In ancient China, people employed various methods for oral hygiene. While the concept of a bristle toothbrush as we know it evolved later, the Chinese developed effective techniques for cleaning their teeth.
A typical routine for oral hygiene involved gargling salt water or tea. This simple yet effective practice helped cleanse the mouth and refresh breath.
Over time, methods evolved. It became common in the Tang dynasty (618–907 AD) to use willow twigs. The practice involved soaking a willow twig in water before going to bed and then chewing on it the following morning.
The Willow Twig Method
- Soaking: A willow twig was soaked in water overnight.
- Chewing: The softened end of the twig was chewed.
- Cleaning Action: As the twig was chewed, the willow fibers would protrude like a comb and scrub the teeth clean. This created a natural tool for removing debris and polishing the tooth surface.
This method represents an early form of mechanical tooth cleaning, utilizing natural materials to achieve oral hygiene. While gargling provided a rinse, the willow twig offered a scrubbing action similar to a primitive toothbrush.
These practices highlight the ancient Chinese understanding of the importance of oral care, utilizing readily available resources to maintain dental health long before modern dental tools were invented.
