What’s the first thing you do when you wake up? Brush your teeth! Without a toothbrush, most of us can’t kick start a great day. Dentists advise that this is also how we must end our day if we want our healthy white teeth to have a longer life span.
But have you ever wondered what people did for healthy teeth before the invention of the toothbrush? Let’s dive into history to find out!
The Babylonians and Egyptians realized in 3500 BC that chewing a twig at one end until it turned into a brush-like structure could give them fresh breath. China had a similar experience with aromatic twigs but only in 1600 BC. Though they had something to clean their teeth with, they didn’t know what to call it. The teeth cleaning device was christened in an autobiography of a French dentist in the year 1690. This was improved into a modern toothbrush in 1780 by William Addis. The amazing thing about this he did it while in prison in England. The uniqueness of the brush is seen in the use of cattle bone and swine bristles.
Moving on to the period of 1857 we saw the first patented toothbrush by HN Wadsworth in America. Then came a toothbrush with nylon and synthetic bristles in 1938 by DuPont. This made them realize that softer brushes are more hygienic than the hard ones. It was during the second world war that the American soldiers brought the habit of using a toothbrush with them. In seven years an electric toothbrush was introduced to the world which mechanized even the simple act of cleaning teeth every morning. This became such a favorite with the people that soon it became the number one invention that was irresistible! Now there are many verities of toothbrushes to take care of your oral hygiene. What would you choose for your teeth?
Infographics by: Mouthwash Products and the infographic is via SubmitInfographics.com