Floss and PFAS: Is floss toxic?

Ever since a recent study, there has been concern over the use of Glide floss. The study raises concerns about whether Glide floss could potentially expose you to PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl substances. PFAS are a group of chemicals that have been linked to numerous health risks, including some cancers.

What does this information mean for you, your oral health, and your general health?

Bellow is a link to the recent study

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41370-018-0109-y

Here are links to responses from the ADA, who think that this isn't something you need to worry about just yet.

https://www.ada.org/en/publications/ada-news/2019-archive/january/ada-questions-conclusions-in-study-linking-dental-floss-with-toxic-chemicals

https://www.ada.org/en/press-room/news-releases/2019-archives/january/ada-statement-on-study-involving-dental-floss

And here is the study's analysis of floss. They say that detectable fluorine could be a sign of PFAS, but it's more likely just a sign of PTFE, which also has fluorine in it. If you're looking to switch to a new floss to avoid PTFE or PFAS, pick one of the flosses that have the "--" next to them rather than "YES". I personally use Reach Mint Waxed, although it's really just personal preference.

Product name on package Detectable fluorine
Colgate Total Dental Floss Mint Yes
CVS Health SuperSlip Ease Between Waxed Yes
Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Mint Yes
Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Original Yes
Crest Glide Deep Clean Cool Mint Floss Yes
Signature Care Mint Waxed Comfort Floss Yes
CVS Unwaxed --
Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Dental Tape --
EcoDent Gentle Floss Premium Dental Floss --
Johnson & Johnson Listerine Cool Mint Mint Floss --
Johnson & Johnson Reach Clean Paste Icy Mint Woven Floss --
Johnson & Johnson Reach Mint Waxed --
Reach Mint Waxed --
Reach Waxed Unflavored --
Oral-B Complete Deep Clean Ultra Mint --
Oral-B Satin Floss Mint --
Rite-Aid Premium Waxed Mint Floss --
Tom's of Maine Naturally Waxed Antiplaque Flat Floss --

Please contact me at AskDrTyler@gmail.com if you questions or ideas for future videos

Thank you so much for watching!

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