Oral hygiene is a fundamental aspect of maintaining overall health. One of the essential steps in any oral hygiene routine is flossing. However, not all flosses are the same. The need for non-toxic floss has significantly increased, considering the potential health issues associated with conventional, chemical-laden floss.

Non-toxic floss refers to dental floss made from natural materials and devoid of artificial substances or harmful chemicals. It is biodegradable, leaving a minimal impact on our environment. Choosing non-toxic floss over traditional types has several advantages, both for personal health and the environment.

Firstly, many traditional dental flosses are coated with a synthetic, petroleum-based wax and potentially harmful chemicals, including Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals linked to numerous health issues, including hormone disruption and cancer. Non-toxic flosses are free from these substances ensuring a healthier and safer oral care routine.

Secondly, non-toxic floss is typically made from sustainable, biodegradable materials, such as silk or bamboo fibers. It decomposes naturally over time, unlike plastic-based floss that can take hundreds of years to degrade. This means that switching to non-toxic floss not only benefits your health but also contributes to reducing environmental pollution.

Furthermore, non-toxic floss often comes in eco-friendly packaging. Traditional floss containers are made from hard-to-recycle materials, contributing to landfills’ growth. In contrast, non-toxic floss manufacturers tend to use recyclable or compostable packaging, further demonstrating their commitment to environmental sustainability.

How To Choose Non-toxic Dental Floss?

Evaluating If a Dental Floss is Non-Toxic Through the Following Aspects

PFAS-free Labels:
The first thing you should look for when buying dental floss is whether it is free from Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). PFAS are synthetic chemicals that can lead to several health concerns, including cancer and hormone disruption. Make sure to check the label for a PFAS-free claim.

Natural Materials:
Non-toxic floss should be composed of purely natural materials. Silk is a common choice due to its impressive durability and biodegradability. But silk is made from silkworms, so it’s not suitable for vegans. If you’re looking for vegan options, consider plant-based flosses such as those made from bamboo fibers.

Natural Wax Coating:
Conventional flosses are typically coated with synthetic, petroleum-based waxes. However, safer alternatives would use plant-derived or beeswax coating.

Biodegradable:
Opt for floss that’s biodegradable. They are good for the environment as it deteriorates naturally and does not contribute to landfill waste.

Eco-Friendly Packaging:
Check the product packaging. It should be composed of recyclable or compostable materials. This further aligns with the goal of reducing environmental impact.

Non-Toxic Certification:
Some floss products carry certifications like “Certified Organic” or “Chemical-Free.” While they are not necessarily required, these certifications can provide extra assurance of the product’s non-toxic nature.

Research the Brand:
Do your homework on the brand. A company committed to producing natural, non-toxic products will usually be transparent about their ingredients and manufacturing processes.

Here Are Some Non-Toxic Dental Floss Brands

DrTung’s Smart Floss: This floss is natural and free from PTFE and PFAS. It is gentle on the gums and expands and stretches. It is also BPA-free.

Radius Vegan: This floss is made from nylon and coated with candelilla plant wax.

Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil: This floss also consists of nylon but is coated with beeswax.

Tom’s of Maine: This one is made from nylon and coated with a natural wax.

In conclusion, non-toxic floss is not only healthier for our bodies, but it also benefits our planet. By making the switch to non-toxic oral care products, we can contribute to a healthier world while taking excellent care of our oral health. Therefore, it is crucial to consider your choice of dental floss, keeping in mind your health and the state of our environment. Making the switch may seem like a small step, but it could have far-reaching positive impacts.