Why do Japanese women dye black teeth?

In ancient times, black teeth were considered a symbol of female beauty, popular among women of all social strata for centuries. In Japan, the practice of dyeing black teeth is called Ohaguro.

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Dyeing black teeth is a long-standing practice in Japan and therefore, women in Funeral Country practice this tradition and consider it a symbol of beauty.

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Not only unmarried women, married people also perform black teeth dyeing.

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This practice is popular in all walks of life from geisha, women to noble women.

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According to some historical documents, black tooth dyeing was popular in Japan around the Heian period (ie around 794 - 1192).

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In order to dye black teeth, ancient Japanese used iron powder soaked in tea or sake. When iron is oxidized, the liquid will turn black.

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To reduce the unpleasant smell of this mixture, some other ingredients such as cinnamon, star anise or clove grass are added.

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Next, women will drink the mixture and their teeth will gradually turn black. This is done by women every day or every few days to keep the color of the teeth.
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Not only is the symbol of beauty, ancient Japanese people also conceived that dental staining is beneficial for oral health.

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The custom of black teeth dyeing is thought to gradually disappear in the late 19th century.

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However, on February 5, 1870, Japan ordered a ban on the custom of staining teeth.Then, the new standard of beauty for women is bright white teeth.Since then, fewer and fewer women dyed black teeth.