Many people think of dental floss as an optional supplement to brushing their teeth, but nothing could be further from the truth. Flossing every day is a key part of preventing gum disease and tooth decay because it can reach between the teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach. Here’s a brief history of dental floss, including who helped to invent it, how it has evolved, and how it helps people keep their smiles healthy and strong today.
Before the Dawn of Dental Floss
Even before floss was invented, people were concerned about food debris building up between their teeth. Ancient human teeth have been found at many dig sites across the world, and many anthropologists claim that marks left on these teeth mean that these people used pointed sticks and other utensils to clean the spaces between their teeth. These remains date back thousands of years before dentists figured out that flossing was a crucial part of daily oral hygiene.
The Invention of Dental Floss
Like the airplane and peanut butter, dental floss is a great American invention that has revolutionized some parts of the way we live. A dentist in New Orleans named Levi Spear Parmly recommended cleaning between the teeth with a length of silk thread in 1819. However, toothpicks were the most popular method of cleaning between the teeth.
A patent was awarded for a package that could carry and cut thread that was similar to the ones that are typically used for dental floss today. In 1882, the Codman and Shurtfelt Company based in Randolph, Massachusetts marketed the first dental floss, which was unwaxed and made of silk. Since silk was expensive, Dr. Charles C. Bass invented nylon dental floss and advocated for its daily use. This wonderful dental health tool became a household item after World War II.
Dental Floss in Today’s World
Today, dental floss comes in many forms that can fit different people’s particular needs. It can come in waxed or unwaxed varieties as well as several flavors to make the experience more pleasant. If traditional spools of floss aren’t for you, other options include floss picks and water flossers that can reach between your teeth to clear away plaque and food debris.
Dental floss is an essential part of a proper daily oral hygiene regimen. Developing a flossing habit can help keep your teeth and gums in great shape for life.
About the Practice
Baldwin Family Dental provides outstanding dental experiences to the community of Panama City, FL. Led by Drs. A. Faris Waheed, Amanda M. Panousis, and Alan Diep, the staff ensures that each patient receives compassionate oral health care and top-notch customer service. Areas of expertise include preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. For more information on the importance of flossing, contact the office online or dial (850) 215-0128.