Photopolymer Resins: Hidden Threats to Your Health?

Photopolymer resins are one of the most commonly used materials in dentistry, but they may pose serious health risks. These resins can release harmful substances such as monomers and Bisphenol-A (BPA) if they are not fully polymerized or during the degradation processes inside the mouth. These substances can damage cell structures, cause inflammation, and even increase the risk of cancer. It is crucial to protect your oral health from these hidden threats.

Dental Resins: A Protector or a Threat to Your Health?

There are some critical factors to consider when choosing a safe photopolymer resin. These factors are key to protecting your health and eliminating risks completely:

• Complete Polymerization: Polymerization is the process where monomers in the resin chemically combine to form a strong and durable structure. Complete polymerization minimizes the release of free monomers and toxic substances. Incomplete polymerization can lead to serious health problems in the long term.
• Biocompatibility: The resin must be in full harmony with human tissue and should not cause allergic reactions or irritation in the gums or oral mucosa. Non-biocompatible resins can jeopardize your oral health.
• Non-Toxic Formulas: Resins that do not have toxic effects in the short or long term are the safest way to protect your health. Resins containing toxic substances disrupt the delicate balance of your body.
• Stability and Durability: The resin should be resistant to chemical and physical challenges in the mouth. Otherwise, it can degrade quickly, causing harm to your health.

The reaction draws attention to the potential risks caused by the use of non-biocompatible dental materials. These reactions can manifest as redness, swelling, or sensitivity in the gums and surrounding tissues, leading to discomfort during the treatment process. Therefore, choosing materials with proven biocompatibility is crucial in dental treatments.

Safe Choices in Dental Prosthetics:

The most effective way to protect your health is to ensure that your dentist uses CE-certified resins in all temporary prosthetics and dental prostheses that enter the mouth. For example, the CE certification, which transitioned from MDD to MDR regulation in 2022, guarantees that the products meet the safety standards of the European Union. The MDR (Medical Device Regulation) aims to ensure the safety of medical devices with stricter rules and an expanded scope compared to MDD (Medical Device Directive). This certification indicates that the products comply with safety and quality standards, with international standards such as ISO 13485 forming the foundation of this process.