The Bizarre and Dangerous Beauty Trends of Ancient Times

Tiny Smiles

There is a reason why the Mona Lisa has a small smile. Back in the Renaissance period, ladies with smaller mouths were considered more beautiful. That, and they typically smiled with their mouths closed because there was no formal dentistry. 

Smelling Like Urine

Back in ancient Rome, it was common for men and women to rinse their mouths with urine once a day. They believed that urine made your teeth whiter and cleaner, which we find important to clarify that it doesn't. They also believed that Portuguese people had the "strongest" and most desirable urine for rinsing. 

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The More You Know

  • Hippos have the largest mouths of any animal on land.
  • When a piece of bread is toasted, it's called the "Maillard reaction."
  • You can major in wine at Cornell University.
  • Only one NFL team has a plant for a logo.
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Post originally appeared on Upbeat News.