Development of the Toothbrush
The toothbrush is one of the most important inventions in history. It has made it possible for people to clean their teeth and keep them healthy. In fact, the first toothbrush was invented in China over 2000 years ago!
Learn more about the development of the toothbrush and how it has changed over time. If you’re ready to find the right kids dental office, schedule an appointment at Kids Choice Dental in Aurora, Wheat Ridge, Denver, and Lakewood!
–
–
The First Versions of the Toothbrush
The toothbrush has come a long way since its humble beginnings. Early versions of the toothbrush were more like scrubbers, with bristles made from stiffer materials like hog hair attached to a bone or bamboo handle.
These early brushes were not very effective at cleaning teeth and often caused gum irritation. It wasn’t until the late 1800s that the toothbrush began to look more like the brushes we use today.
–
–
The 1900s
In the early 1900s, new materials were developed for toothbrush bristles, including nylon. This allowed for softer, more flexible bristles that were better at cleaning teeth and less irritating to gums.
The first nylon toothbrush was invented in 1938 by DuPont chemist Wallace Carothers. He also created neoprene, another synthetic material used in a variety of products today.
During World War II, the U.S. government commissioned several companies to produce toothbrushes for soldiers. This helped to increase the popularity of toothbrushes among the general population.
–
–
The Modern Toothbrush
Since then, the design of the toothbrush has continued to evolve. Today’s toothbrushes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with different types of bristles to suit every need. Now, there is a toothbrush for every age and stage of development, from soft bristles for babies to tough bristles for adults.
–
No matter what type of toothbrush you use, it’s important to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time. This will help remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth, keeping your smile healthy and sparkling!
Kids Choice Dental is a kids dental office serving kids in Aurora, Wheat Ridge, Denver, and Lakewood. We offer a variety of dental services for children, including teeth cleanings, braces, and crowns. Contact us today to schedule your child’s appointment!