calciumhydroxidepaste

Calcium hydroxide paste is a dental material whose active component is calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2). It is used mainly in dentistry as a direct or indirect pulp capping agent, as a base or liner under restorations, and as an intracanal medicament in endodontic treatments. The paste form allows placement in small cavities or root canal spaces where a more viscous paste is needed.

Composition and formulations vary. Calcium hydroxide paste typically consists of calcium hydroxide suspended in a vehicle such as water, glycerin, saline, or propylene glycol. Many commercial preparations include additives to enhance radiopacity (for visibility on X-rays) and antimicrobial activity, such as iodoform or other agents. The pH of calcium hydroxide paste is highly alkaline, usually around 12.5 to 13, which contributes to its antimicrobial properties and its ability to stimulate hard tissue formation.

Applications in dentistry include direct and indirect pulp capping to protect exposed pulps and encourage dentin bridge formation, acting as a temporary liner or base under restorative materials, and serving as an intracanal medicament to disinfect the root canal system during endodontic therapy. It is generally not used as a permanent filling material and is typically removed or replaced before final restoration.

Mechanism and properties: the high pH provides antibacterial effects and supports dentinogenesis by stimulating odontoblasts. However, calcium hydroxide paste can be moderately soluble in tissue over time, may cause irritation with prolonged contact, and does not provide a strong seal, requiring subsequent restoration with other materials.

Safety and handling follow standard dental material guidelines, with precautions to limit tissue exposure and ensure proper application.