The development of tooth paste began as long ago

[Duet062010]

The development of tooth paste began as long ago as 3000/5000 BC in the ancient countries of China and India.
Is the above sentence correct?

[Dozy]

"toothpaste" is normally one word.

I would prefer to say "in ancient China and India".

I would prefer to write "3000–5000 BC". "3000/5000 BC" tend to looks like there are two discrete options, 3000 BC and 5000 BC, which clearly can't be what was meant.

[Duet062010]

I also feel awkward with "countries of china and India".

I feel wrongness with this part. Is it really wrong?

[Dozy]

"the countries of China and India" is OK in itself. The reason I prefer "in ancient China and India" to "in the ancient countries of China and India" is because, to me, the latter seems to suggest that the countries "India" and "China" literally existed in 3000–5000 BC.