Dental floss was initially made from silk in the early 19th century. Today, it’s typically made from nylon or Teflon.
Dental floss has a surprisingly long and diverse history. While modern dental floss is typically made from nylon or Teflon, its origins trace back to much simpler materials.
The concept of using a thin filament to clean between teeth dates back to ancient times. Various materials were used for this purpose, including horsehair, silk, and even thin strips of plant fibers.
In the early 19th century, Dr. Levi Spear Parmly, a New Orleans dentist, is often credited with popularizing the use of dental floss. He recommended his patients use silk thread to clean between their teeth to prevent decay and gum disease.
However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that dental floss as we know it today began to emerge. In 1882, the Codman and Shurtleff Company patented an unwaxed silk dental floss. Later, in 1940, Dr. Charles C. Bass developed the first nylon dental floss, revolutionizing oral hygiene practices.
Since then, dental floss has become an essential tool in maintaining oral health, helping to remove plaque and debris from between teeth and along the gumline. Its effectiveness in preventing cavities and gum disease has made it a staple in dental care routines worldwide.
