BIS-GMA-based resins in dentistry: Are they safe?

Background, The authors critically surveyed research dealing with the relea se of resin components from dental composites and the potential of these ag ents to mimic or disrupt estrogenic cell responses. Types of Studies Reviewed. The studies reviewed included those on synthetic methods used to make bisphenol A glycidyl methacrylate, or BIS-GMA, and th e biological effects of this resin in : cell culture and animals. The estro genic effect of bisphenol A was targeted because bisphenol A is present as an impurity in some resins (BIS-GMA) and as a degradation product from othe r resins (bisphenol A dimethacrylate, or BIS-DMA). Results. The outcomes of this review revealed that short-term administratio n of BIS-GMA and/or bisphenol A in animals or cell cultures can induce chan ges in estrogen-sensitive organs or cells. However, considering the dosages and routes of administration and the modest response of estrogen-sensitive target organs, the authors conclude that the short-term risk of estrogenic effects from treatments using bisphenol A-based resins is insignificant. L ong-term effects need to be investigated further. Clinical Implications, Commonly used dental resins should not be of concern to the general public; however, pharmacological evaluation of dental mater ials is needed to ensure biologically safe and therapeutically effective su bstances.