U.S. patent number RE33,161 [Application Number 07/163,014] was granted by the patent office on 1990-02-06 for combinations of sparingly soluble calcium phosphates in slurries and pastes as mineralizers and cements.
This patent grant is currently assigned to American Dental Association Health Foundation. Invention is credited to Walter E. Brown, Laurence C. Chow.
United States Patent |
RE33,161 |
Brown , et al. |
February 6, 1990 |
Combinations of sparingly soluble calcium phosphates in slurries
and pastes as mineralizers and cements
Abstract
Dental restorative compositions containing a mixture of Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O and at least one different calcium
phosphate.
Inventors: |
Brown; Walter E. (Rockville,
MD), Chow; Laurence C. (Potomac, MD) |
Assignee: |
American Dental Association Health
Foundation (Gaithersburg, MD)
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Family
ID: |
27388821 |
Appl.
No.: |
07/163,014 |
Filed: |
March 2, 1988 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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539740 |
Oct 6, 1983 |
4518430 |
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373157 |
Apr 29, 1982 |
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Reissue of: |
732515 |
May 9, 1985 |
04612053 |
Sep 16, 1986 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
423/308; 106/35;
423/311; 433/199.1; 433/212.1; 606/76; 106/690; 433/26; 501/1;
433/201.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61L
27/12 (20130101); A61K 8/24 (20130101); A61Q
11/00 (20130101); A61K 6/876 (20200101); C01B
25/327 (20130101); A61K 6/838 (20200101); A61K
6/17 (20200101); A61K 6/69 (20200101); A61L
24/02 (20130101); A61L 2430/12 (20130101); A61K
2800/594 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A61Q
11/00 (20060101); A61L 24/02 (20060101); A61L
27/00 (20060101); A61L 24/00 (20060101); A61L
27/12 (20060101); C01B 25/32 (20060101); C01B
25/00 (20060101); C01B 025/32 (); A61K
006/00 () |
Field of
Search: |
;106/35,38.35,85
;423/308,311 ;433/199.1,201.1,212.1,226,228.1 ;623/16A,16B
;128/92R,92YQ ;501/1 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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2008010 |
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Oct 1979 |
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DE |
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58-58041 |
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Apr 1983 |
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JP |
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Other References
Briner et al., "Significance of Enamel Remineralization," J. Dent.
Res. 11 (Supp. 1): 59-84 (1974). .
Silverstone, "Remineralization Phenomena," Caries Res. 11 (Supp.
1): 59-84 (1977). .
Gelhard et al, "Rehardening of Artificial Enamel Lesions in vivo,"
Caries Res. 13:80-83 (1979). .
Hiatt et al, "Root Preparation I. Obturation of Dentinal Tubules in
Treatment of Root Hyper-Sensitivity," J. Periodontal. 43: 373-380
(1972). .
Zimmerman et al, "The Effect of Remineralization Fluids on Carious
Lesions in vitro," IADR Abstract No. 282 (1979). .
Levine, "Remineralisation of Natural Carious Lesions of Enamel in
vitro," Brit. Dent. J., 137: 132-134 (1974). .
Guide to Dental Material and Devices, 7th Ed. (ADA 1974), pp.
49-66. .
Driskell et al., "Development of Ceramic and Ceramic Composite
Devices for Maxillofacial Application," J. Biomed. Mat. Res. 6:
345-361 (1972). .
Brown and Chow, "Singular Points in the Chemistry of Teeth," IADR
Abstract No. 120 (1975). .
Gregory et al, "Solubility of CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O in the System
Ca(OH).sub.2 --H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 --H.sub.2 O at 5, 15, 25, and 37.5
[C.," J. Res. Nat. Bur. Stand. 74A: 461-475 (1970). .
McDowell et al., "Solubility Study of Calcium Hydrogen Phosphate.
Ion Pair Formation," Inorg. Chem. 10: 1638-1643 (1971). .
Gregory et al, "Solubility of --Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 in the
System Ca(OH).sub.2 --H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 --H.sub.2 O at 5, 15, 25 and
37[C," J. Res. Nat. Bur. Stand. 78A: 667-674 (1974). .
McDowell et al, "Solubility of Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH in the
System Ca(OH).sub.2 --H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 --H.sub.2 O at 5, 15, 25 and
37.5[C," J. Res. Nat. Bur. Stand. 81A: 273-281 (1977). .
