We're told this gift of a small plastic rod with bristles means "I see a future with you." I don't know if it really means that, but I did want to reciprocate the clean-mouth courtesy to someone I cared for. I set out to buy him a toothbrush.
Given the cultural implications of said purchase and my dating history (checkered at best), heading to the drugstore to buy my first toothbrush for another person didn't scare me. I searched for one in his favorite color (green), and Goldilocks-ed my way through the aisle. Some were too big, too many gadgets; some too small, too cheap—he was worth more than some lame, generic instrument. Then I found the perfect one, ridged blue-and-white bristles on a lime green frame.
That weekend, he stayed over. "I got you a toothbrush," I said sheepishly. He smiled big and kissed me. "You are so sweet!" he said, and kissed me again. He likes when we brush our teeth together.
Now, opening my medicine cabinet, I see this bristled reminder and smile. I don't know what the cultural implications of that are. I just like knowing that, even in some small way, he's there.
3.
According to The 5 Love Languages, the ways people express affection are: quality time, words of affirmation, physical touch, giving gifts, and acts of service.
My dad, the pediatric dentist, adheres to the last two. That means every time I see him, he gives me a bag of toothbrushes benevolently embezzled from his practice.
"Use them well," he advises earnestly, which I never really understand. Maybe he means "often." Or maybe it's just something he says.
Regardless, I always appreciate the gesture and its underlying message: "I'm not sure how else to say this, but I really love you."
Those toothbrushes' initial significance evolves when I give one to a girl who makes the rather questionable, rather surprising decision to sleep at my apartment.
Convincing her to stay over is a weakness. Once she's there, however, I can exemplify two of my greatest strengths: hospitality and oral hygiene.
"Welcome! I'm happy to offer you a bed for the evening…along with a brand-new Colgate 360 equipped with interdental bristles and a cleaning tip! Why, take any color you please!"
Giving her a toothbrush is the least I could do, considering I have enough to last till I'm 40.
"Use it well!" I call eagerly as she scurries, equally eagerly, out the door in the morning.
What am I even talking about?
Any toothbrush stories of your own to share? What do toothbrushes say about your relationship? Let me know below.
