How Did Traditional Methods Of Toothbrushing Work?

Why Was Dental disease Not Rampant Before The Invention Of Modern Brushing Methods?

This is one of the most interesting questions that come up when discussing traditional toothbrushing techniques. The logical conclusion seems to be that either the traditional methods were very effective, the generations that came before us very resistant to dental disease or maybe even that modern brushing methods are not effective enough. The truth lies somewhere in between and is a combination of all these things.

Dental research has shown us conclusively that the most important thing to maintain oral hygiene is habit. Physically clearing away the plaque from the teeth by the use of chewing sticks prevented pathogenic micro-organism build up. Even though the chewing sticks are not the most dexterous and unable to reach to all the nooks and crannies of the oral cavity, they could provide a significant benefit when compared to no teeth cleaning at all.

All of these things helped prevent dental diseases from occurring. It is no surprise that in the less developed parts of the world, where such a diet exists even today, the incidence of dental disease is much lower.

Studies have found that chew sticks also provided benefit beyond simple mechanical action, and release certain compounds and chemicals that were antibacterial in nature, prevented the growth of bacteria specifically implicated in tooth decay and gum disease, and promoted an increased amount of salivation that helped flush out bacteria and debris from between the teeth.

Neem in particular also has a potent anti-oxidant effect that helps fight the free radicals produced by the micro-organisms and the body’s own defense cells. This would play a huge role in limiting the amount of inflammation of the gums and the associated damage that occurs as a result of inflammation.

What About Tooth Paste?

None of the cultures of the past actually used tooth paste for brushing while we seem to be inundated with different types of toothpaste all claiming to be invaluable in the fight against oral diseases. What gives? Toothpaste is a useful adjunct to tooth brushing and one that has become an integral part of our cultural habits, however it is not essential for tooth brushing.

Tooth pastes contain certain beneficial properties that help fight bad breath or augment the efficiency of cleaning, but the mechanical action of the brush scraping against the tooth is still the most essential part of maintaining oral hygiene. This is something that has not changed from time immemorial.

READ What to Do About a Gap Between Your Front Teeth

Conclusion  

It is quite surprising to go back and think about the ingenuity our forefathers had and the methods in which they overcame not having seemingly essential tools. The traditional methods of brushing were not as bad as one would imagine although they did cause an increased amount of abrasion, tooth wear and gingival injuries. There is however no doubt that the modern methods of brushing are superior to the ancient knowledge our forefathers possessed. Keep brushing your teeth, in other words.