While we use toothpaste daily, it is not often something we give consideration to unless our tube is almost empty. But how did this substance come to be? While modern toothpaste has only been available in recent decades, it was preceded by many other teeth cleaning substances. The guide below explores some of this history. 

Early Toothpaste

A form of toothpaste was invented before the toothbrush and, therefore, had to be abrasive. Egyptians back in 5000 B.C. used a mixture that included ox hooves, myrrh, eggshells, pumice, and water. It was meant to be rubbed on the teeth with a rag or a finger to scrub away plaque and food particles.

Similar substances were made in China, Japan, Greece, Rome, and Iraq, with ingredients as diverse as bone, charcoal, crushed shell, and bark with ginseng, mint, and salt for flavor.

Over time, these pastes and powders were increasingly used with frayed sticks as toothbrushes, helping people keep their mouth as clean as possible without formal dentistry.

Modern Toothpaste

The first true modern toothpaste was called Kolynos, derived from a Greek phrase meaning “disease prevention.” It appeared in 1908, containing ingredients like fluoride, sorbitol, and glycerol while remaining stable and fresh in a tube, whereas earlier attempts had a tendency to spoil.

World War II brought a boom in chemistry which resulted in the basic toothpaste we use every day for teeth cleaning. New whiteners, preservatives, gels, and other variations and ingredients have come in a dazzling array for the last 70 years.

Newer additives include triclosan, an antibacterial and antifungal ingredient that helps fight infection and decay, and hydroxyapatite, which coats teeth in a layer of reinforcing synthetic enamel rather than strengthening existing enamel.

From past to present, toothpaste has helped smiles stay healthy, clean, and bright.

 

For exceptional dental care in the Columbus, NE, area, count on Stadler Dental Care. Dr. Andrew Stadler and his team have been committed to compassionate dentistry since 1999, informed by the most cutting-edge knowledge of dental medicine. Learn more about their offerings on their website. Call (402) 564-4093 to schedule a teeth cleaning appointment.