The Evolution of A Tooth Brush: From Antiquity to Present- A Mini-Review

Abstract

Tooth brush have been an integral part of a daily routine across many cultures around the world from the times of antiquity to the 21 st century. A variety of cultures across the world have used many different materials from certain tree twigs like "Neem" and "Miswak" to bird feathers and pig hair. While the essential function of the tooth brush which was to mechanically cleanse the mouth has remained the same over the ages, the 21 st century is looking to embrace technology to redefine what the "tooth brush" can do. In this mini review we present a historical background of the toothbrush and how it has evolved over the years and what are the future possibilities that can help understand people's brushing habits that can be used to develop public health programs.

Toothbrush, its design and modifications : An Overview

“…Using modern ergonomic designs and safe and hygienic materials, toothbrush has evolved to become a scientifically designed tool that benefit all of us during its long history. (7) Types of toothbrushes (8)…”

“…Most recently, DiamondClean TM by Philips boasts a redesigned handle and high-density, diamond-shaped bristles that should improve cleaning and whitening. (18) Differences in Power Toothbrush Technologies (5,7,18) Three variables which can distinguished commercially available power toothbrushes are : Brush head, Power source, Cleaning technology modality.…”

Status Quo in Mechanical Plaque Control Then and Now: A Review

“…An Aromatic twig of plant called Miswak was also in wide use as a toothbrush in Middle eastern region. A twig of plant from the Salvadoraceae family of plants was also used commonly as an alternative to Neem; it was chewed until its ends frayed [5][6]. Historians trace the evidence of the first toothbrush to be developed by China in 1498 C.E.…”

“…The bristle brushes were reinvented lately in the 18th and early 19th centuries. Lately, in 1930s, nylon filaments, which were less expensive, replaced natural bristles, and plastic and wood replaced the bone handles; later in the year 1960, soft nylon bristle brushes came into existence [5][6]. Electric toothbrushes were first introduced in the early 1960s.…”

Internet of Things—A Novel Innovation in Dentistry

“…After teeth scanning, patient's brushing method/patterns, brushing time, pressure applied, salivary pH can be obtained from the sensors. 29 Intraoral teeth photos can also be clicked and transferred to the dentist.…”