Moreno et al, "Stability of Dicalcium Phosphate Dihydrate in
Aqueous Solutions and Solubility of Octacalcium Phosphate," Soil
Sci. Soc. Am. Proc. 21: 99-102 (1960). .
Brown, "Solubilities of Phosphates and Other Sparingly Soluble
Compounds," from Griffith et al, Environmental Phosphorous Handbook
(John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1976. .
Brown et al, "Crystallography of Tetracalcium Phosphate," J. Res.
Nat. Bur. Stands. 69A: 547-551 (1965). .
Patel et al, "Solubility of CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O in the
Quaternary System Ca(OH).sub.2 --H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 --NaCl--H.sub.2 O
at 25[C," J. Rest. Nat. Bur. Stands. 78A: 675-681 (1974). .
LeGeros et al, "Apatitic Calcium Phosphates: Possible Dental
Restorative Materials,"IADR Abstract No. 1482 (1982). .
Pickel et al, "The Effect of a Chewing Gum Containing Dicalcium
Phosphate on Salivary Calcium and Phosphate," Ala J. Med. Sci. 2:
286-287 (1965). .
"NASA and Dentistry"(1977)..
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Primary Examiner: Lieberman; Paul
Assistant Examiner: Skaling; Linda D.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Allegretti & Witcoff, Ltd.
Government Interests
The invention described herein was made in the course of research
partially supported by a grant from the National Institute of
Dental Research.
Parent Case Text
This application is a continuation-in-part of the copending
application Ser. No. 539,740, filed Oct. 6, 1983, now U.S. Pat. No.
4,518,430, which in turn is a continuation-in-part of the
application, Ser. No. 373,157, filed on Apr. 29, 1982, now
abandonded.
Claims
We hereby claim as our invention:
1. A .[.dental restorative.]. slurry .[.comprising.].
.Iadd.consisting essentially of .Iaddend.an aqueous mixture of
Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O and at least one other calcium
phosphate selected from the group consisting of
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O.[.,.]. .Iadd.and .Iaddend.CaHPO.sub.4,
.[.Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O, .alpha.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2, .beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2, and modified
Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2,.]. both calcium phosphates being present
in the slurry in excess such that hydroxyapatite is substantially
continuously precipitated from the slurry .Iadd.at an ambient
temperature.Iaddend..
2. The slurry of claim 1 wherein the other calcium phosphate is
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O.
3. The slurry of claim 1 wherein the other calcium phosphate is
CaHPO.sub.4. .[.4. The slurry of claim 1 wherein the other calcium
phosphate is Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O..]. .[.5.
The slurry of claim 1 wherein the other calcium phosphate is
.beta.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2..]. 6. The slurry of claim 1 wherein at least one
of the calcium phosphates is in crystalline, cryptocrystalline or
amorphous form.
. The slurry of claim 1 further .[.comprising.]. .Iadd.including
.Iaddend.up to approximately 10% by weight of additional calcium or
phosphate containing compounds .Iadd.in an amount sufficient to
alter the
pH of the slurry.Iaddend.. 8. The slurry of claim 7 wherein the
additional calcium containing compounds .[.comprise.]. .Iadd.are
selected from the group consisting of .Iaddend.CaCl.sub.2 .[.or.].
.Iadd.and
.Iaddend.Ca(C.sub.2 H.sub.3 O.sub.2).sub.2. 9. The slurry of claim
7 wherein the additional phosphate containing compounds
.[.comprise.]. .Iadd.are selected from the group consisting of
.Iaddend.NaH.sub.2
PO.sub.4 .[.or.]. .Iadd.and .Iaddend.(NH.sub.4)H.sub.2 PO.sub.4.
