These days, we don’t understand our day-to-day lives without a toothbrush (or at least, we shouldn’t). Oral cleaning is one of the essential healthy habits in our routine. The toothbrush makes everything easier, but how exactly does this instrument come about?
From Clínica Dental Bajo we want to go back years to find out what is the origin and history of this utensil without which we would not know how to live today. Or have you ever thought about how you would keep your mouth free of bacteria without your toothbrush?
The 1498 Toothbrush
We move to China at the end of the fifteenth century, where an emperor devised the first toothbrush with bristles of wild pig hair and a bone handle. Later, the hair of other animals such as pigs, horses or wild boars was used. Always coming from cold climates, where the coat was harder.
In the seventeenth century, travelers brought the primitive toothbrush to Europe. There it was received as a luxury item and was only used by the elite. The rudimentary toothpick continued to be the most used by people, and those who used the brush, decided to change the bristles for horsehair, since they were less strong.
Disadvantages of the primitive toothbrush
For starters, it was a handmade contraption, something that not everyone could afford. As for hygiene, although it could fulfill its mission, it is true that the deterioration of animal sows could be counterproductive for oral health.
Pierre Fauchard, considered the father of Modern Dentistry, made the first detailed dissertation on a toothbrush in 1723. In this process, it was shown that the use of horse hair for dental hygiene was not effective. For his part, he recommended cleaning teeth with natural sponges, stressing the importance of maintaining good hygiene.
At the end of the nineteenth century, the use of the toothbrush began to be universalized in the Western world. Its evolution, to date, has not only achieved its massive commercialization. The materials with which it is made have also been improved (and thank goodness). Nylon, which is resistant, flexible and antibacterial, was presented as the best option.
Luckily, today we have many advances to keep our mouth clean and healthy. From Clínica Dental Bajo we invite you to visit our website to learn more about our trajectory and our team of professionals.
Dental Hygiene and Technology in Los Cristianos: The Future of Your Smile
Fortunately, we no longer depend on tree branches or animal bristles to take care of our mouths; Today we have the most advanced technology in history to keep teeth flawless. However, even the most sophisticated modern brush on the market can’t reach the hidden corners where bacteria calcify and form tartar. At Clínica Bajo we combine the history of prevention with state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment to perform totally painless, precise and thorough dental hygiene. Make sure your current brushing routine gives the optimal result and schedule an appointment with our dentistry team in Los Cristianos. Give your smile the care of the 21st century and make your appointment today!
