Scientists Warn Against Using Dental Floss
Scientists: dental floss raises levels of toxic PFAS acids in the body — increasing risks of kidney cancer, thyroid disease and fertility problems.
Scientists: dental floss raises levels of toxic PFAS acids in the body — increasing risks of kidney cancer, thyroid disease and fertility problems.
Some everyday habits, such as using dental floss to clean between the teeth, may not be as safe as we think, scientists warn. The concern centers on practices that raise the body's level of toxic perfluoroalkyl compounds, known as PFAS.
These compounds can be found in fast-food packaging, non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and stain-resistant carpets. Beyond direct contact with PFAS-containing items, a person can be exposed to them by inhaling air and dust particles or by drinking water. Possible consequences include testicular and kidney cancer, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, reduced birth weight in newborns, lower fertility rates, and immune system problems.
In the latest study, scientists measured the concentration of 11 different PFAS compounds in the blood of 178 women. It turned out that women who used dental floss had elevated levels of one specific type of PFAS — PFHxS acid.
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