“Not particularly worried” is the most popular response for concerns about the chemicals in dentistry among dentists, according to a new The Wealthy Dentist survey, but the results are pretty evenly split.
The online survey asked dentists from the U.S. and Canada if they are concerned about the safety of dental composite and sealants.
54% were not worried, while 46% had concerns about safety.
Here’s how the dentists responded —
- 21% – Definitely yes! I am very concerned about this issue.
- 25% – Somewhat. I have some worries about safety.
- 38% – Not really. I’m interested, but not particularly worried.
- 16% – Definitely not! I’m not worried at all.
“It’s about the same argument as the amalgam and mercury issue. I don’t see that the literature to date points in any direction toward concern about BPA!” a Mississippi dentist said.
BPA in tooth fillings has been in the news recently due to a study linking the chemical to behavioral problems in children.
According to Dr. John Reitz of Reading Eagle Press, “When dental manufacturers became aware of the health risk of BPA they made a conscious effort at eliminating or at least limiting the amount in dental products. According to research by the American Dental Association, BPA is rarely used today as an ingredient in dental products.”
Most of the dentists who responded to this survey agree that there are minimal risks from dental chemicals.
Here’s what many dentists had to say on the subject —
“We need more long-term studies.” (New Jersey dentist)
“To temper this, we have to remember that ANYTHING in the body outside of what is indigenous is considered foreign and has potential to elicit yet another of those unexpected side effects, sort of like most of Congress’ laws. Since I stopped doing sealants years and years ago, I am less concerned about the effect on most adults.” (General dentist)
“Amalgam is on its way out. Let the chemist reformulate BPA-free dental products!” (Alabama dentist)
“I didn’t know that I need to be concerned…” (California dentist)
“No patients have shown any worry. I do feel extensive research should be conducted.” (Mississippi dentist)
“Yes – patients ask about it! But I understand there are different kinds…some more damaging than others.” (Michigan dentist)
“I’ve never had a patient even mention it, unlike the ‘wackos’ who won’t let fluoride touch their kids lips…” (General dentist)
“None of our patients have mentioned it, yet. But, I won’t be surprised if or when they do in the future. I’m personally concerned about BPA in composites. I certainly didn’t want it in the plastic baby bottles my child used, so why would I want it in composite resin dental restorations? Dentistry certainly needs to have BPA free restorative materials.” (Ohio dentist)
“Parents are now asking me about our materials and if they contain BPAs.” (Pediatric dentist)
The ADA Council on Scientific Affairs has not identified evidence to suggest that the use of resin-based dental sealants or composite resin restorative materials is linked to adverse health effects from BPA exposure. (Source: ADA)
Dentists, what are your thoughts on chemicals used in dentistry?
