Have you ever wondered what people did before modern oral hygiene came into existence? Surprisingly, some versions of toothbrushes and toothpaste have been in existence for centuries. Even thousands of years ago, having a healthy mouth was important. Here’s a look at what people did before the advent of toothpaste.
Archaeologists have discovered evidence that oral hygiene tools have been in use for centuries. Egyptian papyrus documents from the 4th century even give an ancient recipe for toothpaste, which includes mint, salt, pepper and dried iris flower. Since the discovery of the papyrus, the iris has proven to be a useful agent in combating gum disease.
Before that, dating as far back as 5,000 BC, ancient Egyptians used powdered ashes from oxen hooves, egg shells, myrrh, pumice and water in a very abrasive (and most likely awful tasting) concoction that scrubbed away debris on their teeth.
During the Roman era, somewhere around 500, the Romans often used crushed bones and oyster shells mixed with added flavoring, such as powdered charcoal and bark. Meanwhile, in China and India, brushers used powder/paste as well, often including ginseng, herbal mints and salt in their recipes.
Surprisingly, examinations of teeth from early periods often reveal less incidences of tooth decay, possibly as a result of a diet much lower in sugar than modern diets.
Modern dentistry has come a very long way, and modern fluoride toothpaste is both more effective and better tasting than primitive versions. It’s also important to note that primitive cultures did not have access to oral care products like we do today. Toothpaste of any type was typically reserved for the wealthy, and the poor simply did without. Today, you can find several brands and types of toothpaste, almost all of which contain fluoride. Next time you’re brushing, be thankful that toothpaste has come such a long way!
Before There was Toothpaste…