5 Fun toothbrush facts

5 Fun toothbrush facts

When you think about your toothbrush, how much do you know about it? Dr. Haight has compiled a list of toothbrush facts you should be aware of.

1. The number of phones and toothbrushes – It’s believed that more people own and use a mobile device than those who own and use a toothbrush. With 8 billion mobile devices, the world has more mobile phones, tablets, and other gear than people. However, only 3.5 billion people are estimated to use a toothbrush.
2. History of the toothbrush – The toothbrush as we know it today was not invented until 1938. However, early forms of the toothbrush have been in existence since 3000 BC. Ancient civilizations used a chew stick, which was a thin twig with a frayed end.These ‘chew sticks’ were rubbed against the teeth.Ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, and Chinese crafted tools for cleaning their teeth.
3. The first toothbrush with bristles – The first “toothbrush” (with bristles) was invented in China around 1498 and was made of animal bone, bamboo and hog hair. The bristles were very hard, coarse hairs taken from the back of a hog’s neck and used until 1938, when nylon bristles were introduced by Dupont de Nemours.The first nylon toothbrush was called Doctor West’s Miracle Toothbrush.Later, Americans were influenced by the disciplined hygiene habits of soldiers from World War II. They became increasingly concerned with the practice of good oral hygiene and quickly adopted the nylon toothbrush.
4. Toothbrush technology – The modern-day toothbrush is typically constructed out of a plastic handle and nylon bristles. The modern day toothbrush handle comes in many varieties, including handles that are straight, angled or curved. Toothbrush heads also come in a variety of shapes and sizes for people of all ages and sizes.
5. The most toothbrush color – Blue is the most common toothbrush color. The second most popular color is red. No matter what color you use, be sure it is a good quality, medium-soft bristle brush that will reach all your teeth at all angles.

Learn more

If you are uncertain about toothbrushes check with your dentist to learn which bristle strength is best for you. Be sure to brush for two minutes twice each day. Contact our office to schedule your next visit today. Now that you know about toothbrushes and need a dentist, contact Haight Family Dentistry or a dental office near you for the first available appointment.