Bisphenol A (BPA) is widely used in the manufacture of certain plastics, and there has been some concern about the safety of BPA in consumer products. Although laboratory tests have suggested that BPA may mimic the effects of estrogen and thus may affect reproduction and development, observations in laboratory animals have not been observed in humans. BPA is not an ingredient in either dental sealants or composites. There is some evidence that certain dental sealants, and to a lesser extent composites, may contribute to low-level BPA exposure. This is probably due to the action of salivary enzymes on a minor ingredient. The ADA sees no cause for concern at this time regarding potential BPA exposure from composites or sealants. Whether a substance is harmful to human health depends upon the quantity of the substance to which people are exposed. Nevertheless, the ADA states that it supports additional research into how much BPA people are actually exposed to and what levels of exposure affect health. The US Department of Health and Human Services has commissioned a report on the chemistry of BPA, its intended uses, and sources of human exposure, and has convened an independent panel to review the results of the report. These are important steps toward identifying the potential for any health and/or environmental concerns.
(Source: ADA, ada.org/prof/resources/positions/statements/bisphenola.asp; accessed April 12, 2007)
