hammaslankaa

Hammaslankaa is the Finnish term for dental floss, a flexible string designed to clean between teeth where a toothbrush cannot reach. Used daily, it helps remove plaque and food particles from interdental spaces and supports gum health.

Floss is typically made from nylon or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). It comes in various forms, including waxed and unwaxed varieties, flavored options, and outer shapes such as standard floss and broader dental tape. Fluoride-containing or mint-flavored products exist; floss picks combine a short piece of floss with a handle.

Proper technique involves about 45 to 60 centimeters of floss. The user wraps most of it around the middle fingers, leaving a small section to work with. Gently slide the floss between teeth with a C-shaped curve, glide beneath the gum line, and move it to the adjacent tooth using a clean segment for each contact. Avoid snapping or forcing the floss, which can injure gums.

Daily flossing reduces plaque buildup and gingivitis in areas a brush cannot reach, and lowers the risk of interproximal cavities. Some people experience temporary gum irritation when starting; if bleeding persists, consult a dental professional and review technique.

The concept originated in the 19th century with Levi Spear Parmly, and the modern nylon floss was developed in the mid-20th century. Today, dental floss remains a common component of oral hygiene routines, alongside interdental brushes and water flossers.

In Finland, hammaslanka is widely recommended by dental professionals as part of comprehensive oral care. The term hammaslanka refers to the material, while hammaslankaa is the partitive form used in sentences like “käytän hammaslankaa” (I use dental floss).