Toothbrush

Miswak, the first toothbrush in history, was known before Islam, but added a religious aspect to using it. The use of Miswak was popularized by Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) who recommended Muslims to clean their teeth using a Miswak daily. It is a teeth cleaning twing made from the Salvadora persica a tree (lnown as arak in Arabic) and is reputed to have been use for more than 7000 years. The Muslim practice of using a twing of Miswak to scrub one's teeth before each prayer is amongst the credible source which aided in inventing toothbrush.

Miswak not only has the chemicals for oral treatment that can help prevent tooth decay and hum diseases but the twing also acts as a brush that helps remove plaque and fights teeth coloring. This traditional alternative to modern toothbrush not only purifies the mouth, inhibits bad breath and increases salivation but also helps to protect teeth from gum. In 1987, World Health Organization encouraged the use of Miswak for oral hygiene because of tradition, availability and low cost.