Teeth blackening
Teeth Blackening
Teeth blackening or tooth lacquering is a custom of dyeing one's teeth black. It was most predominantly practiced in Southeast Asian and Oceanic cultures, particularly among Austronesian, Austroasiatic, and Kra-Dai-speaking peoples. It was also practiced in Japan prior to the Meiji era, among some ethnic groups in the Americas, the Pacific Islands, and in Southeast Asia.
Pronunciation
- Teeth: /tiːθ/
- Blackening: /ˈblækənɪŋ/
Etymology
The term "teeth blackening" is derived from the English words "teeth", the plural form of tooth, and "blackening", the gerund form of the verb "to blacken" which means to make or become black.
Process
The process of teeth blackening involves the application of natural dyes, often derived from plants, to the teeth. This is usually done over a period of days or weeks. The dyes used can vary, but often include substances such as tannins, iron salts, copper, or various organic compounds.
Cultural Significance
In many cultures, teeth blackening is seen as a sign of maturity, beauty, or status. It is often done as part of a coming-of-age ceremony, or to prepare for marriage. In some cultures, it is also believed to have health benefits, such as preventing tooth decay.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Teeth blackening
- Wikipedia's article - Teeth blackening
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