Lesson: The Toothbrush

The fact that tooth brushing is important not only for oral hygiene but also for overall health should be common knowledge. Something that may not be commonly known is the history of the toothbrush. Tooth brushing dates back to ancient times when people used frayed twigs to clean their teeth. The design and materials used for toothbrushes evolved over time, with Europeans using softer horsehairs for bristles in the 17th century. The mass production of toothbrushes began in the 1780s, and by the 20th century, the modern nylon-bristled toothbrush we are familiar with had been developed. Innovations in toothbrush design continue to this day, with electric and sonic toothbrushes offering new ways to maintain oral hygiene. The toothbrush’s history is a testament to human ingenuity and the ongoing quest for better oral care. Are you a manual or electric toothbrush user?