Dental floss is a specially designed, thin, and flexible cleaning tool for maintaining oral hygiene. It is often made from durable materials like nylon or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This thin strand can easily slide into the narrow gaps between teeth, where brushes struggle to reach, making it possible to clean plaque (bacteria layer) and food debris.

Dental floss not only helps prevent tooth decay and gum diseases but also aids in reducing the risk of systemic health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. The impact of oral health on overall health is an area emphasized by modern medicine.

History

The use of dental floss dates back to prehistoric times. Research has found evidence of flossing or similar tools in prehistoric humans, with natural fibers like horsehair being used. The modern form of dental floss was proposed in the early 19th century, in 1815, by an American dentist named Levi Spear Parmly. Parmly recommended using waxed silk floss to remove plaque and debris from between the teeth. This suggestion was made to meet the need for mechanical cleaning in areas not accessible by toothbrushes.

In 1882, the firm Codman & Shurtleff produced the first silk dental floss through mass production, and in 1898, Johnson & Johnson obtained the first patent in this field. By the mid-20th century, during World War II, the high cost and fragility of silk floss led to the adoption of nylon floss. This transition was spearheaded by Dr. Charles Bass, who developed nylon dental floss, revolutionizing oral hygiene.

In the following years, both the materials and forms used in dental floss production have diversified. Examples of this diversity include waxed and unwaxed floss, PTFE (Teflon) based products, and floss picks with plastic handles. In the 1980s, interdental brushes were developed as an alternative to dental floss.

Usage of Dental Floss

Using dental floss is an important step in maintaining oral and dental health. First, about 45 cm (18 inches) of dental floss is cut and the ends wound around the fingers of both hands. Then, the floss is gently inserted between the teeth. It is wrapped around the sides of the teeth in a C-shape and moved up and down to remove plaque. A clean section of floss is used for each tooth gap to ensure hygiene.

Benefits

Using dental floss helps prevent tooth decay and reduces the risk of developing gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. It also helps reduce bad breath, contributing to the maintenance of general oral hygiene. Dental floss may also play a role in the prevention of systemic diseases.

Types

• Waxed floss: Its slippery surface allows easy entry between teeth.
• Unwaxed floss: Thinner and ideal for narrow spaces.
• PTFE (Teflon) floss: Resistant to tearing.
• Spongy floss: Suitable for use with orthodontic appliances like braces or bridges.
• Floss pick: A user-friendly dental floss with a plastic handle.