Despite FDA report, dentists don't see the harm in sealants

Despite FDA report, dentists don't see the harm in sealants
By: Adrianne Flores
CHARLOTTE -- Millions of children get sealants every year to protect their teeth against cavities.
"A sealant is like a mechanical barrier. It's like putting a cover or a lid. Typically, we do sealants on six-year molars in general because they're really about one of the best preventative things in dentistry besides fluoride," said pediatric dentist Scott Weinstein,
The FDA has warned consumers to limit their exposure to Bisphenol A, a chemical found in sealants, but Weinstein, who has placed sealants on countless teeth over the past decade, says parents shouldn't panic.
"There’s typically a very, very low level in there," he said. "When you look at the risk-reward of a sealant, the pros outweigh the cons."
In much higher doses, some studies have shown BPA could affect brain and gland function in children and adults. The FDA recommends anyone getting a sealant that contains the chemical -- some manufacturers are making BPA-free sealants -- to wipe any excess from their mouths first then rinse.
The FDA reports pregnant women should wait until after they have their baby before having the procedure done