The practice of painting teeth black, known as “ohaguro,” has a long history in Japan, dating back to at least the Heian period (794-1185). While it may seem strange to Westerners, the practice held great cultural significance and was considered a sign of beauty and maturity among Japanese women.
There are several theories as to why this practice originated, but the most widely accepted one is that it was a way to distinguish noblewomen from commoners. In ancient Japan, black teeth were associated with aristocracy, as only wealthy and powerful families could afford the materials and time required to perform the elaborate dental procedure. It was also believed that blackened teeth made a woman’s lips and mouth appear more attractive, as the contrast between the dark teeth and white skin accentuated her features.
Another theory suggests that ohaguro was a way to prevent dental decay and tooth loss, as the black dye contained tannin, a natural astringent that can help prevent bacterial growth and tooth decay. This was particularly important in a time when dental hygiene practices were not as advanced as they are today.
The process of blackening teeth was a lengthy and intricate one. First, the teeth were cleaned and polished with a special powder made from burnt eggshells and vinegar. Then, a sticky paste made from iron filings and tea was applied to the teeth and left to dry for several hours. This process was repeated several times over the course of several weeks, until the desired level of blackness was achieved. Finally, a protective coating of vegetable lacquer was applied to the teeth to seal in the dye and protect it from wear and tear.
While ohaguro was primarily associated with women, it was also practiced by some men, particularly members of the samurai class. Samurai would often blacken their teeth before going into battle, as a way of intimidating their enemies and showing their bravery and commitment to their lord.
The practice of ohaguro continued to be popular throughout the Edo period (1603-1868), but began to decline in the Meiji period (1868-1912), as Japan began to modernize and adopt Western customs and fashions. Today, ohaguro is considered an outdated and somewhat taboo practice, and is only seen in certain traditional contexts, such as geisha performances and Shinto weddings.
In conclusion, the practice of blackening teeth in Japan has a long and fascinating history, rooted in cultural traditions and beliefs. While it may seem strange or even unappealing to outsiders, it was a sign of beauty, status, and maturity for many Japanese women, and was seen as an important part of their identity and cultural heritage.
