PFAS in Zahnseide: Worauf du beim Kauf achten solltest

Could your dental floss contain chemicals you would rather avoid? Flossing is essential for oral health—but growing awareness of PFAS in dental floss raises valid questions about safety.

Unfortunately, something as small as dental floss could expose you to PFAS chemicals. Some dental floss products—especially those marketed as “glide,” “smooth,” or “non-stick”—may use materials related to PFAS chemistry to improve performance.

I remember watching a documentary about PFAS exposure a few years ago—it really opened my eyes to just how many consumer products are contaminated with these toxic chemicals. So could my dental floss also contain PFAS?

When researching, I found out that one cosumer study found PFAS present in about 33% of analyzed floss products! Popular brands like Colgate and Oral-B were part of this group, with alarmingly high levels of PFAS.

The problem? PFAS have been linked to a bunch of health problems, including increased risks of several cancers, hormonal disruption, and more.

The safest low-tox swaps are simple-ingredient silk flosses with a clear PFAS-free statement, natural wax coating, and transparent ingredient lists.

So if you’re looking to keep your gums healthy without PFAS exposure, we’ll share which dental flosses contain PFAS, why avoiding these chemicals matters, and which alternatives you can trust for a healthier, PFAS-free oral care routine. So, let's dive right in!

Takeways Key

• PFAS in dental floss is a real concern, but not every floss contains PFAS. Several studies and consumer tests have found PFAS markers in some floss products, while many simple silk and natural-wax flosses appear to be better choices.

• Do not stop flossing. Flossing or another interdental cleaner still matters for oral health. The better goal is to keep the habit and choose a cleaner floss.

• Be careful with “glide,” “smooth slide,” “super slip,” “nonstick,” PTFE, or Teflon-style floss. Those words can point to the kind of slippery coating shoppers are trying to avoid.

• Organic fluorine testing is a screening tool, not a full PFAS compound test. A high organic fluorine result strongly suggests fluorinated chemistry, but it does not name every exact PFAS chemical.

• The strictest PFAS-free dental floss picks are simple and transparent. Look for silk or other natural fibers, candelilla/carnauba/beeswax or plant wax, no PTFE, no vague coatings, and a clear PFAS-free statement.

What are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)?

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. They are a large family of human-made chemicals used to make products resist water, oil, grease, heat, and stains.

You may have heard them called “forever chemicals” because many PFAS do not break down easily in the environment. Some can also build up in people and wildlife over time.

PFAS can show up in everyday products, including nonstick cookware, stain-resistant furniture, waterproof clothing, food packaging, cosmetics, and certain dental floss products.

That’s why a small daily-use product like dental floss deserves a closer look, especially when it goes directly into the mouth.

Want to go deeper? Orbasics has a full guide to products that may contain PFAS, plus a gentle step-by-step guide on how to avoid PFAS.

Why Are PFAS Used in Dental Floss?

PFAS are not added to every dental floss. But they may be used in some floss products to create a slick, nonstick feel so the floss slides easily between tight teeth.

One common red flag is PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), which is a fluorinated polymer best known by the brand name Teflon. In floss, PTFE can create that smooth, slippery glide many people like. The problem is that PTFE belongs to the wider world of fluorinated materials shoppers are trying to avoid when they search for PFAS in dental floss.

PFAS can also show up as processing residues, contamination, or undisclosed coatings. That is why “PFAS-free” claims are most trustworthy when a brand also shares simple ingredients and, ideally, recent testing.

Does Your Dental Floss Have PFAS?

If you’re like me, you’re probably wondering whether the dental floss you’ve been using contains PFAS.

You usually cannot tell by looking at the floss if it contains PFAS, but there are clues. Your floss may be more likely to involve fluorinated chemistry if the packaging uses words like:

• “Glide”

• “Smooth slide”

• “Super slip”

• “Nonstick”

• “PTFE”

• “Teflon”

• “Single-strand”

• “Shred-resistant”

• “Coated for easy glide”

Which Dental Floss Brands Have Been Linked to PFAS?

The Silent Spring Institute and consumer watchdog Mamavation found PFAS in several popular dental floss brands. Mamavation’s 2024 investigation tested 39 floss products for organic fluorine, a screening marker that can indicate PFAS. It found organic fluorine markers in 13 of 39 products. This is important, but it is not the same as identifying every exact PFAS compound. But if you’re using any of these dental flosses, watch out and research before use.

