Little-known Facts About the History of the Toothbrush

Did you know that a large majority of people didn't regularly brush their teeth until after World War II? Soldiers in the Armed Forces were required to brush regularly during the war and, upon returning to the United States, brought the hygienic habit back with them and helped bring a breath of fresh air to the United States.

The ancient Babylonians are the first people on record to take care of their teeth in the year 3500 BC. They used "chewing sticks," which were really just like large toothpicks. Chewing on these sticks helped clear away food particles and freshen the breath. They could also be used like toothpicks to remove food from between teeth. Chewing sticks eventually evolved into the "chew stick," which was about the size of a modern-day pencil. These sticks came from trees that were known for their fresh aroma, which was then transferred to the mouth when chewing. People would chew on one end until it softened and somewhat resembled a brush. The other end was pointed and was still used like a toothpick to help remove food particles lodged in between the teeth. While chew sticks were sufficient at that time, they eventually evolved, as well.

The history of the modern-style toothbrush started in China. The exact date of this invention is unknown, but sources estimate its creation around 1400-1600 AD. These toothbrushes were created from bamboo and used hairs from a hog's neck as the bristles. William Addis of England had a similar idea, and he is credited as bringing the toothbrush to the mainstream. He thought that there must be a better way to brush teeth rather than using a rag to rub the teeth with salt and soot. He used an animal bone and tied bristles to it with wire. His invention was extremely successful and was widely used. H.N. Wadsworth, in 1857, was the first man to actually patent the ideas for the modern day toothbrush. Like William Addis, he also used bone for the handle and boar hair for the bristles of the toothbrush. Boar hair was not an ideal choice, however. The bristles would fall out and were not as sanitary as people would have liked. Boar hair was replaced with synthetic bristles in the 1930's. DuPont was the first company to produce a toothbrush with nylon bristles, which stayed in place better and were more hygienic. Broxodent was the first electronic toothbrush, and it was first released in the 1950's.

Since its early origins in ancient Babylonia, the toothbrush has been evolving. Going to the store to buy a new toothbrush today can be a somewhat overwhelming task. With so many different features and claims on what various toothbrushes can do, a person can become confused about which is the best toothbrush to use. Whitening teeth, removing plaque, reaching the farthest and massaging gums are some of the claims we are faced with. Regardless of which toothbrush is used, however, just remember that it is going to do a much better job than the early chewing sticks or rubbing your teeth with a rag, salt, and soot.