The invention of dental floss

Dental floss, an essential tool for oral hygiene, has an interesting history and development:

1. Early Use and Origin:

- The concept of cleaning between teeth dates back to ancient times. Evidence suggests that various materials, such as horsehair and twigs, were used to clean between teeth in prehistoric cultures.

2. Invention of Modern Dental Floss:

- The invention of modern dental floss is commonly credited to Dr. Levi Spear Parmly, a dentist from New Orleans. In 1815, Parmly introduced the idea of using waxed silken thread to clean between teeth. He advocated for this method in his book, "A Practical Guide to the Management of the Teeth."

- Parmly's recommendation was based on his belief that most dental problems were the result of food particles trapped between teeth.

3. Commercial Development:

- The first mass-produced dental floss was developed in the early 19th century. However, widespread usage and commercialisation of dental floss took some time.

- In 1882, the Codman and Shurtleff company began to market unwaxed silk dental floss commercially.

- In the early 20th century, Johnson & Johnson took a significant step by obtaining the first patent for dental floss in 1898. Their product was also made of silk, which was the primary material used for floss due to its softness and thin profile.

4. Introduction of Nylon Floss:

- The introduction of nylon in the 1940s by Dr. Charles C. Bass marked a significant development. Nylon floss was more resilient and less prone to shredding compared to silk floss.

- Nylon also allowed for the production of waxed floss and different sizes to accommodate varied spacing between teeth.

5. Widespread Use and Variations:

- Dental floss became more popular and widely used after World War II, particularly as preventative dental care gained more emphasis.

- Over time, various types of dental floss have been developed, including waxed and unwaxed versions, flavored floss, and floss made from different materials like Teflon.

6. Modern Innovations:

- Today, dental floss is an integral part of oral hygiene practices. Alongside traditional floss, there are numerous flossing aids available, such as floss picks, interdental brushes, and water flossers.

The evolution of dental floss reflects broader developments in dental science and a growing understanding of oral hygiene's importance. Regular use of dental floss is recommended by dentists worldwide for maintaining oral health, as it effectively removes plaque and food particles from areas that a toothbrush cannot easily reach.