Asians were the first to use bristle toothbrush. Specifically the Chinese were the first. Tang Dynasty people (619 CE to 907 CE) were the ones who invented the bristle toothbrush.
Dentists recommend that a toothbrush be kept at least 2 metres away from a toilet to avoid airborne particles resulting from the flushing – such as coliform bacteria (E. coli).
Europe came in contact with bristle toothbrush way later in 17th century CE. The Chinese travelers brought the toothbrush to Europe.
The first nylon bristle toothbrush, made with nylon yarn, went on sale on February 24, 1938.
Dentists say us to keep our toothbrushes at a distance of 2 meters from our toilets. Why so? So that airborne microbes and other particles don’t reach our brushes when we flush. For example, E. coli bacteria can easily reach our brushes if within 2 meters of toilet.
In 3000 B.C. the ancient Egyptians constructed crude toothbrushes from twigs and leaves to clean their teeth. The Greeks, Romans, and Indians cleaned their teeth with twigs too. They even frayed one end of the twig so that it could penetrate between the teeth more effectively.
Ancient cultures like Indians, Romans, Greeks etc. used frayed twigs for cleaning teeth. Fraying allowed the twigs to penetrate between teeth easily.
Until the early 1900s, toothbrush bristles were generally made of Siberian hog hair, but in 1938, the soft-bristled Miracle Tuft Toothbrush was invented. Within a decade, Oral-B was mass-producing soft-bristled toothbrushes.
Egyptians were known to use leaves and twigs as early as 3000 BCE for cleaning teeth.
The first mass-produced toothbrush was made by William Addis in England.
Siberian hog hair was used as toothbrush bristles till early 1900s. Miracle Tuft Toothbrush – a soft-bristled toothbrush was invented in 1938. By 1948, Oral-B was already into mass production of such soft-bristled toothbrushes.
Many mass-produced toothbrushes, made with horse or boar bristle, were imported to England from China until the mid-20th century.
Toothbrushes made with nylon bristles from nylon yard were first sold in 1938, February 24.
William Addis from England was the first to trigger mass production of toothbrush.
China used to export boar or horse bristle mass-produced toothbrushes to England till mid 20th century.
24% people share their toothbrush with their partners. 18% people have the habit of sharing their toothbrushes with their children. That’s fine. But sharing with friends or a celebrity? That’s true! About 7% people share with friends and about 6% will share their toothbrushes with a celebrity.
The first environment-friendly toothbrush was Hoke2 brush. The handle of the brush was not disposable. The bristle head could be easily replaced. This toothbrush was invented by Jack Hokanson.
Though brushing teeth everyday is really important, 1 out of 10 people actually forget to brush on a daily basis.
In 2003 Americans considered the toothbrush to be number one invention without which they cannot live.
Switzerland was the first nation to give electric toothbrush. The electric toothbrush was known as Broxodent and was first produced in 1954.
Before the use of nylons, badger hair was used for making expensive toothbrushes while pig hair was meant for cheaper ones.
People think that putting on a cap on a toothbrush is a good idea. Actually it is not. Doing so traps moisture and helps the growth of microbes.
There are about 2,500 bristles on an average toothbrush.
You can actually burn calories by using your toothbrush. Three times every day for 2 minutes each will help you burn 3,500 calories. This translates into losing 1 kg weight by brushing.
In United States, electric toothbrushes were sold since 1960.
Bristles of a toothbrush wear out within 6 to 16 weeks of usages. Worn out bristles don’t clean well and hence, replacing toothbrushes every 6 to 16 weeks is a good idea.
Though people do share there toothbrushes, it is not a good idea. It can lead to spread of Hepatitis C and other diseases that are transmitted through blood.
A person uses his/her toothbrush for barely 45 to 70 seconds. This is not a good idea. At least 2 minutes of brushing is recommended for each session.
After suffering from a viral infection or cold, it is a good idea to replace your toothbrush. This is because old toothbrush may still have the germs. Using the old toothbrush can lead to reinfection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Toothbrushes
The humble toothbrush is an essential tool for maintaining good oral hygiene. Here are some of the most common questions people search about toothbrushes:
Manual vs. electric toothbrush: Which should I choose?
Both manual and electric toothbrushes can effectively remove plaque and debris from your teeth if used properly. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
- Manual toothbrushes:
- More affordable
- Offer greater control during brushing
- May require more effort and technique for thorough cleaning
- Electric toothbrushes:
- Can make brushing easier and more enjoyable, especially for children
- Often have timers to ensure you brush for the recommended two minutes
- Some models have features like pressure sensors to prevent over-brushing
- Generally more expensive than manual brushes
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference, budget, and brushing habits.
What type of bristles should I use?
Most dentists recommend soft-bristled toothbrushes. Hard-bristled brushes can damage your gums and erode tooth enamel over time. Soft bristles are just as effective at removing plaque and debris while being gentler on your gums.
How often should I replace my toothbrush?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn. Additionally, you should replace your toothbrush after you’ve been sick to prevent reinfection.
How much toothpaste should I use?
For adults, a pea-sized amount of toothpaste is sufficient for effective cleaning. For young children, a smaller amount, about the size of a grain of rice, is recommended. Using too much toothpaste can cause children to swallow more than they should, especially with fluoride toothpaste.
How should I brush my teeth properly?
Here’s a basic guide for proper toothbrushing:
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time.
- Use a gentle back-and-forth motion, angled slightly towards the gumline.
- Brush the outer surfaces, inner surfaces, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
- Don’t forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.
- Rinse thoroughly with water after brushing.
Are there different types of toothbrushes for specific needs?
Yes, there are various toothbrushes designed for different needs:
- Children’s toothbrushes: Smaller heads and softer bristles suitable for smaller mouths and developing teeth.
- Sensitive toothbrushes: Extra-soft bristles for those with sensitive gums.
- Orthopedic toothbrushes: Designed for people with braces or other dental appliances.
- Travel toothbrushes: Compact and portable for on-the-go brushing.
How should I care for my toothbrush?
- Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with water after each use.
- Store your toothbrush upright in a well-ventilated area to allow it to air dry completely.
- Don’t store your toothbrush too close to other toothbrushes or in a closed container, as this can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth.
By following these tips and addressing common FAQs, you can ensure you’re using your toothbrush effectively to maintain good oral health. Remember to consult your dentist for personalized recommendations concerning your specific needs.
