There has been a growing concern in the Dental World and Parents about the potential estrogenic properties of bis-Phenol A (BPA), one of the co-products of Sealants and Composite fillings.
There has been accumulating evidence that BPA and its derivatives can pose health risks to kids' endocrine system.
A thorough study done by Journal of Pediatrics in an article posted at this link systematically collected and criticaly evaluated the literature for the possible BPA toxicity using various safety data sheets available.
They were cautious that BPA is indeed released from dental resins after enzymatic hydrolysis within the first 3 hours of placing. BPA as such does have some endocne-disrupting effects due to its estrogenic potential. But ADA suggests that the quantity is 200 times lower than the dose what EPA actually permits. "The EPA level is based on daily exposure. The measurable exposure to BPA from sealants occurs one time—at the time of placement."
So should we be scared as of now?
May be not.
As on the basis of proven benefits of resin-based dental products including Dental Sealants and the brevity of BPA exposure, the Journal of Pediatrics actually recommends using BPA with a simple caution which even ADA reitrates. According to ADA, "BPA exposure may be minimized by cleaning and rinsing surfaces of sealants and composites immediately after placement."
The Journal of Pediatrics also suggested to minimize the use during pregnancy whenever possible
and dental companies manufacturing should report complete information about the products with BPA Also every effort done to minimize its usage in the future dental products.