Product or product type	What to know	Notes
Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Deep Clean Floss	Historically linked to very high organic fluorine markers; older Glide products were associated with PFAS concerns.	“Older Oral-B Glide products were linked to PFAS markers. Silent Spring Institute reported in 2026 that Oral-B eliminated PFAS from Glide, so check current packaging and avoid older stock.”
Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Original	Older Glide products were part of earlier PFAS concern.	“Historically associated with PFAS concerns; current formulas should be verified.”
Up & Up Smooth Slide Floss Mint	Reported with high organic fluorine in consumer testing.	“A tested Smooth Slide product was linked to PFAS indicators.”
Colgate Total Mint Waxed Dental Floss	Reported with high organic fluorine in consumer testing.	“A tested Colgate Total floss product was linked to PFAS indicators.”
Solimo Extra Comfort Mint Dental Floss	Reported with high organic fluorine in consumer testing.	“A tested Amazon-brand Solimo floss product was linked to PFAS indicators.”
CVS Health Ease Between SuperSlip Waxed Floss	Listed in the original draft as a product to avoid; the “SuperSlip” language is also a practical red flag.	“Avoid unless the brand provides current PFAS-free confirmation.”
Signature Care Mint Waxed Comfort Floss	Listed in the original draft as a product to avoid.	“Avoid unless the brand provides current PFAS-free confirmation.”

Note: Keep in mind that these aren't the only flosses on the market that contain PFAS. This list simply highlights which tested products contained these chemicals.

Bottom line: Avoid exact products that have been linked to PFAS markers, and be cautious with any floss that uses PTFE/Teflon, “smooth slide,” or “super slip” language unless the brand can provide current PFAS-free confirmation.

Important 2026 Update: Does Oral-B Glide Still Contain PFAS?

Older Oral-B Glide products were linked to PFAS concerns, but Oral-B has reportedly removed PFAS from the Glide line as of 2026. If you have older floss at home, or if the packaging mentions PTFE/Teflon, choose a simpler PFAS-free alternative.

What are the Best PFAS-Free Dental Floss Brands?

"Best"

Etee | Shop Here*

Radius | Shop Here*

TreeBird | Shop Here*

Dental Lace | Shop Here*

BAMBOEARTH | Shop Here*

"Better"

The Humble Co. | Shop Here*

Tom's of Maine | Shop Here*

Desert Essence | Shop Here*

How Do We Choose Our PFAS-Free Floss Picks?

We've rounded up our favorite dental flosses that are free of PFAS while still keeping your teeth and gums healthy. We selected brands that are upfront about what goes into their floss—and what stays out.

Our top picks include brands that meet our strict vetting criteria:

• Ingredient transparency

• Third-party testing, when available

• Confirmation from the brand that PFAS are not intentionally added

• Trusted third-party certifications, when available

"Best" vs "Better"

• Best PFAS-Free Dental Floss: Silk or natural-fiber floss with a clear PFAS-free claim, simple natural wax, no PTFE/Teflon, and transparent ingredients. These are the products we recommend first.

• Better PFAS-Free Dental Floss: Synthetic flosses, such as nylon or polyester, that may test negative for PFAS but still rely on plastic-based materials. These may work better for very tight teeth, but they are not our top low-tox choice.

If silk floss breaks too easily for you, a “better” nylon floss with documented PFAS-free testing may be a practical backup. Oral care still matters. The goal is progress, not perfection.

The Best PFAS-Free Floss Brands for Safer Daily Oral Care

Radius - Unscented, Plastic-Free Silk Dental Floss* (Our Top Pick)*

Best For: Unscented, minimal-ingredient floss

Certifications: B Corp, PETA Cruelty-Free, American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance

Natural Materials: Silk, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Carnauba Wax

Pricing: $5.00

Why We Like It:

Not a fan of flavored floss? You'll enjoy Radius' unscented dental floss. Radius is a strong fit for sensitive households because the brand clearly describes its silk floss as free from PFAS and other common additives. The ingredient list is refreshingly simple: silk thread and a natural wax coating.

This biodegradable option also skips artificial sweeteners, pfas chemicals, preservatives, and petroleum-based fibers like nylon. Instead, this plastic-free dental floss is made from pure, hand-spun silk for a more natural feel and a healthy smile.

This is the kind of everyday swap Orbasics loves: small, soft, practical, and easy to repeat. If you prefer unflavored floss or you are sensitive to strong mint, Radius is especially worth considering.

What to know: Like most silk floss, it may snap if you pull too hard. If your teeth are very tight, try short, careful motions.

PFAS-Free? Yes. Radius offers a natural dental floss marketed as PFAS-free. It’s also recommended by the Center for Environmental Health on their list of PFAS-free floss picks.

