With a set-up as thorough as you describe, you probably checked the fence for parallel. I think you can even open it up a tiny bit and still get an even cut.
There used to be a gadget called Kerf Keeper which you stuck into the kerf as you continued to rip. It was T-shaped and expanded with a thumb screw I think. I have used wedges but they popped out when the board wiggled. With your outfeed table, you might not have that problem.
A blade with more set may consign an extra strip to dust, but might be enough to reduce the back-cutting.
It wouldn't occur to me to use a dust mask just to cut a piece of wood, but for making that much dust, it makes sense.
Mike
...............
: on the strip side the kerf wants to close up on the last few feet of the
: cut.

: Ken