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

Abstract

Tooth brush has been an integral part of a daily routine across many cultures around the world from the times of antiquity to the 21st 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 21st 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.