Shop Radius here*

TreeBird Pure Silk Eco Floss*

Best for: A plastic-free, refillable eco floss

Material: Peace silk, candelilla wax, mint essential oil

Packaging: Refillable glass container and compostable-style refill options

Why We Like It:

TreeBird is one of the cleanest fits for this article because it combines the things we want to see: simple ingredients, PFAS-free language, no artificial colors or fragrances, and a plastic-free mindset.

t also received a “GO” evaluation from Million Marker, which is useful because it adds another low-tox signal beyond the brand’s own marketing.

What to know: TreeBird’s silk floss may feel less slippery than glide floss. That can actually be a good thing, because the slightly grippy texture helps sweep away debris.

Shop TreeBird here*

Dental Lace - Refillable Silk Dental Floss with Mint Flavor*

Best For: Refills

Certifications: B Corp, USDA Biobased Product

Eco-Friendly Ingredients: Silk, Plant-based Wax, and Mint Essential Oil

Pricing: $12.99 (Glass container + 2 floss spools)

Why We Like It:

If you're looking for refillable options, you'll love Dental Lace's PFAS-free floss. I really like that this non-toxic floss carries the USDA Biobased certification, so you can feel good knowing it’s completely made from natural ingredients. But what really makes this flavored floss stand out is its refillable glass dispenser. This minimalist glass jar is super easy to use and barely takes up any space in your cabinet!

Like other silk flosses, it has a learning curve. A little practice pressing down gently helps prevent snapping and makes it glide smoothly between your teeth.

PFAS-Free? Yes. Dental Lace floss is coated with plant-based wax, marketed as PFAS-free, and has earned a spot on the Center for Environmental Health’s PFAS-free floss recommendations.

Shop Dental Lace here*

Etee - Cruelty-Free, PFAS-Free Mulberry Silk Dental Floss

Best For: Peace Silk

Certifications: N/A

Ethical Ingredients: Mulberry Silk, Candelilla Wax, and Natural Peppermint Flavouring

Pricing: $12.00 (Glass container + 2 floss spools)

Why We Like It:

Want to go plastic-free but feel uneasy about how silk is sourced? Etee's ethically-made floss uses mulberry silk, also known as Ahimsa Silk or peace silk. Unlike conventional silk harvesting, peace silk producers collect the fibers without killing the silkworms. Additionally, Etee's floss is thinner than many other silk brands, which is a huge plus if you have tightly spaced teeth.

I love the slightly grippy texture of this cruelty-free silk floss—it feels like it grabs more debris than glide-style floss. Plus, it’s a favorite among dentists, who not only recommend it, but use it themselves!

PFAS-Free? Yes. Etee floss is coated with a natural wax and is marketed as free from PFAS chemicals.

Shop Etee here*

BAMBOEARTH - Biodegradable & Eco-Friendly Dental Floss*

Best For: Zero Waste

Certifications: USDA Biobased Product

Sustainable Ingredients: Silk, Candelilla Wax, Peppermint Oil

Pricing: $9.97 (2 packs)

Why We Like It:

If you’re trying to reduce your environmental impact, Bamboearth’s eco-friendly dental floss will support your oral health while cutting down on plastic waste. When you choose this sustainable brand, your dental care products arrive in 100% compostable packaging made from recycled materials. Additionally, their biodegradable silk floss is gentler than traditional nylon floss and offers more grip!

But more importantly, this eco-friendly floss is fully free from toxic chemicals.

PFAS-Free? Yes. Bamboearth is coated with a natural wax.

Shop BAMBOEARTH here*

The "Better" PFAS-Free Floss to Upgrade Your Oral Care Routine

The Humble Co. - Vegan & Affordable Dental Floss*

Best For: Budget-Friendly Floss

Certifications: PETA Cruelty-Free, Vegan Certified

Non-Toxic Ingredients: Nylon, Candelilla Shrub Wax Coating, Mentha Piperita

Pricing: $12.99 (4 packs)

Why We Like It:

Searching for a PFAS-free floss that won’t stretch your budget? With this vegan option, you’ll get the same thorough clean as traditional floss—without the higher price many non-toxic options come with. This is my go-to recommendation for anyone switching to non-toxic floss, as it performs just like traditional options. This vegan dental floss is stronger than silk flosses and easily removes plaque without irritating your gums. Plus, it has a subtle, refreshing mint flavor that's not overpowering!

PFAS-Free? Yes, Mamavation’s independent testing confirms The Humble Co. floss is free from PFAS.

Why Better? This floss is made from nylon, which may contain other harsh chemicals.

