Risks Involved With Dental Sealants?
As we stated in our last post, dental sealants can prevent cavities in children for years to come. One CDC report says they prevent up to 80% of cavities in the first year of application, and 50% for the following four years. Incredibly, the immediate benefits can last up to 10 years. But are there any risks involved with dental sealants?
Although there are some potential side effects to dental sealants, you may find a better question is, statistically is it worth the risk? Or, do the benefits outweigh the potential negatives?
Check Your Sources
When deciding about something that can affect your health or the health of your family, it is important to check your sources. The internet isn’t always a reliable place to get information, as there are no restrictions on who can publish information.
Potential Side Effects
For many years the general public, especially parents, have been aware of the potential risks associated with exposing children to bisphenol A or BPA. BPA is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins. It has been in use since the 50’s. According to the Mayo Clinic, exposure to BPA is a concern because of the possible health effects on the brain and prostate gland of fetuses, infants and children. It can also affect children’s behavior. The original concern came from the results of a study that showed small amounts of BPA being absorbed by foods stored in plastic containers made using BPA. After hundreds of studies the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has said that “BPA is safe at the very low levels that occur in some foods.”
A Controversial Subject
The fact that many dental sealant’s contain BPA has been a controversial subject blown out of proportion by some internet bloggers. A Healthline hygienists says, “Dental sealants are safe and effective, and they’ve been safe and effective for over 40 years.” The same article stated, “Salivary BPA levels from exposure to BPA peak three hours after a procedure and return to baseline within 24 hours, and blood serum levels of BPA have not been detected in clinical studies.”
Therefore, the dangers of exposure to high levels of BPA in sealants are like levels of BPH exposure through food containers which is minimal.
A second but lesser potential side effect is that a person’s bite can feel abnormal after a sealant is applied because of the extra layer on the tooth. Most don’t notice any difference, but if you do, know that this feeling can go away as the layer wears a bit.
Benefits of Dental Sealants Outweigh Issues
Overall, from a dental health point of view the benefits of dental sealants outweigh any potential issues. In Canada the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is our FDA. They enforce some of the strongest food and drug regulations keeping our products safe for use. You can feel confident that everything used in our dental clinic is completely safe.
Erbsville Dental
If you have any questions about dental sealants ask Dr. Stephen Mathews at Erbsville Dental at your next appointment.
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Accordingly, always seek the advice of your Dentist or other healthcare providers regarding a dental condition or treatment.
