Flossing Day

National Flossing Day is observed in the United States on the day after Thanksgiving each year. It serves as an important reminder to clean between the teeth regularly. Traditional dental floss, floss picks, interdental brushes, and water flossers are among the tools available for this purpose.

History of National Flossing Day

The exact origins of National Flossing Day are unclear. The observance takes place after Thanksgiving to encourage people to pay attention to oral hygiene following a day often associated with large meals and sweet foods.

The history of modern dental floss dates to the early 19th century. New Orleans dentist Levi Spear Parmly recommended using waxed silk thread to clean between the teeth. In his 1819 book, A Practical Guide to the Management of the Teeth, he explained that a toothbrush could not remove all the material lodged in these narrow spaces.

Codman & Shurtleff began commercially producing unwaxed silk floss in 1882. Johnson & Johnson later received a patent for dental floss in 1898. During the 20th century, nylon largely replaced silk, and manufacturers introduced waxed, flavored, and specialized flossing products.

Interesting Facts About National Flossing Day

• Dental floss can clean areas between the teeth that an ordinary toothbrush may not reach effectively.
• Modern floss is available in waxed, unwaxed, flavored, tape-style, and specialized varieties.
• Floss threaders and other interdental tools can help people clean around braces, bridges, and dental appliances.
• Water flossers use a pressurized stream of water to clean between the teeth and along the gumline.
• The American Dental Association recommends cleaning between the teeth once a day with floss or another interdental cleaner.
• People with implants, braces, bridges, or other dental work should ask a dental professional which cleaning method is most suitable for them.

How to Take Part in National Flossing Day

• Clean between your teeth using dental floss or another interdental cleaner recommended by your dentist.
• Guide traditional floss gently between the teeth and curve it into a C shape against the side of each tooth.
• Avoid snapping the floss into the gums, which may cause discomfort or injury.
• Try floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser if ordinary floss is difficult to use.
• Ask a dentist or dental hygienist to demonstrate the proper technique for your teeth and dental work.

When Is National Flossing Day in 2026?

National Flossing Day is observed on the day after Thanksgiving each year.

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