10. The slurry of claim 1 further .[.comprising.]. .Iadd.including
.Iaddend.fluoride containing compounds such that the fluoride
content of the slurry is up to approximately 3.8% by weight
.Iadd.in an amount sufficient to increase the rate of precipitation
of hydroxyapatite from
the slurry.Iaddend.. 11. The slurry of claim 10 wherein the
fluoride containing compounds .[.comprise.]. .Iadd.are selected
from the group consisting of .Iaddend.CaF.sub.2, SnF.sub.2, NaF,
Na.sub.2 SiF.sub.6
.[.or.]. .Iadd.and .Iaddend.NaPO.sub.3 F. 12. The slurry of claim 1
further .[.comprising.]. .Iadd.including .Iaddend.a gelling agent
.Iadd.in
an amount sufficient to form an aqueous gel.Iaddend.. 13. A
.[.dental restorative.]. paste .[.comprising.]. .Iadd.consisting
essentially of .Iaddend.a nonaqueous mixture of a nontoxic organic
solvent, Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O and at least one other calcium
phosphate selected from the group consisting of
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O.[.,.]. .Iadd.and .Iaddend.CaHPO.sub.4,
.[.Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O, .alpha.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2, .beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 and modified
Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2, the paste being capable of hardening.].
.Iadd.which nonaqueous mixture hardens .Iaddend.into a cement upon
contact with an aqueous medium .Iadd.at an ambient
temperature.Iaddend.. 14. The paste of claim 13 wherein the other
calcium
phosphate is CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O. 15. The paste of claim 13
wherein the other calcium phosphate is CaHPO.sub.4. .[.16. The
paste of claim 13 wherein the other calcium phosphate is Ca.sub.8
H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O..]. .[.17. The paste of claim
13 wherein the
other calcium phosphate is .beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2..].
18. The paste of claim 13 wherein at least one of the calcium
phosphates is in
crystalline, cryptocrystalline or amorphous form. 19. The paste of
claim 13 further .[.comprising.]. .Iadd.including .Iaddend.up to
approximately 10% by weight of additional calcium or phosphate
containing compounds
.Iadd.in an amount sufficient to alter the pH of the
paste.Iaddend.. 20. The paste of claim 19 wherein the additional
calcium containing compounds .[.comprise.]. .Iadd.are selected from
the group consisting of .Iaddend.CaCl.sub.2 .[.or.]. .Iadd.and
.Iaddend.Ca(C.sub.2 H.sub.3
O.sub.2).sub.2. 21. The paste of claim 19 wherein the additional
phosphate containing compounds .[.comprise.]. .Iadd.are selected
from the group consisting of .Iaddend.NaH.sub.2 PO.sub.4 .[.or.].
.Iadd.and
.Iaddend.(NH.sub.4)H.sub.2 PO.sub.4. 22. The paste of claim 13
further .[.comprising.]. .Iadd.including .Iaddend.fluoride
containing compounds such that the fluoride content of the
.[.slurry.]. .Iadd.paste .Iaddend.is up to approximately 3.8% by
weight .Iadd.in an amount sufficient to increase the rate of
precipitation of hydroxyapatite from the
paste.Iaddend.. 23. The paste of claim 22 wherein the fluoride
containing compounds .[.comprise.]. .Iadd.are selected from the
group consisting of .Iaddend.CaF.sub.2, SnF.sub.2, NaF, Na.sub.2
SiF.sub.6 .[.or.]. .Iadd.and
.Iaddend.NaPO.sub.3 F. 24. The paste of claim 13 further
.[.comprising.]. .Iadd.including .Iaddend.a seed crystal compound
selected from the group consisting of hydroxyapatite and
fluorapatite .Iadd.in an amount
sufficient to reduce the setting time of the cement.Iaddend.. 25.
The paste of claim 13 wherein the aqueous medium is humid air or a
dilute
aqueous solvent. 26. A .[.dental restorative.]. powder
.[.comprising.]. .Iadd.consisting essentially of .Iaddend.a mixture
of Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O and at least one other calcium
phosphate selected from the group consisting of
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O.[.,.]. .Iadd.and .Iaddend.CaHPO.sub.4,
.[.Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O, .alpha.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2, .beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2, and modified
Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2,.]. the powder .[.being capable of.].
