She is also a clinical instructor at University of Pacific School of Dentistry and an editor for Dentistry On-Line. There are actually several types of plastics that are used on both children and adults. These materials include sealants, composite resin, and glass ionomers. These are all polymers of some type and can be used in both primary and permanent teeth. I know that some controversy surrounds the use of dental sealants.
Some people are concerned about the release of so-called estrogen type compounds in sealants.
As of December 1999, I am not aware of any scientific studies that prove sealants are harmful. Sealants can be a wonderful preventative treatment. However, they should be considered on a case by case basis. Those with deep pits and grooves which are unreachable by toothbrush bristles can greatly benefit from sealants. Sealants have been available since the 1970s.