[Microscopic studies of the structures of different dental floss types].

26 different dental flosses, made from silk, polyamide (Nylon) or Teflon, were analyzed with respect to their surface structure and their cross-section. Principally, two different types of manufacturing could be distinguished. The dental flosses either consisted of a large number of individual fibers, or a single, falted membrane. Even flosses that were manufactured in the same manner revealed considerable differences. Apart from the chemical composition, the structure of dental flosses is decisive for their use and this is why an exact classification would be desirable. In this study the requirements for classifying dental flosses are provided.