Dental Floss PFAS Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

If you or a loved one experienced health complications related to PFAS exposure from dental floss products, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, LLP, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to dangerous chemicals in consumer products.

Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark, LLP today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Dental Floss PFAS Lawsuit Overview

Dental floss lawsuits allege that certain brands contain dangerous per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) linked to serious health issues including cancer and hormonal disruption. The primary allegations against manufacturers claim they knowingly included these “forever chemicals” in their products without warning consumers of potential health risks. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology found that women who used certain types of dental floss had higher levels of PFAS in their blood compared to those who didn’t [1].

Latest Dental Floss PFAS Lawsuit Updates

• April 2024 – Tyco Fire Products reached a $750 million settlement for PFAS contamination claims in a multi-district litigation (MDL), setting a potential precedent for consumer product PFAS cases.
• May 2024 – BASF paid $316.5 million to resolve an MDL involving PFAS contamination, further establishing corporate liability for PFAS-related damages.
• 2023-2024 – 3M agreed to a settlement between $10.3 billion and $12.5 billion to address claims from over 300 water municipalities in a multi-district litigation related to PFAS contamination.

FDA Reports and Statistics on PFAS

The FDA has been monitoring PFAS in consumer products due to growing health concerns. While specific dental floss tracking data is limited, the agency has compiled significant information on PFAS exposure from various sources.

Research Findings

• A 2019 study examined 178 middle-aged women, finding that those who used nylon Oral-B Glide floss had higher levels of perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) in their blood [2].
• Researchers tested 18 dental flosses and found that many brands using “Glide” technology contained fluorine, indicating the presence of PFAS.
• The CDC has reported that PFAS chemicals are present in the blood of 97% of Americans, with dental products being one potential source [3].

Exposure Statistics

• An estimated 200 million Americans use dental floss regularly, with potential ongoing PFAS exposure.
• PFAS can enter the bloodstream through oral tissues during flossing, especially when gums are inflamed or bleeding.
• People who floss daily with PFAS-containing products may have up to 25% higher blood levels of certain PFAS compounds compared to non-users.

PFAS Injuries & Side Effects

PFAS exposure from dental floss and other sources has been linked to numerous serious health conditions. These chemicals can accumulate in the body over time and cause a range of adverse effects.

• Cancer Risk: Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer with prolonged exposure.
• Liver Damage: Elevated liver enzymes and potential long-term liver function impairment.
• Thyroid Disorders: Disruption of thyroid hormone production and regulation.
• Reproductive Issues: Fertility challenges in both men and women, pregnancy complications.
• Immune System Impairment: Reduced antibody response to vaccines, increased susceptibility to infections.
• Elevated Cholesterol: Higher levels of blood cholesterol linked to PFAS exposure.
• Developmental Issues: Low birth weight and developmental delays in children exposed prenatally.

PFAS-Related Symptoms to Watch For

Exposure to PFAS may not always cause immediate symptoms, but prolonged exposure has been associated with various health issues. Below are specific symptoms linked to PFAS exposure that may warrant further investigation:Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Diarrhea or changes in bowel habits

Hormonal and Thyroid-Related Symptoms

• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Fatigue or low energy levels
• Hair thinning or hair loss
• Swelling in the neck or goiter (enlarged thyroid gland)

Reproductive and Developmental Symptoms

• Difficulty conceiving or infertility
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Low birth weight or developmental delays in children

Cardiovascular Symptoms

• Elevated cholesterol levels
• High blood pressure

Related Article:PFAS Exposure Lawsuits Update

Do You Qualify for a Dental Floss PFAS Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a dental floss PFAS lawsuit if:

• You used dental floss products containing PFAS (particularly brands with “glide” technology) regularly for an extended period.
• You have been diagnosed with a condition linked to PFAS exposure, such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, or liver damage.
• Your health issues required medical treatment.
• There is a reasonable timeframe between your product use and the development of symptoms.

Evidence Required for a Dental Floss PFAS Lawsuit

Building a strong case requires documentation that may include:

• Proof of purchase or use of specific dental floss brands (receipts, packaging, photos).
• Medical records showing diagnosis and treatment of conditions linked to PFAS.
• Blood tests showing elevated PFAS levels (if available).
• Timeline documenting product use and onset of symptoms.

Damages You Can Recover

Compensation for PFAS exposure from dental floss products may include:

• Medical expenses for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care.
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering from physical and emotional distress.
• Costs for medical monitoring of PFAS-related health concerns.
• Punitive damages in cases of manufacturer negligence.

