I don’t know who thought up the idea that there should be a world record for the most number of people flossing on a single length of dental floss – but it does exist. Let me clarify that this is not as disgusting as it sounds – the single length of dental floss was huge and everyone got their own little section!

Over 1500 people joined in the attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Records previous record of 1,470 people flossing simultaneously at an elementary school in North Carolina. The officials from Guinness will take a while to make the record official. They have to certify the 10,000 ft length of dental floss, look at photos and forms in order to finalize their decision. We should hear in about 4-6 weeks.

Back in July, Colgate-Palmolive got 1,142 people to simultaneously swish in New York’s Times Square in order to set a world record. This event supported the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Colgate made a $1 donation for every person who participated in the event.

This is wonderful news for dentists. If breaking world records can help motivate people to take better care of their oral health we are all for it! Gum disease and tooth loss have been linked to everything from heart disease to cancer and even dementia. But gum disease and tooth loss are entirely preventable with good home care – this means brushing and flossing – and regular visits to your dental hygienist.

The whole idea of preventing tooth loss through oral health care has only been around for about the past 100 years – so thank your dental hygienist for helping to keep you healthy! Please contact Columbus, Ohio cosmetic dentist Dr. Mark Levy today at 614-476-6696 to schedule your next appointment.