Even ancient Egyptians were in need of a good dentist.

In the sands of Saqqara, a new chapter of ancient Egyptian history has come to light with the discovery of a tomb belonging to Tetinebefou, a multi-talented doctor who served pharaohs more than four millennia ago. The tomb, beautifully covered with intricate carvings and vivid paintings, offered a glimpse into the life of a man whose titles read like a who’s who of ancient medical expertise.

Tetinebefou, as archaeologists have learned, wasn’t just any doctor. He was a “conjurer of the goddess Serket,” tasked with treating venomous bites, a “director of medicinal plants,” and the rare “chief dentist.” Philippe Collombert, an Egyptologist leading the excavation, said, “He was certainly the main physician at the royal court, so he would have treated the pharaoh himself.”

The tomb’s walls are painted and carved with images of objects the doctor might have used. Franco-Swiss Archaeological Mission of Saqqara

As researchers explored the tomb, they uncovered a wealth of vibrant artwork, including a beautifully painted false door and scenes of funerary offerings. The inscriptions inside the tomb shed light on Tetinebefou’s unique expertise, making him a significant figure in the medical landscape of ancient Egypt.

“The tomb is adorned with stunning carvings and vibrant artwork,” noted Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, emphasizing its importance in Saqqara’s archaeological legacy. This necropolis has long been a treasure trove for archaeologists, but Tetinebefou’s tomb stands out for its detailed depictions of the tools and containers that the doctor might have used. Though looters over the centuries have made off with many artifacts, the tomb’s walls still speak volumes. Painted scenes depict jars and vases, hinting at the medicinal practices that Tetinebefou might have pioneered.

Evidence for ancient Egyptian ‘dentists’ is exceedingly scarce,” explained Roger Forshaw, an Egyptologist not involved in the dig, highlighting the rarity of Tetinebefou’s titles.

Adding to the allure of this discovery is the association with Serket, the goddess known for her protective powers against scorpions and other venomous creatures. The title of “conjurer” underlines Tetinebefou’s role in safeguarding the royal court from such dangers.

The doctor may have served the pharaoh Pepi II. Franco-Swiss Archaeological Mission of Saqqara

The burial site, Saqqara, has seen countless discoveries, yet each new find like Tetinebefou’s tomb adds rich layers to our understanding of ancient Egyptian society. The ministry pointed out that this discovery unveils “new aspects of the culture of daily life in the era of the Old Kingdom.”

Despite the passage of millennia, the vibrant artwork and meticulous inscriptions have preserved the memory of Tetinebefou’s contributions to ancient medicine. His tomb not only honors his life but also underscores the sophistication of Egyptian medical practices, which were far ahead of their time.

As the dust settles on this extraordinary find, one can only imagine what other secrets Saqqara holds, waiting patiently beneath the sands to tell their stories.

Sources: Smithsonian | Good News Network