We use it daily. Sometimes twice a day. We’re taught how to use it at an early age and for most, it becomes a part of their daily ritual. I have a favorite brand of toothpaste…and chances are that you do as well. But have you ever wondered who invented toothpaste? Where it came from? How it’s made? Read on to learn more about the history of toothpaste.
Though most people still favor name brands of toothpaste like Colgate and Crest, some of our dental patients opt for brands like Supersmile or prefer alternative and organic toothpaste made of neem oil, charcoal, and baking soda.
Oral care has a colorful history, starring a variety of substances to cleanse and scrub the teeth. The Ancient Egyptians used a dental cream made of ground oxen hooves, myrrh, egg shells, pumice, and water. Ancient Greeks and Romans had an abrasive mixture containing crushed bones and oyster shells.
Around the same time, China and India were using a powder for cleaning their teeth but had the sense to add ginseng, herbal mints, and salt to help with the taste.
These types of rudimentary pastes and powders dominated oral care all the way until the 1850s when toothpaste became mass-produced. The most innovative moment, however, was when fluoride was introduced into the formula in the 1950s and 1960s.
Flossing and brushing your teeth with toothpaste are important parts of good oral hygiene and, along with regular dental checkups, will help ensure your dental and overall health.
Want to learn more about the history of toothpaste? Read more here https://goo.gl/X7QEYC
Have questions about your oral care or want to make an appointment? Call to book an appointment at our Brampton Dental Office at (905)-791-3867. You’ll be glad you did!
Based in Brampton, Dr. Robert Axelrad has been practicing dentistry for three decades. During this time, he has helped to improve the dental health of countless satisfied patients in Peel Region, Brampton and beyond!