BPA Fillings Linked To Increased Risk of Behaviour Problems
A new study has suggested that BPA (bisphenol A) fillings could be linked to behavioural problems in children. Researchers found that children who had dental fillings made from BPA were more likely to experience behavioural and emotional problems.
Lead researcher Nancy Maserejian, from New England Research Institutes in Watertown, Massachusetts, said that although a link was identified, it was important to note that the research team did not measure the level of BPA in fillings and details of other chemicals in the fillings were not taken into account, she also stressed that the effect was “small.”
Maserejian said that the effect of chemicals leaching from fillings was a controversial subject in the field of dentistry and she wanted to investigate whether the leaching process had any effect on the individual.
BPA fillings are becoming increasingly popular, as they are tooth-coloured and therefore cannot be seen. BPA is also used in the manufacture of packaging materials and tinned goods.
For the study, the research team analysed data from 534 children aged between 6 and 10 years old who had either amalgam or composite fillings; BPA was used in one of the two newer types of filling. After five years, parents and children answered a series of questions about behaviour, performance and attitude and also, school and anxiety and depression. Researchers found that children who had BPA fillings had a higher points score on the 100-point behaviour measures than those who had other fillings; the average score was 2 points higher.
The team found that children who had fillings on the chewing surfaces of their teeth had a higher points score, which may suggest that chemicals start leaching out as a result of the teeth constantly grinding and chewing. Maserejian said that further research would be beneficial.
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