Dental Floss Exposes People to PFAS and Other Dangerous Chemicals: Study
People who use certain types of dental floss may absorb toxic chemicals that have been linked with heart disease and cancer, according to a January 2019 study published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology [1].
For the study, researchers used regression analysis to investigate the link between 6 self-reported behaviors believed to influence per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure and serum concentrations of 6 PFAS chemicals in 178 middle-aged women enrolled in the Child Health and Development Studies, about half of whom were African American. Blood samples were collected from 2010 to 2013, and test subjects were interviewed about their behavior from 2015–2016.
The researchers found that women who flossed with nylon Oral-B Glide floss had higher levels of perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), a substance that belongs to the PFAS family of chemicals, in their blood compared to women who didn’t use that brand of floss.
Related Article: PFAS Exposure Lawsuits Update
Does Waxed Dental Floss Contain PFAS?
Not all coated dental floss contains PFAS. Certain brands of waxed flosses are free of PFAS; however, you should check the product packaging to determine whether the floss you use contains PFAS.
Which Floss Does Not Contain PFAS?
Eco-DenT floss is PFAS-free, cruelty-free, and 100% vegan. It's nylon-based, coated in vegan wax, and comes in a plastic-free container. The box that Eco-DenT floss comes in is actually the dispenser, and it contains no artificial sweeteners, parabens, or colorings.
What is the Safest Dental Floss to Use?
To avoid PFAS in nylon dental floss, you can use natural silk, which is biodegradable. If you have to use nylon floss, purchase a brand that is coated in something other than petroleum, such as Beeswax.
Is There PFAS in Toothpaste?
Not only are PFAS found in some brands of dental floss, but the chemicals are also contained in makeup, sunscreen, shampoo, and shaving cream. This includes children's products including toothpaste, sunscreen, shampoo, and conditioner for kids.
Related Articles:
- What is a Safe Level of PFAS?
- Does Boiling Water Get Rid of PFAS?
- Can PFAS Be Removed From the Body?
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