Is Dental Floss Eco-Friendly?
January 9, 2023.
2
min read
Why Flossing Is Important
Interdental cleaning promotes gum health by preventing dental biofilm—or plaque—from building up between your teeth. Dental floss, floss picks, and water flossers can reach areas your toothbrush can’t—lowering your risk of developing tooth decay and gum diseases such as gingivitis.
What Is Dental Floss Made Of?
Dental floss is typically made from synthetic waxed nylon or Teflon. The mixed materials used in traditional floss make recycling too difficult–some research suggests it can take 80 years to break down in a landfill. Plastic dental floss picks are also made of mixed materials that are too small to recycle.
Can Dental Floss Be Reused?
The American Dental Association does not recommend reusing dental floss. Multiple uses of nylon floss can cause it to fray and transfer bacteria and food particles to your mouth.
Eco-friendly Dental Floss Alternatives
There are plenty of environmentally conscious alternatives you can purchase without sacrificing your oral health. Companies have developed recyclable toothpaste tubes and programs that recycle dental floss containers. Cardboard and other biodegradable materials are also becoming more commonly used in dental floss containers.
Some eco-friendly interdental floss options include:
- Silk floss
- All-natural dental floss made from plants and bees’ wax
- Bamboo floss made with charcoal-infused polyester
- Reusable floss picks made from recycled paper
- Water flossers
Making the transition to new habits isn't easy. Just know, there are alternatives out there and small actions you can take to improve your daily routine.
Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
What's behind your smile?
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
What's behind your smile?
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine
Related Articles
The Big Switch: Moving from Training to "Big Kid" Toothpaste
By: Dr. Natalie Carr-Bustillo, DDS, MS
Board Certified Pediatric Dentist
Waxed or Unwaxed Dental Floss? Assessing Your Oral Health Needs
Waxed and unwaxed dental floss are two of the most common types, and they both have their merits. Here's how they differ and how to know which to use.
From Battle to Bonding: Making Brushing Fun for Your Kids
By: Mandy Dennis
Registered Dental Hygienist
What Are Microbeads In Toothpaste?
Learn more about microbeads in toothpaste and how the recent ban is good news for your health and the environment. Also learn about alternatives.
Related Products
Colgate Total Active Prevention Sensitivity Mineral Shield Mint Toothpaste, Gentle Mint
Help prevent sensitivity from day 1* with Colgate Total Active Prevention Sensitivity Mineral Shield Mint Toothpaste.
*with twice daily use
Colgate Total Active Prevention Plaque Cleanse Whitening Toothpaste Gel, Cool Peppermint
Help promote healthy gums using Colgate Total Active Prevention Plaque Cleanse Whitening Toothpaste Gel. This patented tartar prevention toothpaste fights the root cause* of gingivitis, plaque, tartar, cavities, sensitivity, bad breath, weak enamel, and stains and is 2x more effective*** at fighting bacteria, the root cause of oral health problems like cavities and gingivitis.
*via protection against bacteria and dietary exposures, with daily brushing
***via reduction of bacteria vs. non-antibacterial fluoride toothpaste with 2x daily brushing and 4 weeks use
Colgate Total Battery Powered Toothbrush, White
Colgate Total Active Prevention Battery Powered Electric Toothbrush, WhitePower away plaque with Colgate Total Battery Powered Toothbrush.
Colgate Total Active Prevention Fresh Mint Toothpaste
Colgate Total Fresh Mint Toothpaste fights bacteria, the root cause of many oral health issues such as gingivitis, tartar, sensitivity, weak enamel, bad breath, and cavities.
Helping dental professionals
