory farming groups from northeastern Iberian Peninsula

Abstract

This data article presents a comprehensive buccal dental microwear raw database, accompanied by all corresponding archaeological sample micrographs acquired through a ZEISS Axioscope A1 optical microscopy (OM). The dataset includes teeth specimens from 88 adult individuals, representing eight distinct groups spanning the Middle-Late Neolithic to the Middle Bronze Age from the northeastern Iberian Peninsula. These groups include Cova de l'Avi, Cova de Can Sadurní, Cova de la Guineu, Cova Foradada, Cova del Trader, Roc de les Orenetes, Cova del Gegant, and Cova dels Galls Carboners.

The data collection process was based on the use of optical microscopy to obtain dental microwear patterns, with a specific focus on the buccal surface of the teeth. To facilitate future comparative studies, we have also included all the micrographs obtained with the optical microscopy and the processed images with the counted striations. The presentation of this extensive dataset sets a base for future research on dental microwear patterns and dietary variations across various prehistoric periods.