Bisphenol A (BPA) release from pediatric dental restorative materials under varied pH and temperature conditions: an in vitro study

Background: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical compound of concern in pediatric dentistry. Demand for BPA-free dental materials reflects concern about BPA health risks for children. In this study, seven different dental pediatric restorative materials (Cention Forte Filling Material, Equia Forte HT Fil, Stela Self Cure, Riva Light Cure, Riva Self Cure, Fuji IX GP Fast and Cention Primer) were evaluated for BPA release. Methods: Disks (10 mm diameter and 2 mm thickness; n = 3 for each material) were prepared following the manufacturers’ instructions and immersed in buffer solutions at pH 4.8, 6.8, and 8.8. Samples were stored at 37 ◦C and 44 ◦C for 1, 7, and 28 days and then analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with mass spectrometry (MS). Results: BPA release was highest under acidic conditions at 44 ◦C, particularly after 1 day of exposure. Cention Primer exhibited the highest BPA release, with a peak concentration of 1.31 ± 0.17 µg/L after 1 day at 44 ◦C in acidic conditions. Stela Self Cure followed, with 0.51 ± 0.10 µg/L under the same conditions. Under neutral and basic conditions, no BPA release was observed, except for Cention Primer. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this in vitro study, BPA release from pediatric restorative materials is time- and pH-dependent. The results reflect short- to medium-term behavior (up to 28 days) and cannot be extrapolated to long-term clinical safety. These findings underscore the clinical importance of minimizing BPA exposure in children by preferring BPA-free restorative options whenever possible.