Did you know that sources estimate only about 30% to 32% of U.S. adults floss their teeth daily? Although brushing alone can help remove harmful plaque and bacteria, it only addresses about of about half of built up residue. Flossing is needed to achieve a more thorough cleaning and prevent common oral issues, like cavities and gum disease.
But you might skip this step in your dental hygiene routine if you don’t know much about it. Continue reading to learn more about the history of how this product evolved over time to better understand how it helps protect your smile!
When Was Dental Floss Invented?
Historians have found evidence that some ancient civilizations used horse hair or picks to remove anything that had become lodged in their teeth, meaning dental floss might have been invented much earlier than you realized. But most people consider the earliest version to be the silk thread used by a New Orleans dentist, Dr. Levi Spear Parmly, in 1815. He included information about the importance of brushing and flossing daily in his published book, A Practical Guide to the Management of Teeth.
More and more people began using this method to help clean their teeth as a result, but dental floss wasn’t mass-produced until 1882, when the Codman and Shurleft Company developed and sold unwaxed silk string type. Johnson & Johnson then patented the ‘invention’ at after it had already been on shelves for years.
What Materials Have Been Used for Dental Floss?
Unfortunately, during World War II in the 1940s, the cost of silk (and many other materials) rose, so new solutions were needed to replace this soft material. Many people credit Dr. Charles Bass, often considered “the father of preventive dentistry”, with creating the first nylon floss that didn’t shred as easily as silk but could still glide smoothly between and across the teeth.
Then, to accommodate those with small gaps between their teeth, wax was added to the nylon for a thinner but more durable option.
Are There Contemporary Alternatives to Dental Floss?
Floss became more mainstream in the 1970s, and today, there are many options available to meet your unique needs. For example, it can be waxed or unwaxed, come in an assortment of appealing flavors, or come attached to a handle so it can be maneuvered around the mouth more easily. But some patients do better with oral irrigators, or water flossers, that rely on a gently pressurized stream of water to clean between their gums instead.
If you’ve been skipping flossing, you might try using different products to find the kind that works best for you!
About the Practice
Patients at Newton Corner Dental Care benefit from a team of providers eager to help them build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. They collaborate to deliver a complete menu of services, including dental checkups and cleanings, to meet the unique needs of people of all ages. Their compassionate approach, paired with state-of-the-art-technology, yields more comfortable, accurate treatment results meant to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (617) 329-5964.
