The example of Rhodesian man, who was approximately 35 years at time of death, had severe caries but physiologically adaptive attrition and periodontal status. Hypoplasia was not evident. Extensive caries seems to have occurred in the absence of modern bacterial strains and refined carbohydrates. It is suggested that the dentition was highly susceptible to caries because of a deficiency in elemental composition. Of the teeth examined, only the central incisors were free of caries and apparently resistant to disease. It is postulated that, as dental disease progressed, the Rhodesian man's diet changed and his techniques and abilities in processing food developed.