forming .[.a.]. slurry .Iadd.of claim 1 .Iaddend.upon contact with
an appropriate aqueous solvent.[., the slurry being capable of
substantially continuously precipitating hydroxyapatite.]. .Iadd.at
an ambient
temperature.Iaddend.. 27. The powder of claim 26 wherein the
solvent is
water or saliva. 28. A .[.dental restorative.]. powder
.[.comprising.]. .Iadd.consisting essentially of .Iaddend.a mixture
of Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O and at least one other calcium
phosphate selected from the group consisting of
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O.[.,.]. .Iadd.and .Iaddend.CaHPO.sub.4,
.[.Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O, .alpha.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2, .beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2, and modified
Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2,.]. the powder .[.being capable of
forming a hardenable.]. .Iadd.hardening into a .Iaddend.cement upon
contact with an appropriate aqueous solvent .Iadd.at an ambient
temperature.Iaddend.. 29. The powder of claim 28 wherein the
solvent is
water or saliva. .Iadd.30. The slurry of claim 1 additionally
including up to approximately 5% by weight of a high molecular
weight crystal growth inhibitor selected from the group consisting
of proteoglycans, glycoproteins, polylysine and protamine in an
amount sufficient to inhibit
the growth of hydroxyapatite crystals. .Iaddend. .Iadd.31. The
slurry of claim 1 wherein the slurry is slightly basic. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.32. The slurry of claim 1 wherein the slurry is slightly
acidic. .Iaddend. .Iadd.33. The slurry of claim 1 wherein the
slurry is incorporated into a chewing gum. .Iaddend. .Iadd.34. The
slurry of claim 1 where in the slurry
is incorporated into a toothpaste. .Iaddend. .Iadd.35. The paste of
claim 24 wherein the seed crystal compound is hydroxyapatite, the
hydroxyapatite being present in an amount up to 43% by weight and
in an amount sufficient to reduce the setting time of the cement.
.Iaddend. .Iadd.36. The paste of claim 13 additionally including up
to approximately 5% by weight of a high molecular weight crystal
growth inhibitor selected from the group consisting of
proteoglycans, glycoproteins, polylysine and protamine in an amount
sufficient to inhibit the growth of hydroxyapatite crystals.
.Iaddend. .Iadd.37. The paste of claim 13 additionally including
.beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 in an amount sufficient to
achieve setting expansion of the cement. .Iaddend. .Iadd.38. The
paste of claim 13 additionally including up to 1% by weight of a
crystal habit modifier selected from the group consisting of
Mg.sup.2+, Sr.sup.2+, citrate, phosphonates, carbonate,
polyphosphates, sucrose phosphate, and phosphocitrate in an amount
sufficient to achieve setting expansion of the
cement. .Iaddend. .Iadd.39. The paste of claim 13 additionally
including Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 SiO.sub.4 or silicocarnotite in
an amount sufficient to improve the setting properties of the
cement. .Iaddend. .Iadd.40. The paste of claim 13 wherein the
nontoxic organic solvent is selected from the group consisting of
glycerin, ethanol and glycol. .Iaddend. .Iadd.41. The paste of
claim 13 additionally including granular sugar, the sugar being
present in an amount up to 20% by weight and in an amount
sufficient to form a porous cement upon removal of the sugar by
application of hot water to the cement. .Iaddend. .Iadd.42. The
powder of claim 28 wherein the other calcium phosphate is
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O. .Iaddend. .Iadd.43. The powder of claim 28
wherein the other calcium phosphate is CaHPO.sub.4. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.44. The powder of claim 28 wherein at least one of the
calcium phosphates is in crystalline, cryptocrystalline or
amorphous form. .Iaddend. .Iadd.45. The powder of claim 28 further
including up to approximately 10% by weight of additional calcium
or phosphate containing compounds in an amount sufficient to alter
the pH of the accent. .Iaddend. .Iadd.46. The powder of claim 45
wherein the additional calcium containing compounds are selected
from the group consisting of CaCl.sub.2 and Ca(C.sub.2 H.sub.3
O.sub.2).sub.2. .Iaddend. .Iadd.47. The powder of claim 45 wherein
the additional phosphate containing compounds are selected from the
group consisting of NaH.sub.2 PO.sub.4 and (NH.sub.4)H.sub.2
PO.sub.4. .Iaddend. .Iadd.48. The powder of claim 28 further
including fluoride containing compounds such that the fluoride
content is up to approximately 3.8% by weight in an amount
sufficient to increase the rate of precipitation of hydroxyapatite
from the cement. .Iaddend. .Iadd.49. The powder of claim 48 wherein
the fluoride containing compounds are selected from the group
consisting of CaF.sub.2, SnF.sub.2, NaF, Na.sub.2 SiF.sub.6 and
NaPO.sub.3 F. .Iaddend. .Iadd.50. The powder of claim 28 further
including a seed crystal compound selected from the group
consisting of hydroxyapatite and fluorapatite in an amount
sufficient to reduce the setting time of the cement. .Iaddend.
