We have been thinking about toothbrushes and sustainability. Specifically, what were toothbrushes made of before they were plastic and if there are some good quality eco-friendly toothbrushes available now.
Early Toothbrushes
The earliest toothbrushes were found in China from the period of the Tang Dynasty (619–907) and adopted in Europe in the 17th century. The handles were usually bamboo or bone with hog hair bristles! Tooth brushes from these materials became mass produced and continued to be imported to England until the mid-20th century!
1600 BC – Chew Sticks
The earliest chew sticks were found from as far back as 1600 BC. These chew sticks were basically just a stick with a frayed end that would be used to clean the teeth.
1885 – Mass Production of Toothbrushes in the USA
In the United States, mass production of toothbrushes started in 1885. They were made with a bone handle and Siberian boar hair bristles. Wood or ivory was also used for the handle. Animal bristle was not considered ideal for the bristles because it may not dry out well and then could harbor bacteria.
1938 – Plastic Toothbrushes
The first nylon bristle toothbrush went on sale in 1938.
Eco-Friendly Options for Toothbrushes Now
The most common eco-friendly option around seems to be the bamboo handle with nylon bristles. Have you tried any yet? What do you think of them?
As of today, there aren’t any bamboo toothbrushes accepted by the American Dental Association or the Canadian Dental Association.
Kits Family Dental offers Philips toothbrushes with a replaceable head. It’s less waste than replacing a whole toothbrush each time.
Fun Facts – Evolution of the Toothbrush
In the United States, tooth brushing did not become routine until after World War 2!
Toothbrushes are sometimes now made with Bamboo viscose bristles. according to Wikipedia. We’d like to find and try these!
Toothbrushes with horse hair bristles or boar bristles were in use until the mid 20th century!
Contact Us!
Suites 207 & 209 – 2223 West Broadway | 604.738.1816 | info@kitsfamilydental.com
Read more on Wikipedia about the evolution of the toothbrush.
