Let’s Talk About Toothbrushes
May 4, 2022
Do you ever give your toothbrush a second thought? You use it twice or maybe just once a day (we hope twice), but do you really know all you need to know? We've gathered a collection of fun toothbrush facts as recommended by a reputable dentist in North Miami Beach. Recall these facts the next time you clean your teeth.
Fun Facts About Your Toothbrush
Origin
An inmate in England is thought to have developed the first modern toothbrush. Yup! You read that right. It was William Addis who made a toothbrush from swine and bone circa 1780.
Creation of Other Dental Tools
Long before the swine-bristled toothbrush was created by Mr. Addis, the Chinese, Babylonians, and Ancient Egyptians devised implements to clean their tooth. As early as 1600 BCE, the ancient Chinese utilized "chewing sticks" to freshen their breath. Some of the old-aged techniques to clean teeth include chewing on bark or sticks with porcupine quills, fish bones, feathers, and frayed ends. Needless to say, we’re glad we have the toothbrush around now.
There Might Be More Mobile Phoners Owners Than Toothbrush Owners
It’s possible that more people have phones than toothbrushes. With roughly 8 billion tablets, cellphones, and other devices, the world now has more technologies than people. But it is believed that just 3.5 billion individuals use a toothbrush, compared to the roughly 4 million mobile phone users.
What Exactly Are the Bristles For?
Bristles for toothbrushes were formerly made mostly of cow or pig hair. Nylon is the preferred material nowadays and has been since the 1930s. Choose a toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles, whether you use an electric or manual toothbrush. Brushes with soft bristles are considerably better for your gums and teeth.
When you brush your teeth with a medium or hard bristles brush, you risk damaging your tooth enamel. Likewise, the surfaces of your tooth roots may accidentally be injured. This is precisely the reason why the American Dental Association only recommends soft-bristled brushes. Moreso, clinical studies have shown that soft bristles with rounded tips can effectively remove food particles and plaque without inflicting damage to your teeth or mouth.
Does the Color Matter?
The most popular toothbrush color is blue. Red is second. But does it matter? Obviously, no. Using a purple or orange-colored toothbrush will not help you achieve good dental health. However, choosing one's favorite color for a toothbrush may help when it's the kids who use it, as it can give them a little extra motivation. Aside from this, what is important is the type of bristle you use.
Bacterial Haven
Your toothbrush is home to over 100 million microorganisms. Because your mouth, like your toothbrush, is a bacterial haven, you don't become sick every time your mouth gets in contact with your toothbrush. Your body is capable of combating these bacteria, but if you don't change your toothbrush regularly or you share it with someone else, you risk contracting an illness.
Raise awareness about the necessity of frequent brushing now that you've become a toothbrush expert. Make it a habit to brush at least two minutes twice a day. According to the American Dental Association, you should replace your toothbrush every three to five months. You can also replace your toothbrush if you have recently been sick or have a weaker immune system.
Tips From an Esteemed Dentist in North Miami Beach
To know more about toothbrushes and how to properly clean your teeth, visit Danowit Dental!