It’s no secret that dental technology has evolved over the years to become more effective. In addition to the high-tech equipment we use in our office at Dental Solutions of Columbus, innovations in dental technology have event affected the humble toothpaste!
Ancient Beginnings
What if we told you that the first version of dental toothpaste was made from the powdered ashes of oxen hooves, burnt egg shells, pumice, and myrrh? Believe it or not, the earliest versions of toothpaste originated in ancient Egypt around 3000 BC. Like its modern counterpart, the paste was used to clean food residue and plaque from their teeth.
New Innovations
For many years after, toothpaste was an abrasive substance whose purpose was to scrape away any residue from the surface of teeth. Then, along came the innovate Roman and Chinese civilizations who began adding charcoal, bark, ginseng, mint, and salt to create a toothpaste that freshened their breath.
Modernization
In the 1800s, toothpaste began to resemble its more modern version. Dentists added soap to the recipe, and in 1873, toothpaste was mass-produced in jars and made more affordable. Then, in 1892, toothpaste was produced in its now ubiquitous collapsible tube.
Cavity Prevention
In the last hundred years or so, dentists have developed and refined toothpastes in order to combat cavities, gum disease, sensitivity, and other dental issues. Fluoride was also added in 1914 to help prevent cavities. Nowadays, toothpaste exists in flavors that run the gamut from bubblegum to bacon and is an important tool in your arsenal when it comes to fighting decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
No matter which flavor you use, be sure that you’re brushing twice daily for two minutes each time along with flossing daily to keep your teeth healthy and strong. To ask our friendly team any questions or to schedule your next appointment, call our office today.