Did the ancients brush their teeth?
In fact, ancient people were very careful about their image, especially their oral hygiene.
We are reminded by our parents from a young age to remember to brush our teeth every day, and their parents remind them. Therefore, brushing teeth has been passed down from ancient times to today.
The history of toothbrushing of our ancestors can even be traced back to the Yin Shang period. The word "tooth" was found in the oracle bone inscriptions, and the word "caries" for caries was also found. The word "tooth" is obviously a pictograph, and the word "caries" can be seen in addition to the pictogram: small insects are born on the teeth.
There is ample evidence to prove that in the Yin Shang era, our ancestors already had tooth decay. In the Eastern Zhou Dynasty document "The Book of Rites", there is a record of gargling.
By the time of the Eastern Han Dynasty, ancient people had already realized that they had to brush their teeth before going to bed, but at that time there was no mouthwash, and salt water, water and specially prepared mouthwash were used. Coptis chinensis, astragalus membranaceus, and rhubarb are formulated to protect the gums and prevent fire. Before the invention of the toothbrush, ancient people used the index and middle fingers of one hand, dipped in medicine, rubbed on the teeth, and then brushed their teeth with the help of their hands.
Speaking of toothbrushes, this is also related to the Indian Asan.