Watch: Was Black Teeth A Sign Of Beauty In Japan?

Ohaguro, translating to "blackened teeth," was a prominent practice in Japanese culture, particularly during the Heian period (794-1185). This tradition involved blackening the teeth by applying a special dye, known as Kanemizu. Boys and girls would adopt this custom at the age of 15, marking their transition into adulthood. The process entailed soaking iron filings in tea or sake, which turned black upon oxidation. This mixture was then ingested, resulting in blackened teeth.

Symbolism and Aesthetic Appeal

The blackened teeth signified beauty, sexual maturity, and readiness for marriage among women. Ohaguro was especially popular among wealthy married women during the Edo period (1603-1868). The striking contrast between the blackened teeth and the white-painted faces of women made their smiles visible from afar. Despite being outlawed in 1870, Ohaguro persists in theatrical plays, movies, and some contemporary practices among geisha and certain rural communities during special celebrations.

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Practical and Health Benefits

Beyond its cultural significance, Ohaguro had practical and health benefits. The dye was believed to protect against dental problems, strengthening teeth and gums. This practice was not unique to Japan but was also prevalent in countries like Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, and China, where it sometimes accompanied other body modification traditions such as tooth sharpening and tattooing. Early European visitors often misinterpreted blackened teeth as a sign of poor dental hygiene.

However, the aesthetic of blackened teeth was highly regarded in Japanese society, aligning with the cultural appreciation for objects with a deep, lacquer-like blackness. Historically, Ohaguro has been documented in various literary works, including the 12th-century "Genji Monogatari," indicating its significant role in Japanese culture.

Methods of Blackening Teeth: Traditional Techniques

The traditional method involved soaking iron filings in tea or sake, which would turn black when oxidized. Practitioners would add spices like cinnamon, cloves, and anise to reduce the harsh taste of the dye. In other parts of Asia, people used coconut husks to obtain the dark dye. When burned, coconut husks form a black sticky char that is combined with nail filings and applied to the teeth. The Vietnamese used a red resin derived from the secretions of a tiny insect that sucks the sap of a tree.

Comparison to Modern Sealants

In 1870, the Japanese government outlawed Ohaguro, but the practice can still be seen in theatrical plays and movies. These days, actors use ink and tooth wax to achieve the look. The practice can still be found in other areas of Southeast Asia among traditional tribes. Interestingly, the material used in Vietnam and Laos to stain teeth was found to inhibit the growth of bacteria that produce acids causing tooth decay, working similarly to modern dental sealants.

Historical and Cultural Context

Ohaguro dates back as early as the Kofun period, with excavated bones and clay figures (haniwa) showing traces of blackened teeth. Throughout history, Ohaguro has been mentioned in various literary works and folk tales, indicating its significant role in Japanese culture. During the Edo period, Ohaguro was mainly practiced by wealthy married women and geisha. Even today, in places like Kyoto, it is not uncommon to see a maiko (apprentice geisha) with blackened teeth.

Western Misinterpretations and Modern Perspectives

During the end of the Edo period and the beginning of the Meiji era, Japan was visited by Western foreigners after almost 200 years of seclusion. Many visitors, used to Western beauty standards, were shocked to see women with black teeth. Some thought the Japanese had poor dental hygiene, while others wondered why Japanese women would "disfigure" themselves with Ohaguro. Modern Japanese social scientists dismiss theories that Ohaguro was done to prevent women from cheating on their husbands, emphasizing instead that the tradition showed maturity.

Ohaguro in Contemporary Culture

Despite being banned in 1870, Ohaguro can still be seen in theaters, movies, and among geisha in Kyoto. This ancient beauty standard remains a fascinating part of Japanese history and culture.

Ohaguro Bettari: The Black-Toothed Ghost

For those who find blackened teeth disturbing, there is a yokai (Japanese demon) called "Ohaguro Bettari." This spirit appears as a beautiful woman in a kimono, but when approached, she reveals a terrifying face with eyeless sockets and a mouth full of sharp, black teeth.

Ohaguro is a fascinating cultural practice with deep historical roots, practical benefits, and significant aesthetic appeal. Its legacy continues to be celebrated in Japanese culture and beyond.