Could dental floss be the next vaccine method? Scientists say it could work
Study shows floss-delivered vaccines create antibodies in bloodstream and mucosal surfaces
A new study led by Texas Tech University and the University of North Carolina suggests that dental floss could eventually double as a vaccine mechanism. (iStock)
The researchers showed that dental floss can effectively release vaccines through the tissue between the teeth and gums. (iStock)
With the traditional method of injecting vaccines, the antibodies are primarily produced in the bloodstream, the researchers noted. (iStock)
For all four types of vaccines tested, the flossing technique produced "robust antibody responses in the bloodstream and across mucosal surfaces," the researchers stated. (iStock)
"This study presents a promising floss-based vaccination method that can avoid needle injection or any potentially painful procedure," an expert said. (iStock)