The Dark Side of Dental Floss

When it comes to oral hygiene, flossing is a crucial step in preventing gum disease and maintaining overall dental health. But what if your floss is doing more harm than good? Many popular dental floss brands contain materials and coatings that expose you to harmful toxins—substances that can impact your health on a cellular level.

At True Cellular Formulas, we optimize cellular function, including reducing exposure to environmental toxins. Here’s what you need to know about the hidden risks of conventional floss and how to make healthier choices for you and your family.

The Toxic Truth About Conventional Dental Floss

1. Teflon Fibers and PFAS Exposure

Many dental flosses, including popular brands like Oral-B Glide, are made with Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE). Teflon belongs to the family of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called "forever chemicals" because they persist in the environment and the human body.

A recent study revealed that women who used Teflon-based floss had significantly higher levels of PFAS in their blood. These chemicals are linked to:^[1]

• Disrupted hormone regulation
• Liver damage
• Immune system dysfunction
• Increased risk of certain cancers

PFAS exposure at the cellular level interferes with detoxification pathways and increases oxidative stress, making it harder for the body to repair and regenerate itself.

2. Nylon and Polyester Microplastics

Even if your floss isn’t made with Teflon, it’s likely made from synthetic materials like nylon or polyester. Every time you floss, these fibers can release microplastics into your body. Over time, microplastic accumulation may contribute to inflammation, disrupt cellular communication, and burden your detoxification systems.^[2]

3. Petroleum-Based Coatings

Most conventional dental floss is coated with wax to glide more easily between teeth. Unfortunately, this wax is often petroleum-based, introducing another layer of toxins into your oral routine. Petroleum derivatives can contribute to systemic inflammation and strain the liver’s detoxification capacity.[3]

4. Synthetic Fragrances and Additives

Many flosses contain synthetic flavors and fragrances, often derived from phthalates. These endocrine-disrupting chemicals are linked to reproductive and developmental issues, making them a concerning addition to a product you use daily.^[4]

The Cellular Impact of Toxic Floss

Your body’s detoxification systems work hard to process the environmental toxins you encounter daily. When you expose yourself to additional sources of toxicity—like conventional dental floss—it places an unnecessary burden on your liver, kidneys, and cellular repair systems. Over time, this toxic load can result in:

• Chronic inflammation
• Impaired cellular communication
• Reduced mitochondrial function
• Oxidative stress and accelerated aging

By choosing non-toxic alternatives, you can reduce the toxic burden on your cells and support your body’s natural detox pathways.

Safer Alternatives for Healthier Flossing

To protect your cellular health, look for dental floss made with natural, non-toxic materials. Here’s what to prioritize:

• Natural Fibers: Choose floss from biodegradable materials like silk or bamboo to avoid exposure to microplastic.
• Non-Toxic Coatings: Opt for floss coated with natural waxes such as beeswax or candelilla wax. These coatings glide smoothly without introducing petroleum derivatives.
• Essential Oils for Flavor: Seek floss flavored with natural essential oils, such as peppermint or tea tree, instead of synthetic additives.
• Eco-Friendly Packaging: Many safer brands use glass containers or cardboard packaging to eliminate plastic waste.

Recommended Non-Toxic Floss Brands

• Dental Lace: Biodegradable silk floss coated with beeswax in refillable glass containers.
• TreeBird Floss: Bamboo-based, vegan-friendly floss coated with candelilla wax.
• Radius Organic Silk Floss: Made with natural silk and infused with coconut oil for smoothness.
• Smart Floss by Dr. Tung: This floss is free of Teflon and petroleum and coated with plant-based wax.

Making the Switch

Switching to non-toxic floss isn’t just about oral health—it’s about reducing your overall toxic burden and supporting optimal cellular function. By removing a small but daily source of harmful chemicals, you’re significantly impacting your body’s ability to detox and repair itself.

Taking care of your health starts with simple, mindful choices. Choose safer dental floss and give your body the clean slate it deserves.