Ancient teeth cleaning tips
Arak branches have the same cleaning effect as a toothbrush, and also have antibacterial properties to prevent tooth decay.
Most people use toothbrushes, toothpaste, and dental floss to clean their teeth. However, many people in some regions have their own traditional ways of cleaning their teeth.
Use arak branches
People in the Middle East and some parts of South-Southeast Asia use branches of the arak tree (miswak tree) to brush their teeth.
To brush your teeth with an arak twig, peel off the bark at one end of the twig, exposing the bristles inside the bark that look a lot like toothbrush bristles, then soak the bristles in water or rose water. Simply rub the twig bristles directly on your teeth without using water.
Arak wood has high concentrations of fluoride and other antibacterial components that prevent tooth decay.
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Rub the hairs of the arak branch directly on your teeth without using water to clean your mouth. |
In addition to the arak tree, other aromatic twigs have been used in many regions for thousands of years. The first twig used to brush teeth appeared in Babylon around 3500 BC, and in China around 1600 BC.
Some studies have shown that using tree branches can clean teeth as well as a regular toothbrush. However, experts say this method cannot reach between teeth and if not used properly can damage gums and wear down teeth.
Use your fingers
In other regions, people rub natural ingredients directly onto the surface of their teeth with their fingers. For example, Muslims rub walnut bark on their teeth. Walnut bark has antibacterial and whitening properties. However, there is no research to prove the effectiveness and side effects of this bark.
People in some regions of India, Africa, Southeast Asia, clean their teeth with brick powder, mud, salt or ash. These ingredients are effective in removing stains and plaque, but do not contain fluoride and are abrasive, easily damaging teeth and causing gum degeneration.
Charcoal powder - a traditional tooth cleaning ingredient is also used today. Some modern toothpastes and toothbrushes contain charcoal powder, which has been shown to clean and kill harmful bacteria.
Betel and areca nut
Betel and areca nuts, traditionally used as toothpaste in Southeast Asian countries, have been shown to cause yellowing of teeth and gums. Not only that, betel and areca nuts increase the risk of oral cancer.
Oil pulling
Oil pulling is a popular Ayurvedic practice in India. It consists of a small amount of coconut, sesame, sunflower, or olive oil. A recent study found that oil pulling is believed to clear bacteria and toxins, and combined with daily flossing can help reduce gingivitis.
