In ancient times, the story has it that twigs, bird feathers, animal bones, and porcupine quills were once used to scrub the surface of the tooth to give a perfect shine. In fact, some parts of the world still utilize the use of twigs (chewing sticks) to maintain good oral hygiene. This method is yet to go into extinction. Nevertheless, over the years, there have been new adaptive ways used to clean the surface of the teeth. One of those adaptive ways is the creation of toothbrushes on June 26, 1948.
From our research, toothbrushes were first created from coarse hairs from hogs back which were subsequently inserted into a bamboo handle. Ever since this first creation, there have several redefinitions of the looks and feel of a toothbrush.
Doctor West Miracle Toothbrush was the first nylon toothbrush created. Though, before it’s creation, oral hygiene was not considered as an important action but was tagged as necessary. It was sometime during the world war II the practice of oral hygiene became a compulsion for all.
Types Of ToothBrushes
Electric Tooth Brushes.
Quite affordable, these types of toothbrushes have been considered as most effective for brushing. A study has shown that these kinds of toothbrushes help to reduce the risk of plaques as well as the occurrence of gingivitis. They can be further classified into subgroups. These classifications are dependent on pressure and speed.
Interdental Brushes
These types of brushes are smaller in size. They are often disposable either supplied with a reusable angled plastic handle or an integral handle, used for cleaning between teeth and between the wires of dental braces and the teeth. The dentist often requires that you don’t use interdental brushes alone. You should use them alongside normal toothbrushes.
End-tuft brush
Though not popular, these kinds of toothbrushes appear as small round with several tufts tightly packed bristles. The handles are designed differently from our normal toothbrushes and have a firmer grip. They are sussed as a supplement to normal brushes as they tend to clean inner surfaces properly. Also, they are recommended for patients who are undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Chewable toothbrush
Just like the name, a chewable toothbrush is edible. They are specifically created for easy use. They are available in different flavors and often appear like bubble gum.
Here are some other interesting facts you should know about toothbrushes:
- In 1780, toothbrushes were first massively produced by a man named William Addis of Clerkenwald.
- On November 7th, 1857, an American, H.N Wadsworth was the first to patent a toothbrush.
- The first electric toothbrushes were made in 1960 by a company named Broxodent.
- In 2003, a toothbrush was regarded as the most acquired property in human life.
- Toothbrushes are expected to be kept away from a toilet. This is because the airborne microbes can infest the brushes during brushing.
- At least one in ten-person actually forget to brush their teeth regularly.
- Although putting a cap on your toothbrush sounds like a good idea, it actually traps moisture that can cause bacteria growth. Yuck!
Of a truth, recent innovations of toothbrushes have helped us keep good oral hygiene. However, there are other measures used to supplement these processes. Some dental organizations have gone ahead to celebrate the birth of toothbrushes while others have kept mute. At Smile360, we are celebrating this day as a dental clinic. We decided to give you a feel of the moment.
To celebrate this day, we have developed a quiz on the website to give you an oral hygiene check. Take the quiz, know your tooth brushing capabilities, and earn your reward.
