The toxicity of Bis-GMA, a basic monomer of the dental composite’s organic matrix – a narrative review

Abstract

Abstract The long history of bisphenol A glycidyl dimethacrylate (Bis GMA) as a major component in resin-based composites is also associated with numerous reports of its toxicity. Since one of the substrates used in the production of BisGMA is bisphenol A (BPA), the question of its release from materials containing this monomer is also raised. Due to the widespread use of BisGMA in modern dentistry, the aim of this narrative review is to provide and summarize information on its toxicity based on the current literature. It covers the chemical structure and possible synthesis pathways of BisGMA, as well as the toxicity of its substrates. The toxicity of the BisGMA monomer is also discussed, in particular its effect on pulp cells, the release of composite components in the gastrointestinal tract, and its metabolic degradation. BisGMA and BPA are eluted from resin composites in the oral cavity. Acute toxicity is unlikely due to the small amounts of amounts eluted, but knowledge of chronic exposure is very limited. In addition, the amount of BPA released from dental materials is incomparably low, considering the environmental exposure levels in everyday life. Composite resins provide a highquality treatment that outweighs the potential complications.