Major Brands Reformulate Dental Floss to Eliminate PFAS After Health Concerns
Procter & Gamble and Colgate have reformulated their dental floss products to remove PTFE and PFAS, citing health concerns and state regulations. A 2019 study linked Oral-B Glide use to higher levels of a specific forever chemical in blood, prompting industry-wide changes to safer, non-fluorinated materials.
Key points
- Procter & Gamble confirmed that Oral-B Glide floss has been reformulated to remove PTFE and PFAS, replacing them with a nylon and elastic polymer called Pebax.
- Colgate began eliminating PTFE from its floss in 2022, citing consumer concerns, while maintaining that the ingredient was safe.
- A 2019 study by the Silent Spring Institute found that women using Oral-B Glide had higher blood levels of PFHxS, a PFAS compound, compared to non-users.
- Researchers tested 18 floss products and found fluorine, a marker for Teflon, in six, including all three Glide varieties and a Colgate product.
- Minnesota banned the intentional addition of PFAS to 11 categories of consumer products, including dental floss, in 2025.
Background
This development follows broader scrutiny of PFAS, or 'forever chemicals,' which are linked to health risks such as cancer and immune issues. Recent research has also highlighted the chemical reactivity of plastics in water, further driving consumer demand for safer household products. While dental floss is essential for oral health, manufacturers are now prioritizing formulations that avoid potentially harmful fluorinated compounds.
Why it matters
The shift away from PTFE in dental floss reflects a growing trend in consumer products to eliminate PFAS due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. This change ensures that everyday hygiene products align with stricter state regulations and consumer safety standards, reducing exposure to compounds linked to adverse health effects.
What to watch
Consumers are advised to look for PTFE-free floss, with experts suggesting silk-based alternatives as a more sustainable option. Manufacturers are expected to continue transitioning to non-fluorinated materials, while the American Dental Association recommends directing specific ingredient questions to producers. Ongoing research will likely further clarify the health impacts of PFAS exposure from consumer products.
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