Toothbrush: The Origin of Stuff - Episode 1

What is the most personal item you own - one you don’t want
anyone else using?


For Katy Brand it’s her toothbrush. So how did the toothbrush
become one of life’s essentials?


With the help of resident public historian of Horrible Histories
fame, Greg Jenner, Katy goes back to ancient times, when the
toothbrush was merely a stick. But the brush, as we know it, only
came into being much later when a convict spied a broom in his
cell and had a bright idea.


But how has ingenuity and innovation shaped the toothbrush and
ensured its place in our lives? And given most are plastic, how
environmentally friendly is the toothbrush’s legacy?


Featuring designer and toothbrush collector, Sophie Thomas, and
advocate for clean teeth, Peter Dyer, Chair of Hospital Dentists
at the British Dental Association.


Producer: Beth Eastwood