How Toothpaste Was Invented

Because Danville Family Dentistry, located in Hendricks County, is committed to providing patients with the very best dental treatment, we stay in the know about the ever-changing field of oral healthcare.  Overall, dentistry is definitely an exciting field of study with a rather entertaining history. For example, have you ever thought about the invention of toothpaste?
You might be amazed to learn that toothpaste originated 6,000 years ago in Egypt, China and India. The Egyptians came closest to achieving “minty fresh breath.” Their toothpaste included crushed rock salt, dried iris flowers, pepper and mint. In later years, they “improved” their toothpaste by adding ox-hoof ashes and burnt egg shells. By the time the Romans got interested in oral hygiene, they decided that toothpaste should actually be stirred up with urine as a base ingredient. Then they added crushed bone and oyster shells. Because of the ammonia compound in urine, the Romans viewed this repulsive ingredient as a great cleanser for the pearly whites. In fact, until the 18^th century, urine was an important ingredient for toothpaste as well as mouthwash.
In 1924, a well-known dentist named Dr. Peabody added soap to the toothpaste, hoping that it acted as an additional cleanser. But toothpaste wasn’t actually a paste at all. It was a powder. In 1850, chalk was added to this tooth cleanser which soon became available as a cream or paste rather than a powder. In 1873, Colgate was launched. Their mission was to commercially offer a urine-free, pleasant-smelling toothpaste in a jar. A few years later, Colgate manufactured toothpaste in a tube.
In 1914, fluoride was added to toothpaste as an extra effort to strengthen teeth while also preventing tooth decay. By 1987, Rembrandt made another addition to the world of dental hygiene by introducing a teeth whitening formula.
Today, there are many toothpaste choices on store shelves. Some toothpastes are created solely for people with sensitive teeth. Some toothpastes provide tartar control. Other types target cavity protection. The next time your Hendricks County kids complain about brushing their teeth, remind them how happy they should be about their toothpaste options!
Remember … Dr. Jon Erickson wants you to brush your teeth at least twice a day for good oral hygiene. And schedule a professional cleaning at Danville Family Dentistry’s Hendricks County office twice a year by calling 317-745-4400.