Toothbrush with horn handle, England, 1870-1900

Toothbrush, horn handle, nickel plated brass stem, felt head

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Toothbrush, horn handle, nickel plated brass stem, felt head
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Toothbrush, horn handle, nickel plated brass stem, felt head, probably English, 1870-1900

Since 1800, the toothbrush has been the most popular way to clean teeth. Made from horn and nickel-plated brass, the head of this toothbrush is made from felt. Felt headed toothbrushes were advertised as softer toothbrushes than those made with animal bristles. Modern toothbrush heads are made from nylon.

Details

Category:
Dentistry
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A619229
Materials:
horn, felt and brass
Measurements:
overall: 11 mm x 160 mm x 15 mm, 0.01kg
type:
toothbrush