The most commonly used tool to clean the teeth, the toothbrush has been around for centuries. While numerous individuals have delved into toothbrush history, a variety of theories exist as to when the first toothbrush was actually created. This is partly due to the fact that the definition of the first toothbrush is often includes items such as chew sticks and twigs.
Toothbrush History: What Did People Use before the Bristle Toothbrush Was Created?
People have been cleaning their teeth for many centuries. After all, plaque buildup can become annoyingly irritating. Our ancestors have been known to use each of the following as implements for teeth cleaning: feathers, twigs, porcupine quills, and animal bones. The Egyptians used powders made from eggshells and ox hooves to scrub their teeth. The Greeks used cloth, and the Romans favored sticks.
Toothbrush History: the 15th Century
During the thirteenth century, the Chinese crafted handles from ivory or bamboo and attached animal hairs to them. Travelers to China would take these implements back with them to their own countries.
Toothbrush History: the 18th Century
Researching into toothbrush history has to include a long look at an Englishman by the name of William Addis. This individual spent some time in jail for his involvement in a riot. During his incarceration, he created a bone handle with holes at one end of it. He inserted bristles from a boar into the holes, securing them with wire. Once he left prison, Addis began to mass produce his implement, making a fortune in the process.
Toothbrush History: the DuPont Company
By 1938, the DuPont Company had created its first toothbrush, using nylon fibers in place of the hairs from boars. It worked better than the version created by Addis.
Toothbrush History: the 1960s
The Squibb Company produced one of the initial electric toothbrushes in 1960. Other companies specializing in dental products soon followed suit. Electric toothbrushes move the bristles for you, oscillating back-and-forth to efficiently remove the plaque and food debris from your teeth.
Toothbrush History: the Future
It is clear that more developments might be added to the tale of toothbrush history as manufacturers continue to explore innovative options for children and adults alike. If you check the stores, you might discover that one of the newest versions includes a “talking toothbrush.”
