November 22

Flossing Day

Don't forget to floss! Take time for yourself on Flossing Day and keep your pearly whites healthy and sparkling.

Yearly Date
Fourth Friday in November
Type
Day
Category
Health

Introduction

It's time to show your teeth some love and get ready to floss on Flossing Day, which falls on the Fourth Friday in November! This day has been around since 2016, when it was first created to promote good oral hygiene practices. It's also a great opportunity for everyone to remind themselves of the importance of flossing every day and make it a habit. There are many fun ways you can celebrate this holiday and make it extra memorable – from brushing with a special toothpaste to flossing with friends. So go ahead and let your inner dentist shine through!

Flossing Day Timeline

1815
Floss Invention
New Orleans dentist Levi Spear Parmly recommends the use of silk thread as an interdental cleaner.
1882
Floss Commercialization
The Codman and Shurtleft company started commercially producing unwaxed silk dental floss.
1898
Floss Patent
Johnson & Johnson Corporation received the first patent for dental floss that was made from the same silk material used by doctors for silk stitches.
1940s
Nylon Floss
With the onset of World War II, the cost of silk rose substantially leading to the development of nylon floss.
2016
First Flossing Day
Flossing Day was first recognized as a way to encourage the practice of regular flossing for good oral hygiene.

How to Celebrate Flossing Day

1

Buy a new floss

From waxed to unwaxed, minty to fruity, there are a variety of floss types that can make your flossing experience more enjoyable. Pick up a new flavor or type of floss and celebrate Flossing Day.

2

Throw a flossing party

Invite your friends over for a relaxed evening of snacks, drinks, and flossing. Give out prizes for the most creative or effective flossers.

3

Make floss art

Grab some colorful thread and get creative! Use the floss to make cards, jewelry, decorations, and more. You can even add some glitter for an extra festive touch.

4

Floss while watching a movie

Treat yourself to some popcorn and a movie while you practice good oral hygiene. This is a great way to get in the habit of flossing every day.

5

Visit the dentist

Flossing Day is the perfect time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Get your teeth checked and pick up some tips on the best way to floss from your dental professional.

Why Flossing Day is Important

A

Flossing prevents gum disease

Regular flossing is essential to maintaining proper oral hygiene as it helps remove plaque that can eventually lead to periodontal (gum) disease. Not only will flossing help your teeth stay healthy and free of decay, it's also a good way to prevent more serious conditions such as gingivitis and tooth loss.

B

Flossing improves overall health

Gum disease has been linked to several other serious illnesses, such as stroke, diabetes, heart attack and even cancer. So by making sure you're flossing regularly, you can not only improve your dental health, but protect yourself from more serious ailments as well.

C

Flossing gives you fresh breath

Not only does flossing help keep your teeth looking their best, it can also give you fresher breath! Since food particles can get stuck between your teeth if left untreated, these leftover pieces can cause bad odors when they start to rot. Regular flossing will help make sure there aren't any nasty understandings hiding in hard to reach places.

Flossing Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Nov 23
Thursday
2024
Nov 21
Thursday
2025
Nov 27
Thursday
2026
Nov 26
Thursday
2027
Nov 25
Thursday