Oklahoma Pit and Fissure Sealants State Practice Exam

BPA found in sealant materials can interfere with which hormone?

1. Testosterone

2. Insulin

3. Estrogen

4. Cortisol

The correct answer is: Estrogen

BPA, or Bisphenol A, is a chemical widely used in the production of plastics and resins, including some dental sealants. It is known to be an endocrine disruptor, which means it can interfere with the normal functions of hormones in the body. Among these hormones, BPA is particularly noted for its ability to mimic estrogen, a primary female sex hormone. This mimicry can lead to alterations in various physiological processes that are regulated by estrogen, such as reproductive health, development, and metabolic functions. The interaction of BPA with estrogen receptors can disrupt normal hormonal signaling, leading to potential adverse effects on health. This is why the correct response highlights estrogen as the hormone most significantly affected by BPA found in sealant materials. In comparison, while testosterone, insulin, and cortisol are also vital hormones that impact numerous bodily functions, the primary concern with BPA is its direct influence on estrogen pathways, making it the most relevant answer in this context.