Scary new research recently uncovered that flossing teeth could increase the body’s levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) — widely used chemicals linked to a number of diseases and certain cancers. But it’s not as if we can stop flossing – dental hygiene is essential to our health. Flossing daily can help prevent periodontal disease or a serious gum infection by removing excess food debris from in-between your teeth.
Dangerous chemicals.
The research, published online January 8, 2019 in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, looked at 11 PFASs in blood samples from almost 180 women. It showed that using Oral-B Glide to floss one’s teeth was associated with higher levels of the PFAS perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) in the body.
PFAS chemicals can be traced back to kidney and testicular cancer as well as ulcerative colitis and in children, thyroid disease, immune responses, and reductions in sex and growth hormone levels.
So, what now?
Try picking a brand of floss that nixes these toxic chemicals. Here are a few of our favorites:
Dessert Essence
Tom’s Natural Antiplaque Flat Floss
Tea Tree Oil Dental Floss