The quest for whiter teeth spans centuries. A bright smile has long symbolized health, affluence, and good breeding. While oral hygiene was paramount for survival in ancient times, tooth whitening gradually gained importance. Ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Romans practiced oral care using “chewing sticks” – frayed twigs used to scrub teeth clean after meals. With dentistry nonexistent, maintaining healthy teeth was crucial. During the Middle Ages, barbers, known for their dual role of haircutting and tooth extraction (symbolized by the red and white striped pole reminiscent of drying bloodied and clean bandages), also performed tooth whitening. This was a status symbol, indicating access to ample food. Barbers would file teeth and apply corrosive nitric acid to achieve a luminous effect, though this damaged enamel and led to decay. Nitric acid remained popular until the 1800s when Italian scientists observed stain-free, cavity-resistant teeth in areas with high fluoride soil content. Research revealed fluoride’s crucial role in dental health. Fluoride was then added to drinking water in many regions, benefiting everyone, including those unable to afford toothpaste. This allowed dentists to focus more on tooth whitening, a more profitable endeavor. Today, tooth whitening is a thriving industry, offering diverse methods at various price points. Dentists emphasize preventative measures like limiting coffee, tea, tobacco, red wine, and certain medications. For those unwilling to abstain, numerous whitening options exist, from over-the-counter strips to advanced dental procedures (thankfully, nitric acid-free). While tooth whitening is globally accessible, and some still use chewing sticks, a radiant smile continues to signify what it always has: now less about health and wealth, and more about the importance of appearance.
Tooth Whitening Through History: Ancient Secrets to Modern Smiles
