6 Facts You Didn’t Know About Your Toothbrush

At Lil' Dente Pediatric Dentistry, we're all about keeping little smiles healthy and happy! But have you ever stopped to think about the toothbrush you use every day? It’s a small tool with a big job, and we’ve gathered some fun facts to help you appreciate it even more. Next time your child brushes their teeth, share these interesting tidbits with them.

1. Toothbrushes vs. Mobile Devices

Did you know that more people own mobile devices than toothbrushes? With nearly 8 billion mobile phones, tablets, and other gadgets around the world, there are actually more devices than people! Surprisingly, only about 3.5 billion people are estimated to regularly use a toothbrush.

2. The First Toothbrush

The first modern toothbrush is thought to have been invented by a prisoner in England. Around 1780, William Addis created a toothbrush using bone and bristles from pigs. This invention laid the foundation for the toothbrushes we use today.

3. A Tool with a Long History

Toothbrushes have been around in some form for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, and Chinese people all had tools for cleaning their teeth. The ancient Chinese even used “chewing sticks” made from aromatic tree twigs to freshen their breath as early as 1600 BCE.

4. From Animal Hair to Nylon

In the early days, toothbrush bristles were made from animal hairs, such as those from cows or boars. Thankfully, today’s toothbrushes use nylon bristles, a much cleaner and more effective material that’s been around since the 1930s.

5. What’s Your Toothbrush Color?

When it comes to toothbrush colors, blue is the most popular choice, followed closely by red. Next time you pick out a toothbrush, see if your favorite color is on the shelf!

6. A Bacterial Home

Your toothbrush is home to over 100 million bacteria! But don’t worry—your mouth also hosts millions of bacteria, and your body does a great job of keeping you healthy. Just remember to change your toothbrush every three to four months, and definitely after you’ve been sick or if you have a weakened immune system.

Now that you’re a toothbrush expert, make sure to brush for two minutes, twice a day. And don’t forget, regular dental check-ups are key to keeping your child’s smile in top shape. If you have any questions or need to schedule your next visit, contact Lil' Dente Pediatric Dentistry today. We’re here to keep your child’s smile bright and healthy!