All ears for teeth: ancient toothbrush cleaned more than pearly whites.(Health News)

Some people consider the toothbrush one of the most important inventions. Today, we take brushing and flossing for granted, but can you imagine what your life would be like without a toothbrush?

Double Duty

Scientists recently found evidence of what could be Europe's oldest toothbrush. They unearthed the 250-year-old artifact in Germany. An artifact is an object made by a person.

Although the bristles had rotted away, the toothbrush's 4-inch-long handle, made from animal bone, was intact. The other end of the brush was carved into a tiny spoon.

Scientists think the ancient tool served double duty. They believe that people used the tiny …