.Iadd.51. The powder of claim 50 wherein the seed crystal compound
is hydroxyapatite, the hydroxyapatite being present in an amount up
to 43% by weight and in an amount sufficient to reduce the setting
time of the
cement. .Iaddend. .Iadd.52. The powder of claim 28 additionally
including up to approximately 5% by weight of a high molecular
weight crystal growth inhibitor selected from the group consisting
of proteoglycans, glycoproteins, polylysine and protamine in an
amount sufficient to inhibit the growth of hydroxyapatite crystals.
.Iaddend. .Iadd.53. The powder of claim 28 additionally including
.beta.-Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 in an amount sufficient to achieve
setting expansion of the cement. .Iaddend. .Iadd.54. The powder of
claim 13 additionally including up to 1% by weight of a crystal
habit modifier selected from the group consisting of Mg.sup.2+,
Sr.sup.2+, citrate, phosphonates, carbonate, polyphosphates,
sucrose phosphate, and phosphocitrate in an amount sufficient to
achieve setting expansion of the cement. .Iaddend. .Iadd.55. The
powder of claim 28 additionally including Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.2
SiO.sub.4 or silicocarnotite in an amount sufficient to improve the
setting properties of the cement. .Iaddend. .Iadd.56. The powder of
claim 28 additionally including granular sugar, the sugar being
present in an amount up to 20% by weight and in an amount
sufficient to form a porous cement upon removal of the sugar by
application of hot water to the cement. .Iaddend.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to certain combinations of sparingly soluble
calcium phosphates that are unique in their application as
remineralizers of caries lesions in dental enamel and partially
demineralized dentin and cementum and in their application as
dental cements. When used as a remineralizer the present invention
not only prevents tooth decay, but can also restore the lesions
caused by dental caries. The dental cements of the present
invention have a variety of dental applications, but are most
useful where contact between the cement and living tissue is
required.
2. Description of the Prior Art
When an incipient lesion or cavity develops on the surface of a
tooth, the dentist traditionally fills the cavity that forms. This
procedure may prevent the decay from spreading further, but does
not restore the tooth to its original state. A considerable amount
of research, however, has recently been directed to the
remineralization of incipient dental lesions. The object of
remineralization is to deposit Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH, known
as hydroxyapatite, on the caries lesion such that the dental enamel
incorporates the hydroxyapatite into its structure at the point of
lesion. (Tooth and bone minerals are impure forms of
hydroxyapatite). Thus, remineralization prevents further tooth
decay and restores the tooth.
Remineralization of tooth enamel has been carried out
experimentally both in vivo and in vitro. These studies have
concentrated on the remineralizing properties of saliva and
synthetic solutions supersaturated with respect to hydroxyapatite.
Two recent articles that give a good overview of this research are
Briner et al, "Significance of Enamel Remineralization", J. Dent.
Res. 53:239-243 (1974); and "Silverstone, "Remineralization
Phenomena", Caries Res. 11 (Supp. 1): 59-84 (1977). Additional
experimental work in the areas of remineralization of calcium
phosphate biomaterials may be found in Gelhard et al, "Rehardening
of Artificial Enamel Lesions in vivo", Caries Res. 13: 80-83
(1979); Hiatt et al, "Root Preparation I. Obduration of Dentinal
Tubules in Treatment of Root Hypersensitivity", J. Periodontal. 43:
373-380 (1972); LeGeros et al, "Apatitic Calcium Phosphates:
Possible Dental Restorative Materials", IADR Abstract No. 1482
(1982); Pickel et al, "The Effect of a Chewing Gum Containing
Dicalcium Phosphate on Salivary Calcium and Phosphate", Ala. J.
Med. Sci. 2: 286- 287 (1965); Zimmerman et al, "The Effect of
Remineralization Fluids on Carious Lesions in vitro", IADR Abstract
No. 282 (1979); and U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,679,360 (Rubin) and 4,097,935
(Jarcho).
Generally, the supersaturated solutions or slurries used for
remineralization experiments have been prepared from a single form
of calcium phosphate. When a caries lesion is flooded with one of
these supersaturated solutions, the calcium and phosphate ions in
the form of precipitated hydroxyapatite remineralize the lesion.
