The Fascinating History of the World’s First Toothbrushes
Since humanity began caring about oral hygiene, the design and technology of toothbrushes have evolved considerably. Early attempts at dental care were rudimentary yet innovative for the time. In this article, we’ll explore how toothbrushes emerged and evolved, from their origins to modern inventions.
The Earliest Forms of Toothbrushes: Chewing Sticks
The first “toothbrushes” appeared thousands of years ago in ancient Egypt and Babylon, around 3500 B.C., in the form of “chewing sticks.” These were small twigs that, when chewed, frayed into tiny fibers that helped clean the teeth. Besides helping remove food particles and plaque, some of these sticks were made from plants with antimicrobial properties, making them a clever solution for the time.
These chewing sticks, known as miswak or siwak, are still used in some Middle Eastern and African cultures and are made from branches of the salvadora persica tree, which has natural antibacterial properties.
The First “Official” Toothbrush in Ancient China
The first version of the bristled toothbrush emerged in China during the Tang dynasty (7th century). The Chinese used bamboo or bone handles and inserted stiff bristles taken from the necks of pigs. This rough toothbrush with boar bristles spread to various regions and is considered the forerunner of modern toothbrushes.
Evolution in Europe
When this invention reached Europe in the 17th century, Europeans adapted the Chinese design but made some modifications. Boar bristles were considered too harsh and uncomfortable, so horsehair, which was softer, became the preferred choice. Still, toothbrushes remained luxury items, accessible only to nobility and the elite.
It was not until 1780 that William Addis, a British entrepreneur, created the first toothbrush for mass production. Using bone and cow hair, Addis’s toothbrush was similar to the ones we know today, with a long handle and a bristled head.
The Revolution of Modern Toothbrushes
From the 20th century onwards, toothbrush development progressed with the introduction of new materials, such as nylon, which replaced natural animal bristles. In 1938, the chemical company DuPont launched the first toothbrush with nylon bristles, marking the beginning of a new era in oral hygiene.
Today, toothbrushes come in various shapes and sizes, with different bristle types and even electrical and technological features to improve cleaning effectiveness.
