Flossing—yes, that quirky word that might make you think of something lodged in your belly button—is one of those oral health habits we’ve been told is essential. But is it really necessary? In this post, we explore the history, controversy, and environmental impact of dental floss, and we ask the question: do we actually need to floss?

A History of Flossing: From Parmly to Shurtleff

The story of dental floss begins in the early 19th century. Nineteenth-century New Orleans dentist Levi Spear Parmly (1790–1859) is widely credited as the father of modern dental hygiene and children’s dentistry. In his groundbreaking work, A Practical Guide to the Management of Teeth (1819), Parmly argued that removing foreign material from the tooth’s surface was key to preventing decay.

Fast-forward to 1874 when Asahel Milton Shurtleff of New Hampshire patented the first dental floss. Although not a dentist by trade, Shurtleff’s invention laid the foundation for the product we know today. His original design—dubbed “An Improved Pocket Thread Carrier and Cutter”—has evolved into the modern dental floss packaging we see on shelves now. For more on the fascinating history of dental care, check out the American Dental Association’s history page.

Flossing: Essential Habit or Overhyped Routine?

For decades, flossing has been promoted as a daily habit that cleans the spaces between our teeth—areas that our toothbrushes simply can’t reach. Many dentists argue that flossing helps prevent gum disease, cavities, and bad breath by removing food particles and plaque. Recent research published in the Journal of Periodontology even suggests that flossing before brushing may increase fluoride retention between the teeth and reduce plaque accumulation.

However, not all dental professionals are convinced. Some experienced practitioners believe that flossing is only marginally effective at removing debris and does little to change the overall bacterial composition of the mouth. Critics even compare flossing to “rubbing a piece of string up and down an infected finger,” potentially pushing bacteria into bleeding gums, which could, in theory, contribute to chronic inflammation. For more balanced insights on the benefits of flossing, visit the Mayo Clinic’s oral health section.

The Environmental Impact of Dental Floss

Beyond its debated efficacy, dental floss raises serious environmental concerns. Most commercial dental floss and floss picks are made from nylon or Teflon (PTFE), both of which are non-recyclable and non-biodegradable. These materials contribute to plastic waste and have been linked to health risks, including immune system impairment and reproductive issues. The adverse impact on marine life is also significant, as discarded floss adds to the plastic pollution choking our oceans.

Eco-conscious alternatives do exist—floss made from silk, hemp, or corn, packaged in refillable glass or stainless steel containers—but even these “green” options sometimes use plastic binders. For more information on reducing your plastic footprint, check out National Geographic’s coverage on plastic pollution.

Modern Alternatives to Traditional Flossing

If traditional flossing isn’t your cup of tea, you’re not alone. Many people opt for floss picks, water flossers, or mouth rinses containing xylitol, which not only help remove plaque but also promote a healthier oral microbiome. Xylitol has been shown to suppress harmful bacteria while nurturing beneficial ones—an approach that some dental professionals argue is more effective than flossing alone.

For further guidance on choosing the right oral care routine, consider resources from the WebMD Oral Health Center and the Colgate Oral Care Center.

So, Do We Really Need to Floss?

The answer isn’t black and white. While flossing can help remove food particles and may reduce plaque for some, its overall effectiveness in significantly improving oral health remains under debate. In the context of a comprehensive oral hygiene routine—including regular brushing, mouth rinsing, and dental check-ups—flossing might be seen as just one of many tools at your disposal.

For those with compromised oral health, or for individuals who enjoy the ritual of flossing, the practice can provide a sense of routine and cleanliness. However, if you’re concerned about the environmental impact or questioning its effectiveness, consider exploring alternative interdental cleaning methods.

Final Thoughts

In today’s post-truth world, it’s important to stay informed and make personal decisions based on the latest evidence. Whether you choose to floss, use an interdental brush, or switch to a water flosser, what matters most is that you maintain a regular oral hygiene routine and consult your dentist for tailored advice.

For more information on dental care and to read up on the latest research, visit reputable sources like the American Dental Association and Mayo Clinic.

Ultimately, the decision to floss is yours to make—just be sure you’re doing what’s best for your overall health and the health of our planet.