When you look at dental floss, it might seem like a simple string, but it’s actually the result of hundreds of years of innovation. People have been cleaning between their teeth for centuries, but it wasn’t with the sleek twine you use today. If you’re curious about how the floss over your sink came to be, continue reading. You’ll learn the surprisingly fascinating and unusual story of its evolution.
Nature’s Toothpicks
Before floss was officially invented, people used whatever was handy to clean between their teeth. Twigs, feathers, and porcupine quills were all fair game. In some cultures, strands of horsehair or thin plant fibers served the same purpose. It wasn’t pretty, but it got the job done.
The First Official Floss
The first recorded mention of something resembling modern floss appeared in the early 1800s. A New Orleans dentist named Levi Spear Parmly recommended that his patients use a thin silk thread to remove plaque between their teeth.
His idea caught on slowly, but silk floss became the gold standard for decades. In 1882, Codman & Shurtleft began producing unwaxed silk floss, and in 1898, Johnson & Johnson patented silk floss to make it more accessible to everyday consumers. This mass production helped flossing move from a dentist’s recommendation to a household habit.
Nylon Changes the Game
In the 1940s, silk floss gave way to nylon thanks to World War II shortages. Nylon was strong, didn’t fray as easily, and could be produced cheaply. This change made floss more accessible to the average household and much more durable to boot!
The Modern Era of Dental Floss
Modern floss has come a long way from its twiggy beginnings. Today, you can choose from:
- Waxed and unwaxed floss for different preferences
- Polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) floss for easy movement between tight teeth
- Flavored floss for children and adults seeking a fresher experience
- Eco-friendly floss made from biodegradable materials
- Floss infused with fluoride or antibacterial agents for extra protection
If you have a preference for what goes in your mouth, how it’s handled, and how safe it is for the earth, there’s a floss that will fit your needs.
The Future of Flossing
With water flossers, disposable picks, and even smart flossers that track your technique, flossing is becoming more convenient than ever. Still, the classic string remains a reliable favorite for thorough plaque removal.
From horsehair and silk to space-age materials and high-tech gadgets, dental floss has evolved to be stronger, safer, and easier to use. The tools may have changed, but the goal remains the same—keeping your gums healthy and your smile bright!
About the Practice
Even small habits like flossing can make a big difference in your smile’s health. At Blue Coast Dental Group, we enjoy helping patients learn more about the tools they use every day, so they can keep their teeth and gums healthy for life. If you’re ready to get your smile into shape, call (310) 424-3100 to schedule a checkup and cleaning with our expert team. You can also visit our website to see a full menu of our services.