Shop The Humble Co. here*

Tom's of Maine - Naturally Waxed, Antiplaque Flat Dental Floss*

Best For: Deep Cleaning

Certifications: B Corp, American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance, PETA Cruelty-Free

Toxin-Free Ingredients: Nylon, Beeswax, Carnauba Wax, Jojoba Wax, Acacia Senegal Gum, Commiphora Myrrha Resin Extract, Propolis Cera, Mint Oils

Pricing: $29.99 (6 packs)

Why We Like It:

If you're struggling with plaque buildup, Tom's of Maine's PFAS-free dental floss is a fantastic choice for supporting your oral health. This thick, non-toxic dental floss effectively grabs buildup instead of sliding over it, clearing out food particles and plaque better than most alternatives. I especially like how this dental floss stays securely wrapped around my fingers and doesn’t slide around while I’m using it!

That said, because it’s quite thick, this floss can be difficult to slide between tightly spaced teeth.

PFAS-Free? Yes, Mamavation's and Silent Spring Institute's independent testing verify that Tom's of Maine floss is free from PFAS.

Why Better? Since it’s made from nylon, this floss may contain other synthetic chemicals.

Shop Tom's of Maine here*

Desert Essence - Gluten-Free, Tea Tree Oil Dental Tape*

Best For: Healthy Gums

Certifications: B Corp, Leaping Bunny

Sustainable Ingredients: Nylon, Beeswax, Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint Oil, Spearmint Oil

Pricing: $34.95 (6 packs)

Why We Like It:

Desert Essence's dental tape is a game changer for people with wider spaces between their teeth and even for those dealing with gum disease. This gluten-free dental tape is thicker than standard string floss, offering a broader surface area that completely sweeps away plaque.

But my favorite part? The hint of tea tree oil. This pure plant extract provides natural antibacterial and soothing properties, which visibly helps reduce inflammation and bleeding!

PFAS-Free? Yes, Mamavation's and Silent Spring Institute's independent testing confirm that Desert Essence floss contains no PFAS.

Why Better? This floss is made from nylon, which may contain other potentially harmful chemicals.

Shop Desert Essence here*

Should You Worry About PFAS in Dental Floss?

The honest answer is: yes, it is worth paying attention to — but no, you should not stop cleaning between your teeth.

Dental floss is different from a jacket, pan, or food wrapper because it is used directly inside the mouth. Research on exactly how much PFAS can move from floss into the body is still limited, so we should avoid overclaiming. But repeated direct contact, plus evidence from blood-level studies and product testing, makes PFAS-free floss a smart, low-effort swap.

This definitely raises the alarm about direct oral contact with PFAS-coated floss, especially since oral mucosa can be 4 to 4,000 times more permeable than skin!

A recent study even discovered that women who use Oral-B Glide had higher levels of certain PFAS in their blood than women who don't use that type of floss. But as Philippe Grandjean, adjunct professor at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health explains, participants could have been exposed to PFAS from other sources, like nonstick cookware or food packaging. Still, Grandjean points out that, unlike floss, people don’t usually chew on those other sources.

Should you stop flossing? Not at all! Flossing is essential for maintaining good oral health, as it helps prevent cavities and gum disease. Think of this as one gentle layer of reduction. You do not need to panic. You can simply choose a better floss and move on with your day.

How PFAS Exposure May Affect Health

The biggest problem with PFAS is the mounting evidence linking them to harmful health effects. PFAS research is still evolving, but major health agencies have linked PFAS exposure to several possible health effects, including:

• Changes in cholesterol levels

• Lower antibody response to some vaccines

• Changes in liver enzymes

• Pregnancy-related blood pressure concerns

• Small decreases in infant birth weight

• Weakened immune system response

• Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer for some PFAS

• Possible effects on hormones, and development

These risks depend on the type of PFAS, dose, length of exposure, life stage, and individual health factors. Dental floss is only one possible exposure source, but it is an easy one to swap.

Harmful Chemicals in Conventional Dental Floss

Manufacturers often add toxic chemicals to reduce costs or "improve" the user experience. But when it comes to your health, these toxins can do more harm than good in the long run:

• Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) - Third-party tests have found PFAS in about one out of every three dental floss products tested. PFAS are often used to make dental floss glide more smoothly between teeth. That said, these toxins have been linked to multiple health problems.

• Synthetic fibers - Dental floss is usually made from nylon or polyester. On top of their environmental impact, these plastics may contain harmful chemicals like bisphenols and phthalates, which are known endocrine disruptors linked to cancer and reproductive issues. Additionally, health experts believe the friction between plastic fibers and your teeth during flossing may shed tiny plastic particles right in your mouth!

