PTFE Dental Floss
Some dental floss products use PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) as the primary material for its smooth texture and resistance to shredding. Testing has found PFAS in PTFE-based dental floss, and a 2019 study found that women who reported regular use of certain PTFE-based floss brands had higher serum concentrations of specific PFAS compounds including PFHxS. The mechanism is thought to involve PFAS release from floss during use and absorption through gum mucosa, though the contribution relative to other exposure pathways varies by individual.
Dental Waterline Contamination
Dental waterlines — the narrow tubing delivering water to handpieces, air-water syringes, and ultrasonic scalers in dental offices — can accumulate biofilm and various contaminants from municipal water supplies, including PFAS at whatever levels exist in local drinking water. Patients receiving dental procedures involving water spray, irrigation, or suction receive direct oral exposure to dental waterline water. Offices in PFAS-contaminated water service areas deliver PFAS to patients through these routes.
Teflon-Coated Dental Equipment
Various dental equipment components use PFAS-containing coatings for lubrication, non-stick properties, and durability. While direct patient exposure from equipment components is generally low relative to water-based exposure routes, dental professionals with frequent hand contact with PFAS-treated instruments represent an occupational exposure pathway that has received limited research attention.
Practical Recommendations
Consumers concerned about PFAS from dental floss can choose alternatives: PFAS-free waxed floss, silk floss, and water flossers do not involve PFAS contact. Patients in areas with PFAS-contaminated municipal water can inquire whether their dental office uses filtered water for procedures, though this is not yet standard practice. The dental floss PFAS exposure pathway is generally considered a modest contributor relative to drinking water and food, but is relevant in the context of cumulative exposure reduction.