Oral hygiene is a crucial aspect of our daily routines, but what if your dental floss, the unsung hero of your dental care regimen, contains hidden dangers?
The revelation that some dental floss products may contain PFAS, or "forever chemicals," has sparked concern among those that have heard what this could mean for them. In this blog post, we will explore the unsettling connection between dental floss and PFAS, its potential health risks, and safer alternatives available.
Understanding PFAS: The "Forever Chemicals"
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that have earned the ominous nickname "forever chemicals." This moniker arises from their unique ability to bioaccumulate in the human body, persisting for years without degradation. Not only are PFAS resistant to leaving our bodies, but they also don't naturally break down in the environment - persisting upwards to thousands of years.
Health Hazards Associated with PFAS:
The presence of PFAS in dental floss raises serious health concerns. These toxic compounds have been unequivocally linked to various health issues, including:
1. Cancer: Studies have established a clear connection between PFAS exposure and several types of cancer, including brain cancer, kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and others.
2. Ulcerative Colitis: PFAS exposure has been associated with an increased risk of ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
3. Low IQ in Children: Research suggests that PFAS exposure may lead to lower IQ levels in children, potentially affecting their cognitive development.
PFAS in Dental Floss actually leads to higher PFAS in your blood:
The type of PFAS that has been found in dental floss is PTFE - this type of PFAS is the same as Teflon. In order to make Teflon, manufacturers must use a starting chemical called GenX. The argument from chemical companies has been that GenX won't migrate out from Teflon coatings... However that has now proven to not be true.
However, in 2019, a study by the Silent Spring Institute uncovered alarming levels of GenX in the blood of women who used Glide Oral-B Dental floss.
What's particularly unsettling is that Glide floss is constructed using Teflon—a shocking revelation for consumers who relied on it for their oral care needs.
Furthermore, Colgate Total dental floss, another widely used brand, is marketed as "a single strand of Teflon fiber."
An investigation by Mamavation found PFAS in various floss products, including popular brands like Glide, Colgate Total, and generic store brands, such as Target Up & Up and Rite Aid. These flosses were often marketed as "smooth glide" or "premium waxed."
Despite a class-action lawsuit against Oral-B Glide floss, none of these companies have issued recalls or public responses. This leaves consumers who have used these products concerned about potential PFAS exposure.
Safer Alternatives: PFAS-Free Dental Floss:
Thankfully, consumers have access to PFAS-free dental floss options that prioritize both oral health and safety. Some popular alternatives include:
1. Radius Floss: Highly effective and PFAS-free, Radius floss offers a superior cleaning experience. My personal favorite!
2. Cocofloss: Known for its quality and safety, Cocofloss has gained popularity among health-conscious individuals.
3. Tom's of Maine: A trusted brand known for its commitment to natural and safe ingredients.
4. The Humble Company: This eco-friendly brand offers dental floss that's free from harmful chemicals.
5. TreeBird: With a focus on sustainability and safety, Public Goods provides PFAS-free dental floss for conscientious consumers.
Conclusion:
The revelation of PFAS in dental floss has understandably left consumers concerned about their oral care products' safety.
Every little exposure matters - please get yourself PFAS tested, especially if you've used Glide floss. Currently the test is only available in California, but will be rolling out nationally soon...
@taborplace Replying to @RP your exposure of PFAS from dental floss is actually pretty gnarly - but there's lots of great kinds that are PFAS free - @Cocofloss @TomsOfMaine --- check out my other PFAS videos: @Tabor Place and get yourself PFAS tested: @Tabor Place #pfas #dentalfloss #pfasindentalfloss #toxic #foreverchemical #toxicchemicals #pfoa #teflon ♬ original sound - Tabor Place
Comments
I have used Oral-B Glide floss for years. The only ingredient they list is plastic. Should I be concerned?
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