• Petroleum-based waxes and coatings - In addition to PFAS, manufacturers may also add other petroleum-based coatings, like paraffin wax. These coatings may be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), some of which may be carcinogenic.

• Vague flavor systems - The artificially “fresh mint” flavor often comes from a long list of chemicals. Since dental floss flavors are usually considered trade secrets, brands aren’t required to disclose those ingredients. However, some "flavoring" ingredients are known allergens and endocrine disruptors.

So, why risk your health when safer ways to care for your mouth exist? Let's explore a few things to keep in mind when shopping for non-toxic dental floss!

What to Know Before You Buy Dental Floss

To ensure your dental floss is completely safe and free of PFAS, consider these tips:

• Look for a clear PFAS-free claim. Bonus points for organic fluorine or total fluorine testing.

• Avoid PTFE and Teflon. These are the biggest label red flags.

• Be cautious with “glide,” “smooth slide,” “super slip,” and “nonstick.” These words do not prove PFAS, but they deserve a closer look.

• Choose natural fibers when possible. Silk is the most common low-tox floss material.

• Choose natural waxes. Candelilla, carnauba, beeswax, and plant-based waxes are better than mystery coatings.

• Prefer transparent brands. If a brand will not share basic ingredients, skip it.

• Keep flossing comfortable. If silk breaks between very tight teeth, ask your dentist about interdental brushes, water flossers, or a PFAS-free synthetic backup.

You can also use this simple question when contacting a brand:

“Can you confirm that this dental floss contains no intentionally added PFAS, PTFE, Teflon, fluorinated coatings, or fluorinated processing aids? Do you have recent total fluorine or organic fluorine test results?”

Should You Stop Flossing Because of PFAS?

No. Please do not stop flossing just because some dental floss products have raised PFAS concerns.

The American Dental Association recommends cleaning between your teeth once daily with floss or another interdental cleaner. The softer, safer path is to keep the habit and choose a floss that better matches your values.

If flossing hurts, bleeds, or feels impossible, check in with your dentist. You may need a different technique, interdental brushes, or a water flosser.

Are Water Flossers a Good PFAS-Free Alternative?

A water flosser can be helpful, especially for braces, bridges, implants, or wider spaces between teeth. It also avoids the question of PFAS-coated string entirely. But it may not replace traditional floss for everyone.

The best tool is the one you will use consistently and comfortably. For many people, that may be a mix of PFAS-free floss and a water flosser.

Final Thoughts: A Cleaner Smile, One Tiny Swap at a Time

Learning about PFAS in dental floss can feel unsettling at first. I get it. Nobody wants to discover that something as ordinary as floss might carry chemicals we would rather avoid.

But this is also empowering. You do not have to overhaul your entire bathroom overnight. You can start with one small swap: choose a simple PFAS-free silk floss, keep caring for your gums, and let that tiny daily ritual feel a little cleaner.

At Orbasics, we care deeply about the quiet little things that touch our bodies every day. A soft organic cotton shirt. A pair of gentle organic leggings. A floss thread that slips between your teeth each night. These tiny choices add up. If you’re already exploring non-toxic living, learning about PFAS in clothing, or wondering how to avoid PFAS, your dental floss is a smart next place to look.

Small choices are still choices. And when they become habits, they can shape a softer, healthier home.

FAQs

Which dental flosses do not have PFAS?

Based on current ingredient transparency and PFAS-free claims, safer PFAS-free dental floss options include Nudge PFAS Free Silk Dental Floss, Radius Natural Biodegradable Silk Floss, TreeBird Pure Silk Eco Floss, and Dental Lace Silk Dental Floss. Always check the current product page and packaging because formulas can change.

Which dental floss should I avoid?

Avoid floss with PTFE, Teflon, fluorinated coatings, or unclear “nonstick” coatings. You may also want to avoid exact products that have been linked to high organic fluorine markers in testing, such as older Oral-B Glide products, Up & Up Smooth Slide Floss Mint, Colgate Total Mint Waxed Dental Floss, and Solimo Extra Comfort Mint Dental Floss.

What products contain the most PFAS?

PFAS are commonly associated with stain-resistant fabrics, water-repellent clothing, nonstick cookware, some food packaging, certain cosmetics, firefighting foam, and some personal care products. If you’re reducing exposure, dental floss is a simple place to start, then move on to clothing, cookware, and cosmetics.

Does organic fluorine mean PFAS?

Organic fluorine is a screening marker. A high result can suggest PFAS or other fluorinated chemistry, but it does not identify each exact PFAS compound. That is why the most accurate wording is “PFAS markers” unless a test names specific PFAS chemicals.