Health Article

Bisphenol A – is it in Your Dental Products?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an organic compound that is used in the manufacture of many plastics.  BPA has been in the news a great deal lately due to health concerns, and has been banned or limited in many consumer products – including water bottles and baby bottles – in several states and many countries.

Research has shown that BPA is an endocrine disruptor, and can mimic the body’s hormones with negative effects in high doses. Experts are divided over the dangers posed by BPA, and in June of 2009 the FDA announced a decision to reevaluate BPA safety levels.

BPA can be found in medical and dental products, including some sealants and composites. Venus® Diamond, a new dental composite manufactured by Heraeus, is made with a patented chemistry that is BPA free.

In an article in Dental Products Report, Dr. Marc Herman writes:

“Venus Diamond is a BPA-free nano-hybrid composite material for anterior and posterior teeth. It is available in 23 shades and features low shrinkage and advanced mechanical properties. A revised matrix and filler system allow for optimal strength and low shrinkage stress.

Unlike the chemical composition of some competitors reliant on bis-GMA, Venus Diamond is a proprietary non bis-GMA. It meets the criteria for esthetics as well, providing optimum filler density, high wear resistance, color adaptation, ease of polish and an enduring shine.

BPA may leach from dental products after placement, however, in studies no BPA has been found in blood samples, indicating there may be no systemic risk. However, if we have materials that are BPA-free, it may be a smarter, less risky approach to take advantage of those products.”

If you are concerned about BPA and are considering dental composites, ask your dentist about Venus Diamond.

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