Culture affects every aspect of life, including societal behaviors, community customs and personal choices related to family and health. Oral hygiene and dental care are no exception, and whether it’s the use of chewing sticks for natural cleaning, herbs like cloves and neem, or more extreme measures from antiquity to today, a wealth of traditions have existed surrounding the smiles and teeth of billions of people. While some cultures emphasize dental care and aesthetics in greater or safer measures than others, we will examine the root of these practices and beliefs and consider dental hygiene practices in America and around the world.