| abstract |
Improved compositions comprising a mixture of particulate materials with water-based liquids containing water-soluble polymers and surfactants are provided. Examples of particulate powders include mixtures of calcium silicate, calcium aluminate, calcium sulfate, and hydroxyapatite. Examples of water-soluble polymers include polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetates, polyacrylic acid, and polymethacrylic acid. Surfactants such as sodium dodecyl sulfate are added to the composition to interact with the polymeric materials. The compositions are particularly suitable for sealing and obturating dental root canals and root apices. The composition provides a stable barrier to bacterial and fluid leakage in the root canal system of a tooth. In addition, the compositions help promote the growth of new bone and tissue surrounding the root-tip area or dentin tissue that covers an injured or amputated pulp. |