However, these solutions are impractical for use on patients for
several reasons. First, the amount of calcium and phosphate ions
available for remineralization in these supersaturated solutions is
too low. It takes approximately 10,000 unit volumes of the usual
supersaturated solution to produce one unit volume of mineral.
Thus, remineralization by this method requires both an excessive
volume of fluid and an excessive number of applications. The
supersaturated solutions are inherently limited in this respect
because they cannot maintain their supersaturated state. When the
hydroxyapatite precipitates out to the point where the solution is
no longer supersaturated, new supersaturated solution must be
introduced or the remineralization process stops.
An example of another kind of problem is described in Levine,
"Remineralization of Natural Carious Lesions of Enamel in vitro",
Brit. Dent. J., 137: 132-134 (1974), where a phosphate buffer
solution saturated with respect to CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O
(dicalcium phosphate dihydrate or brushite) and containing some
fluoride was applied to dental enamel. To effect complete
mineralization, exposure to the solution for three minutes every
hour for 24 hours was necessary. Though the article suggested that
this exposure could be achieved by use of two minute mouth rinses
twice daily over the course of a year, this was admitted by the
author to be an impractical procedure.
Another problem with single calcium phosphate slurries is that as
the hydroxyapatite precipitates out of solution, the pH of the
solution changes. Unless the old solution is removed from contact
with the tooth material, the solution may become too acidic or
alkaline and damage the dental tissue.
Another problem with known remineralization techniques is that the
remineralization may stop before the lesion is completely
remineralized due to build up of the remineralized tooth material
in or on the outer layer of the tooth's surface. This build up
occurs when the rate of remineralization is too fast and prevents
the diffusion of the mineral into the deeper regions of the lesion,
thus thwarting the full remineralization of the tooth.
There is a need for a method of remineralizing dental enamel that
does not require excessive amounts of solution and inordinately
long or frequent exposure times. Furthermore there is a need for a
remineralization solution or slurry that can maintain a relatively
constant pH and remain in a supersaturated state so that
hydroxyapatite may be precipitated for a substantial period of
time.
In the area of dental cements, the prior art shows an array of
compounds. Some cements, however, irritate the pulp and are
unsuitable for applications where the cement must come in contact
with exposed pulp. Guide to Dental Materials and Devices, 7th Ed.
(ADA 1974) p. 49. One solution to this problem is a cement made of
materials similar in composition to tooth and bone mineral, since
this would not irritate the living tissue.
The use of .beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 was suggested for pulp
capping in Driskell et al, "Development of Ceramic and Ceramic
Composite Devices for Maxillofacial Application", J. Biomed. Mat.
Res. 6: 345-361 (1972); and the use of Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O
was suggested by the inventors in IADR Abstract. No. 120, J. Dent.
Res. 54: 74 (1975) as a possible pulp capping agent. As described
in the latter, Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O hydrolyzes to
hydroxyapatite. Therefore, use of a calcium phosphate dental cement
should provide a non-irritating cement capable of setting to a hard
consistency and, when desired, remineralizing the dental tissue it
contacts. Such a cement would be of great benefit, for example, as
a root canal or root surface cement.
Single calcium phosphate cements are incapable of setting to a hard
consistency, however, and would suffer from the same drawbacks
described above for single calcium phosphate remineralizers. They
cannot maintain a relatively constant pH and do not have sufficient
remineralization capacity. Through U.S. Pat. No. 3,913,229
(Driskell et al) discloses putty-like pastes containing
.alpha.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2, .beta.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2, CaHPO.sub.4 and mixtures thereof as pulp capping,
root canal, and tooth replanting materials, it is believed that
none of these pastes harden into cements. Furthermore, no
remineralization properties are disclosed and it is believed that
none of these pastes are capable of any substantial
remineralization. Thus, there is a need for a dental cement that is
non-irritating, yet has good remineralizing capacity coupled with a
stable pH.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
The potential for application of dental remineralization is vast.
Approximately 5.times.10.sup.8 cavities are filled each year. If
these half billion caries lesions were remineralized rather than
being filled as cavities, the general dental health would be
increased substantially, since remineralization results in a whole
tooth. The present invention seeks to provide remineralization
compositions and methods that can be practically applied under a
dentist's care and thereby replace the need for filling of
cavities.