Massive PFAS Settlements: A Glimpse Into Legal Outcomes

Legal battles over PFAS contamination have resulted in significant settlements involving major corporations in recent years. These settlements reflect the growing accountability of manufacturers for the widespread contamination caused by these “forever chemicals.”While many settlements address claims from public entities, the impact of these lawsuits is far-reaching, with substantial funds allocated for cleanup and mitigation. Here’s a breakdown of some notable settlements:

Settlement Highlights

• DuPont and Chemours: Paid a combined $671 million to resolve a case in West Virginia over PFAS contamination.
• 3M: Agreed to a settlement between $10.3 billion and $12.5 billion to address claims from over 300 water municipalities in a multi-district litigation (MDL).
• DuPont and Subsidiaries: Finalized a separate settlement for $1.185 billion related to similar allegations.
• Tyco Fire Products: Reached a $750 million settlement in April 2024 for claims in an MDL concerning PFAS contamination.
• BASF: Paid $316.5 million to resolve an MDL in May 2024.
• Wolverine World Wide Inc.: Settled for $113 million over claims regarding contamination of private water wells in Michigan municipalities.
• Minnesota State Settlement: The state secured $850 million for PFAS contamination affecting the Twin Cities region.

These settlements primarily involve cleanup costs and compensation for public entities. Personal injury claims related to PFAS exposure are ongoing, with individual compensation amounts yet to be determined.

Dental Floss PFAS Recall Information

As of April 2025, no specific dental floss brands have been officially recalled by the FDA due to PFAS content. However, increased regulatory scrutiny and consumer awareness have led to market changes.

Regulatory Actions

• The FDA has issued general warnings about PFAS in consumer products but has not mandated specific dental floss recalls [4].
• The EPA has designated certain PFAS as hazardous substances, which may impact future regulation of these chemicals in personal care products.
• Several states have enacted legislation restricting PFAS in consumer products, which could affect dental floss manufacturing standards.

Manufacturer Responses

In response to concerns about PFAS in dental floss, some companies have:

• Voluntarily reformulated their products to remove PFAS
• Issued statements denying health risks or the presence of harmful substances
• Created new PFAS-free product lines to address consumer concerns

Statute of Limitations for Dental Floss PFAS Lawsuits

The time limit for filing a dental floss PFAS lawsuit varies by state and depends on when you discovered your injury was related to PFAS exposure. Most states apply the “discovery rule,” meaning the clock starts when you knew or should have known about the connection between your health issues and the product.

State-Specific Timeframes

Important considerations include:

• For latent diseases like cancer, the statute may begin when you were diagnosed
• Some states have special rules for toxic exposure cases
• Class action deadlines may differ from individual case timeframes

Related Articles

:

• What is a Safe Level of PFAS?
• Does Boiling Water Get Rid of PFAS?
• Can PFAS Be Removed From the Body?

FAQs

1. What Steps Can I Take to Avoid PFAS in Dental Floss?

To avoid PFAS in dental floss, choose brands labeled as PFAS-free, check ingredient lists, and select natural or eco-friendly options. Verify with manufacturers if PFAS-free claims are supported.

2. Are There Specific Brands Known for PFAS-Free Dental Floss?

Yes, several brands offer PFAS-free dental floss, such as Eco-DenT, Tom’s of Maine, and Radius. Look for certifications or labels indicating PFAS-free status and consult product reviews for more options.

3. How Can PFAS in Dental Floss Impact Long-Term Health?

Long-term PFAS exposure from dental floss may contribute to health issues like cancer, liver damage, and hormonal disruption. Persistent PFAS can accumulate in the body and pose significant health risks.

4. Which Specific Brands Are Under Lawsuit?

Brands like Oral-B Glide and others using “glide” technology have been implicated in studies linking them to PFAS exposure. Companies like 3M, DuPont, and other manufacturers face lawsuits for PFAS contamination in various products.

5. How Do I Prove PFAS Exposure?

Prove exposure by providing medical records, blood test results showing elevated PFAS levels, and evidence of long-term use of products linked to PFAS. Expert testimony can also help establish a connection to health conditions.

6. What Compensation Can I Receive?

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and costs for ongoing health monitoring. If negligence is proven, punitive damages may also apply.

7. Is There a Class Action Lawsuit for Dental Floss PFAS?

While there are ongoing PFAS-related class actions for various products and environmental contamination, dental floss-specific class actions are still developing. Consult with an attorney to determine the best legal approach for your situation.

8. What is the Safest Dental Floss to Use?

To avoid PFAS in nylon dental floss, consider natural silk floss, which is biodegradable. If using nylon floss, choose brands coated with natural substances like beeswax rather than those with “glide” technology.

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for PFAS exposure from dental floss products. Many states have statutes of limitations as short as 2-3 years from when you discovered or should have discovered your injury was related to PFAS exposure.Acting promptly ensures you preserve your legal rights and ability to seek compensation for health issues related to PFAS exposure.Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for representation
• Payment only if we win your case
• Experienced representation in complex product liability cases

Don’t delay in seeking the compensation you deserve for health issues related to PFAS exposure from dental floss products.References

1. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41370-018-0109-y?error=cookies_not_supported&code=93793735-4f54-4b87-a6eb-21965e6afbcc?error=cookies_not_supported&code=93793735-4f54-4b87-a6eb-21965e6afbcc
2. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41370-018-0109-y?error=cookies_not_supported&code=93793735-4f54-4b87-a6eb-21965e6afbcc?error=cookies_not_supported&code=93793735-4f54-4b87-a6eb-21965e6afbcc
3. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/health-effects/exposure.html
4. https://www.fda.gov/food/chemical-contaminants-food/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas