Life — October 17, 1912 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily a **toothpaste advertisement**, not political satire. It promotes Pebeco Tooth Paste by Lehn & Fink, a real product from the early 20th century. The ad presents an "Acid Mouth" test using litmus paper—a legitimate (if now-outdated) marketing concept. The headline "Will the Test Paper turn pink?" refers to the paper changing color in acidic conditions. Consumers were invited to request free test papers and sample tubes. The advertisement claims Pebeco neutralizes mouth acid to prevent tooth decay, positioning it as scientifically advanced dentifrice. The emotional appeal suggests "decay" is an urgent problem most people face. This reflects early 20th-century advertising's use of pseudo-scientific claims and home testing kits to sell health products—a practice now heavily regulated.