Experts Discuss Bisphenol A

Forum Introduction

		The chemical bisphenol A (BPA) is used to make many plastic products used in American homes, including baby bottles. Recently, two expert panels examined whether BPA is likely to have adverse effects on human health. Two scientsts answered your questions on BPA.

Is there an online source to determine which plastics contain BPA?

Does my filtered water pitcher contain BPA?

What is my likely exposure level to BPA? What level is dangerous?

How does BPA get from a plastic water bottle into the water?

Do softer plastic bottles contain BPA?

Does BPA pose a risk to me as an adult?

Should I have my baby tested for exposure to BPA?

How may patients be exposed to BPA through dental sealants?

Does heat affect the release of BPA?


	Jennifer Taylor of Harrodsburg, Ky., asks

	I am a student of dental hygiene. How are patients exposed to BPA through dental sealants and composites? Also, if BPA is more dangerous to fetuses and infants, should pregnant women decline dental sealants and composite fillings?

Retha Newbold responds:

Reports suggest that BPA can leach from dental sealants and composites, especially immediately after the procedure is completed.

You are correct in that the critical window of exposure is during fetal and early childhood development, therefore as a precautionary measure, it seems reasonable that pregnant women avoid these dental procedures. Certainly they should discuss their concerns with their dental staff and physicians.

Earl Gray responds:

There are many, many sources of information about BPA in plastics on the Web. Some are from NGOs and others are industry Web sites. I would suggest that one just search on google or some other search engine for "BPA plastics" and read a variety of these from both sides of the issue to get a balanced idea of the controversy about this chemical and its purported toxicity. There is also information on BPA levels from dental sealants and other products.



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