Ra'ed I. Al Sadhan, BDS , Khalid Almas, BDS, MSC, DDPH.RCS, FRACDS, FDS RCSED, FICD
College of Dentistry, King Saud University,P.O. Box 60169, Riyadh 11545, K.S.A.

Miswak (chewing stick) was used by the Babylonians some 7000 years ago; it was later used throughout the Greek and Roman empires, and has also been used by ancient Egyptians and Muslims. It is used in different parts of Africa, Asia-especially the Middle East- and South America. Chewing sticks are used for oral hygiene, religious and social purposes. This article presents some of the different types of chewing sticks used around the world with special emphasis on the most commonly used plant in the Middle East, the Arak (Salvadorapersica). The Pharmacological and therapeutic aspects of Miswak and its role in plaque control, gingival recession, tooth wear, bleeding gums and periodontal health is discussed with reference to current literature. Finally, this review concludes with how to select and use the Miswak.

Saudi Dental Journal 1999;11(2):80-87.