Dental floss materials found linked to cancer, infertility and thyroid disease

Dental floss could cause cancer and infertility because many manufacturers coat it in a Teflon-like substance that contains highly toxic chemicals.

These have been linked to kidney and testicular tumours, thyroid disease, high cholesterol, low birth weight, decreased fertility and effects on the immune system.

The study of 178 middle-aged women found those who used Oral-b Glide were prone to higher levels of PFHXS (perfluorohexanesulfonic acid) in their body.

These are compounds known as PFAS – polyfluoroalkyl substances used to make materials stain, stick grease and water proof. Oral-b Glide dental floss are made from a plastic holder with a piece of floss strung between two prongs.

The controversial group of man-made chemicals can be found in both industrial and consumer products. They do not break down – meaning they can accumulate in the body.

Flossing is meant to remove plaque but less than a quarter of adults use floss regularly and one person in three has never flossed.

The latest Public Health England guidance says there is no strong evidence that flossing makes any difference to oral hygiene compared with brushing with toothpaste.