BPA IN DENTAL SEALANTS

Pediatric dentists often recommend dental sealants for children. The American Dental Association (ADA) describes these as protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of a child's molars. Dental sealants are helpful in preventing decay — but because they are often made of plastics, parents may worry about their child's exposure to bisphenol A (BPA)

What Is BPA?

BPA is a chemical that's mainly used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Polycarbonate plastics are used in food and drink packaging, such as water bottles, while epoxy resins are often used to coat food cans, water supply pipes and other metal products. BPA is also used in some dental materials, including dental sealants.

When BPA is used in food and drink packaging or containers, it's possible for the chemical to seep into the food or beverage. The Mayo Clinic states that there are some potential health concerns associated with exposure to this chemical. BPA may affect children's brains and behavior, and it may also be linked to increased blood pressure. That being said, the Food and Drug Administration deems that current BPA levels in food packaging are safe.