Personal tooth cleaner with a “RE-VIRA / REG. U.S. PAT. OFF.” inscription on the handle. Neil McCloud Whittaker (1878-1963), a graduate of the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, devised a tooth cleaner that used disposable cotton pads rather than reusable bristles. He introduced the term “Revira” in 1924. He received a trademark in 1925, and a patent in 1926. He established the Revira Company in Ridgefield Park, N.J., and sponsored ads asking: “Do you sterilize your toothbrush?”
Ref: Neil McCloud Whittaker, “Toothbrush,” U.S. Patent 1,604,731 (Oct. 26, 1926).
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