– 1498
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People used chew sticks, toothpicks, and even cloths to clean their teeth.
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They rubbed sulfur oil, salt water (saline), or baking soda on their teeth.
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They even frayed one end of a twig from a nice-smelling bush or tree to clean their teeth and freshen their breath.
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But, until this day in 1498, people didn’t brush their teeth.
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The Emperor of China patented a toothbrush made of bamboo with stiff hogback bristles attached at right angles to the bamboo. Tooth hygiene was much easier with a brush rather than a stick, and word of the invention traveled back to Europe and, eventually, all over the world.
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Celebrate! Buy new toothbrushes today!
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Did you know you should…
- use a toothbrush with soft nylon bristles.
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- change your toothbrush every 3 to 5 months, plus after every cold or flu.
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- clean your toothbrush with running water after each brushing and allow it to air-dry in an upright position without contacting other toothbrushes.
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For more tips, click here.
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