Is daily flossing actually necessary for your oral health or just a persistent myth?

Health · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: For decades, dental professionals have urged us to floss daily to prevent gum disease. Yet, recent systematic reviews suggest the scientific evidence supporting this habit is surprisingly weak. We explore the origins of the practice, the controversy behind its clinical efficacy, and why your dentist still insists on it.

The concept of flossing dates back to 1819, when New Orleans dentist Levi Spear Parmly advocated for using waxed silk thread to clean between teeth. Commercial production began in 1882, and by 1898, Johnson & Johnson secured the first patent for silk floss. It was not until World War II that physician Charles C. Bass introduced nylon versions, which offered superior durability and abrasion resistance. By the 1970s, flossing had become a standard fixture of personal hygiene in North America.

Despite its ubiquity, the clinical backing for flossing is contested. While the American Dental Association suggests it can remove up to 80% of plaque, systematic reviews paint a more ambiguous picture. A 2008 review found no significant benefit over brushing alone for reducing gingivitis, and a 2019 analysis of 35 randomized control trials concluded that the available evidence is of low to very low certainty. Many studies suffer from high risks of bias, and researchers note that the effectiveness of the practice is heavily dependent on individual technique and motivation.

The debate reached a boiling point in 2016, dubbed 'Flossgate' by some industry insiders, after the US government omitted flossing recommendations from its Dietary Guidelines. Officials clarified that the exclusion was not a rejection of the practice's efficacy, but rather a result of the advisory committees failing to review the relevant evidence. While the general population may see limited results, dental professionals maintain that for specific groups—particularly those with orthodontic appliances like braces or bridges—interdental cleaning remains essential to manage plaque and prevent periodontal decline.

Ultimately, the utility of floss often comes down to anatomy and dexterity. It is most effective for individuals with tight embrasure spaces where a toothbrush cannot reach. While some studies show modest improvements in gingival health for those who floss correctly, the consensus remains that recommendations should be tailored to the individual rather than applied as a universal mandate.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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