It’s the holiday season again, and the perfect opportunity to give thanks for your oral health. This year, while you celebrate all the wonderful things that life has to offer, take a moment to learn more about how our indigenous and pilgrim ancestors cared for their own teeth, so you can better appreciate how much easier oral health care is today!
The Pilgrims
Back in 1620 when the pilgrims first made their way on shore in what is now Massachusetts, dentistry looked a little different than it does today. At the time, these travelers were still using primitive oral health tools like boars’ hair bristles fastened to twigs or bones. These tools may have helped a little bit, but they had no protection against bacteria like modern toothpaste does.
Indigenous Peoples
The native communities that first interacted with the pilgrims were no strangers to oral health. In fact, they had their own ways of taking care of their teeth. The Wampanoag people used sage as a combination toothbrush and toothpaste. Modern science has since discovered that sage possesses antimicrobial properties which kill bacteria and eliminate plaque!
Modern Day
Today you can give thanks that it’s a whole lot easier to care for your teeth than it was back in the 1600s, all the while paying homage to our ancestors for their early innovations in oral health by scheduling your own oral health appointment and protecting your smile from past and present damage.
Throughout history, oral health has always been important. Don’t let your ancestors down: remember to schedule your semi-annual exam and cleaning this fall before your dental insurance benefits reset when the clock strikes 2025!
About Dr. Elsaid
Dr. Sheren Elsaid always knew she wanted to help people. Initially, she wanted to be a doctor but realized that dentistry was her calling in college and has never looked back. Today, she is proud to provide compassionate oral health care to patients of all ages. Whether you need a filling, a root canal, a cosmetic procedure, or a preventive exam and cleaning, Dr. Elsaid and the team at Zen Dental Care are thankful for the opportunity to assist you and your family!
To schedule an appointment for your semi-annual exam and cleaning, please visit our website or call us today at 973-370-5221.