We all know the drill: floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles, reduce your risk of cavities, and maintain healthy gums. But did you know that some dental floss products might be putting your health at risk?
Recent research has highlighted the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals,” in several popular floss brands. These chemicals, used to make floss slide more easily between teeth, are concerning due to their persistence in both the body and the environment. PFAS have been linked to a range of health problems, including an increased risk of certain cancers. They’re commonly found in everyday items like nonstick cookware, fast-food containers, and even drinking water, leading experts to recommend reducing exposure whenever possible.
“We’re exposed to PFAS chemicals daily, from water, soil, and seafood to cleaning products and even our carpets,” says Dr. Jennifer Blanton, a dentist based in Houston. “It’s crucial to be mindful of the chemicals we encounter in our daily lives, especially those we ingest or consume.”
However, that doesn’t mean you should skip flossing altogether. Regular flossing remains an essential part of maintaining oral health. “You should be flossing every night for the rest of your life,” says Dr. Chadd McAlpin, a California dentist, offering advice to his TikTok followers. “And when it comes to choosing floss, go for a thicker wax-coated version.”
For those concerned about the potential health risks of PFAS, the solution is simple: look for flosses labeled as PFAS-free. Natural fiber options like silk or cotton, coated with plant-based waxes such as beeswax, candelilla, or carnauba, provide a safer, eco-friendly alternative.
Consumer Reports, in partnership with the certification program Made Safe, analyzed 17 floss products and identified three PFAS-free options that stand out for their health benefits. While silk floss tends to be less durable and more expensive than plastic alternatives, brands like Nudge offer a safer option with their biodegradable silk floss ($6.99 for 40 feet). It comes in a glass container, making it a plastic-free choice as well.
Another option, Radius, spins its floss in candelilla wax and coats it in carnauba wax. The product comes in plastic-free packaging, with a pack of three rolls costing $14.04 for 297 feet. TreeBird also offers a PFAS-free option made from pure peace silk, waxed with candelilla. The floss comes in a reusable glass container, and the packaging is entirely compostable, using soybean-based ink. A 99-foot spool is priced at $9.99, while a two-pack refill (198 feet) costs $9.99.
By choosing PFAS-free dental floss, you’re not only making a safer choice for your health but also supporting more sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives.
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