PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals widely used in consumer products. They are valued for their resistance to heat, water, and oil. However, PFAS are sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and human body.
Why Are PFAS Found in Dental Products?
Some dental floss brands have used PFAS to enhance their glide performance. PFAS make floss smoother, helping it slide easily between tight teeth. However, concerns about health effects have raised questions about whether such use is safe, especially when floss is used daily near sensitive gum tissue prone to gum inflammation.
Does Reach Dental Floss Contain PFAS?
The History of Reach Dental Floss
Reach dental floss was originally a product line by Johnson & Johnson. It has since changed ownership but remains a widely recognized brand. Some early versions, especially those branded as “glide,” were reportedly made with PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), a substance in the PFAS family.
Scientific Studies and Consumer Reports
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology found evidence that women who used dental floss containing PTFE had higher levels of PFAS in their blood. The study tested several dental floss products, including Glide, which was associated with PFAS presence. At that time, Reach-branded Glide floss was listed among products containing PTFE.
Is PTFE Always a PFAS?
PTFE is a type of PFAS. While not all PFAS are equally harmful, PTFE still raises concerns because it can degrade into potentially toxic compounds over time. The dental contact with gums, especially in people with gum disease or gum inflammation, increases the chance of chemical absorption.
Current Ingredient Disclosure
As of recent updates, many brands, including those that own Reach, have not provided detailed PFAS disclosure on their floss packaging. Consumers must look for PTFE or Teflon on the label as a possible indicator. The lack of transparency complicates efforts to determine if current Reach dental floss contains PFAS.
Health Concerns Linked to PFAS in Dental Floss
Impact on Gum Health
Daily flossing with PFAS-treated products can increase exposure to these substances near the gum line. If the gums are inflamed or bleeding—common signs of gingivitis or early-stage gum disease—the absorption risk may rise. This could compromise healing and worsen inflammation.
Systemic Effects of PFAS
PFAS accumulate in the body and have been linked to several health conditions, including thyroid disruption, immune system interference, and certain cancers. While flossing is a small source, consistent exposure through oral mucosa may contribute to overall PFAS burden in the body.
Safer Alternatives to PFAS-Based Dental Floss
Natural and PFAS-Free Floss Brands
Consumers concerned about PFAS can choose floss made from silk, bamboo fiber, or other biodegradable materials. These options often use natural waxes and avoid synthetic coatings entirely. Brands such as Dr. Tung’s, Eco-Dent, and Radius offer PFAS-free dental floss.
How to Choose Safe Floss
- Look for “PTFE-free” labels
- Avoid terms like “glide” or “Teflon-coated”
- Check for ingredient transparency on brand websites
- Choose floss certified by environmental safety organizations
The Importance of Flossing in Preventing Gum Disease
Why Flossing Matters
Flossing removes food particles and plaque between teeth where toothbrushes can’t reach. Regular flossing prevents tartar buildup, gum inflammation, and ultimately periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease.
Using Safe Floss Properly
When using floss, gently guide it between teeth and under the gum line. Avoid snapping it, as this can injure the gums. Proper technique helps reduce gingival inflammation and keeps gums healthy.
Warning Signs of Gum Problems
If you notice symptoms like:
- Bleeding while flossing
- Swollen or red gums
- Persistent bad breath
…these could be signs of gum disease. Consult a dental professional promptly to assess and treat the condition.
Reach Dental Floss and Regulatory Oversight
FDA and Cosmetic Product Regulation
The U.S. FDA does not require companies to disclose PFAS in dental floss. Since floss is considered a cosmetic tool rather than a drug, labeling regulations are more relaxed. This limits public knowledge and complicates informed purchasing decisions.
Consumer Advocacy and Transparency
Groups like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) have pushed for more transparency in personal care products. While some progress has been made in food packaging, dental hygiene items still lag in PFAS disclosure.
Steps to Reduce PFAS Exposure from Dental Care
Switch to Safer Products
Use PFAS-free floss and seek out organic toothpaste. Avoid dental tools that list Teflon or PTFE as a component. Choose brands that voluntarily disclose ingredients.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Besides flossing, brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash, and schedule professional cleanings. This reduces the risk of gum inflammation and dental plaque, lowering the need for aggressive flossing with chemically treated products.
Stay Informed
Keep up with scientific findings and recall notices. Check reputable sites such as:
- Environmental Working Group
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Myths About Flossing and Chemical Exposure
Myth: All Dental Floss Is the Same
This is false. Some floss products contain chemical coatings like PFAS, while others are made from untreated silk or plant fiber. Ingredient lists differ significantly, and knowing what’s in your floss matters.
Myth: PFAS in Floss is Harmless
While the amount may be small, daily contact over months or years can add up. Especially for individuals with compromised oral health or weakened immune systems, even minor exposures can be relevant.
Conclusion
Although not all Reach dental floss products are confirmed to contain PFAS today, historical versions, especially those using “Glide” branding, were found to contain PTFE, a form of PFAS. The lack of current transparency means consumers should err on the side of caution.
Given the potential link between PFAS and adverse health effects, especially when used near inflamed gums, switching to PFAS-free dental floss is a prudent choice. Keeping your mouth healthy—free from gum disease and plaque buildup—requires safe, effective tools.
