Bisphenol A Glycerolate Dimethacrylate (bis-GMA)
What is it?
BIS-GMA is a common methacrylic monomer, a combination of bisphenol A and glycidyl methacrylate (epoxy resin).
What is a monomer? A monomer is a starting material or single unit from which a polymer is built. It refers to the repeat units that make up the polymer chains. Example: Ethylene is the monomer for polyethylene, and styrene for polystyrene.
How do I avoid it?
You should avoid any contact with this substance. Avoidance requires reading labels, package inserts, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and on occasion, direct communication with the manufacturer.
This material can penetrate most latex and vinyl gloves. Polyethylene and nitrile gloves give better protection. Because this material is a strong sensitizer and quickly penetrates most gloves, persons handling this material should use a “no-touch” technique.
It is optimal to completely avoid exposure to the ingredients to which you are allergic. If you must be exposed to this acrylate (for example, because of your job), you may try to wear nitrile gloves and change them every 10 minutes. Acrylates pass through nitrile gloves if they are worn for longer periods of time. Other gloves such as rubber latex gloves are less desirable since acrylates pass through them quickly.
Uses:
- Dental composite materials
- Dental bonding agent
- Extensive use in industrial applications
- Dental sealant
- Artificial nails, especially gel nail products
Other names for BIS-GMA:
- 2,2-bis(4-(2-Hydroxy-3-methacryloxypropoxy) phenylpropane
- bisphenol A diglycidyl methacrylate
Potential cross-reacting/co-reacting substances:
• Other acrylates
Rev07072025
