Heraeus Kulzer has launched a new line of composites, called Venus, that are free of bisphenol A (BPA).
Both of the company's Venus Diamond and Venus Pearl composites are free of BPA and bisphenol A glycidyl methacrylate (bis-GMA), the vendor said. The composites are based on a tricyclodecan-urethane-monomer and are designed to deliver minimal shrinkage, high strength, and good surface hardness while being easy and convenient to handle.
A debate has raged within the dental industry regarding the use of composites containing bis-GMA. The center of the debate concerns BPA, a key ingredient in bis-GMA. An estrogen-mimicking compound, BPA is widely used in clear plastics, food-contact resins, and inks used for store receipts. Despite the ongoing debate about possible health risks associated with BPA, approximately 90% of modern composites include bis-GMA.
Both of the new composites are suitable both for single-shade and multilayering techniques, and are compatible with all commercially available adhesive and bonding techniques. Both Venus Diamond and Venus Pearl have an extended working time under the operating light and do not stick to instruments.
Other composites in the Venus product line include Venus Bulk Fill, designed for simple bulk filling techniques in increments up to 4 mm. The composite is also BPA- and bis-GMA-free.