Today’s teeth whitening tips have come from generations of people trying to find the best ways to get the perfect smile. Ever since humankind has realized the importance of taking care of teeth, different kinds of teeth care methods have been invented.

The earliest teeth care methods existed primarily to take care of the health of the teeth. Our ancient ancestors first made tooth brushes in 3000BC, in the form of twigs with frayed ends called chewing sticks. They used these sticks very similarly to modern toothbrushes today, which remove trapped food particles from the teeth. Amazingly, many of the twigs they used had sap which contained anti-bacterial ingredients, which added further protection when rubbed on the teeth.

It took around 2000 years after the first toothbrush for the first toothpaste to be invented. The Egyptians mixed white vinegar with crushed powdered pumice, and turned it into a paste. The mixture is then used with chewing sticks, similar to how people use toothpaste with toothbrushes today.

Many centuries after the Egyptians, the Middle Ages saw the birth of commercialized teeth whitening. Around this time, people decided to not just have healthy teeth, but clean and beautiful as well. Unfortunately, the professional barbers who offered services used not-so-good methods. To whiten their patrons’ teeth, they used nitric acid, which, while cleaned plaque and whitened teeth, destroyed the teeth’s precious enamel. Many of the patients then eventually suffered tooth decay.

Despite this harmful practice, commercial teeth whitening became a thriving industry. In the 1800s, however, Italian dentists discovered an alternative to the harmful nitric acid, in the form of fluoride. Fluoride, which is now present in most toothpastes and teeth care products, is safe. It strengthens the teeth and prevents cavities. While it causes some blemishing to the teeth, it is a good trade-off.

The discoveries of the past have led scientists to develop the multitude of teeth whitening products we have today, such as teeth whitening gel, strips and pens.

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