Presence of bisphenol A in endodontic cements

Abstract

Introduction: Root canal treatment has been an effective method in conserving tooth structure and stability after detrimental caries affectation. The procedure of this particular treatment involves the use of specific materials to help conserve the tooth, such as gutta percha and sealant cements to aid in the longevity of the tooth structure and function in the complex mechanisms of the oral cavity. Even though gutta percha is comprised of natural compounds, the composition of sealant cements, more specifically Bisphenol A (BPA), is a cause for concern. Already established as an endocrine-disrupting compound, [1,2] there are various associations with complex diseases such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and breast cancer. Although the mechanisms of toxic behaviours in BPA have been raised as an issue to human health, it remains that further study is required to clarify the threat and to understand its nature. Keywords: Bisphenol A, BPA, endocrine-disrupting, root canal treatment Objectives The primary objective is to discuss and highlight the presence of Bisphenol A in dental materials.: The secondary objectives, for each technique used are: to evaluate the undesirable toxic effects of BPA in humans, to determine the best therapeutic BPA alternatives in the endodontic field. Methodology: Search strategy based on online catalogs (academic Google, Pudmed, Scielo, ...), scientific journals and books, with the keywords: "BPA in dental materials", "Bisphenol A", "endocrine-disrupting", "Root canal treatment", "Endodontic cements", ... etc. The inclusion criteria are: information from organizations, articles and scientific books which are relevant to the topic, 10-year limit, English/Spanish, ...). A literature review was carried out and supported with a PubMed, Medline, ERIC, E-journals Database search on articles published between the years of 2009 and 2022 was executed using a combination of terms relating to bisphenol A, root canal treatments and endodontics. Results: Of the 35 articles analysed, 4 dealt with root canal sealant and 5 with BPAs effect on the human body. Conclusion: Bisphenol A's pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics must be understood in order to launch and evaluate possible health consequences and create mitigation plans since BPA’s pharmacokinetics dictates that exposure should be kept to a minimum in order to lessen the possibility of harmful health effects. Alternatives to BPA should be considered when carefully balancing the benefits and risks for treatment. Proper isolation techniques must still be performed, despite affecting and hindering time management , since the rewards would be greatly beneficial in the pursuit of health.