Is dental floss healthy?

Dental floss is probably one of those products you don’t give much thought to. We buy it and use it regularly, but how it is made is one of those manufacturing questions you’ve never thought about.

Dental floss is typically made from nylon which is a byproduct of petroleum. The wax coating on most flosses is made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) which is a known carcinogenic that is also used to make the coating for non-stick cookware.

Next time you are buying dental floss, you might like to take a moment to consider your options. If an unwaxed, beeswax substitute or uncoated floss is available that suits you, then making a switch is just one other way you can promote optimal health.

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Lindy Schneider is a writer and researcher with a keen interest in health, wellbeing and natural childcare. She is an advocator of a chemical-free lifestyle in the best interests of her family, the community and a sustainable world. She lives in the Yarra Valley with her partner and two young children.