Bisphenol A - A real threat in Pediatric Dentistry?

Introduction: Recent studies have linked the bisphenol A (BPA), part of dental materials constitution used in Pediatric Dentistry, particularly in fissure sealants and composites, to the occurrence of biological changes based on this substance binding potential to estrogen receptors. Objetives: The present work aims to provide a narrative literature review, featuring BPA exposure when released in the oral cavity and its hypothetical risks to children health. Material and Methods: A literature search was done in Pubmed/Medline using the terms "Bisphenol A" and "sealants" as keywords, and limited to studies in humans published in the last 10 years with abstract available. Results: A total of 121 publications was identified according to the inclusion criteria, 17 were selected after examining the abstract scientifical content. Most of the studies were reviews (only 2 were systematic) and clinical studies. Discussion and Conclusions: The studies are not unequivocally conclusive about the existence of a marked risk to children health and the need of developing additional studies with higher level of scientific evidence in humans is recognized. Although the lack of scientific evidence, several precautions after using BPA-containing dental materials are recommended to reduce its potential absorption. Manufacturers growing concern about minimizing this substance in dental materials is also mentioned in literature. Keywords: Bisphenol A, sealants, composites, dental materials, pediatric dentistry, children.