Briefly, the present invention relates to compositions for
remineralizing caries lesions. The invention concerns a combination
of Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O (tetracalcium phosphate) and at
least one other sparingly soluble calcium phosphate solid in
equilibrium or quasi equilibrium with a dilute aqueous solution
such that both calcium phosphates are present in excess and form a
slurry. The other calcium phosphates that may be used are
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O (dicalcium phosphate dihydrate or brushite),
CaHPO.sub.4 (monetite), Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2
O (octacalcium phosphate), .alpha.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2,
.beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 (tricalcium phosphates), and
tricalcium phosphates modified by the addition of protons or up to
approximately 10% magnesium by weight (whitlockite). All
combinations of these calcium phosphates can precipitate
hydroxyapatite according to the present invention. To do so,
however, the two calcium phosphates must be in near equilibrium
with the same saturated solution; furthermore, the saturated
solution must be supersaturated with respect to hydroxyapatite. If
these conditions are met, the above combinations of calcium
phosphates will react to form hydroxyapatite. Since the two calcium
phosphates are present in excess, the solution will remain
supersaturated with respect to hydroxyapatite and will continue to
precipitate this basic constituent of tooth and bone.
The advantages of a combination of calcium phosphates according to
the present invention as compared with solutions or slurries of a
single calcium phosphate are many. Most importantly, the inventive
combination of calcium phosphates in a slurry will remain
supersaturated with respect to hydroxyapatite for a significant
period of time. For example, a combination of tetracalcium
phosphate and brushite can remain active as a remineralizer for as
long as a week. Thus, a single application of this inventive slurry
to a caries lesion would suffice for complete remineralization of
the afflicted area. This obviates the need for repeated and lengthy
exposures required by previously proposed remineralization
systems.
Another significant advantage of the present invention is that the
combination of sparingly soluble calcium phosphates stabilizes the
pH of the system near the point of equilibrium. This prevents wide
swings in pH that might injure the dental enamel or other tissue. A
stable pH also permits hydroxyapatite to continue precipitating,
since hydroxyapatite will not precipitate at a low pH. Furthermore,
the pH of the singular point may be altered by the addition of
calcium or phosphate containing compounds to the slurry. This
allows the dentist to select the most beneficial pH for
remineralization.
Another advantage of the present invention is that the rate of
mineralization may be adjusted to the needs of the particular
lesion. The addition of simple fluoride compounds will increase the
rate of mineralization. Conversely, high molecular weight crystal
growth inhibitors may be added to slow mineralization. These latter
compounds facilitate the remineralization of the subsurface of a
caries lesion by inhibiting the remineralization of the outside
surface of the tooth. This allows the hydroxyapatite ions to
diffuse into the lesion's subsurface and completely remineralize
the cavity.
Thus, the present invention provides compositions for the
remineralization of caries lesions that are practical for clinical
use due to their large remineralization capacities and stable pH's.
The rate and depth of remineralization may be selected by the
dentist, thereby giving substantial flexibility to the
remineralization process.
The present invention also concerns compounds useful as dental
cements. The same combinations of calcium phosphates described
above may be combined in a paste, rather than a slurry, and allowed
to harden. The resulting cements are similar in composition to
tooth and bone material and, therefore, are fully compatible with
dental tissue. Though the cements of the present invention may be
used in any application for which conventional dental cements are
suitable, the cements of the present invention are particularly
helpful where contact with living tissue is required. In addition,
these cements provide the unique combination of remineralizing
properties and hardening characteristics that would be especially
desirable for a root canal or root surface cement because they are
compatible with, protect and remineralize the sensitive surfaces of
exposed roots.
Further objects and features of the invention will become apparent
from the following description of the preferred embodiments and
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
FIG. 1 is a plot of the solubility isotherms of Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O; CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O; CaHPO.sub.4 ; Ca.sub.8
H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O; .beta.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 ; and Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH at 25.degree.
C. in the ternary system of Ca(OH).sub.2 ; H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 ; and
H.sub.2 O.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The sparingly soluble calcium phosphates that are relatively stable
at ambient temperatures and are, therefore, available for use in
the inventive remineralizing slurries and cements include
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O; CaHPO.sub.4 ; Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2
(PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O; .alpha.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 ;
.beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 ; tricalcium phosphates modified
by protons or up to approximately 10% magnesium by weight; and
Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O. Each of these calcium phosphates has a
characteristic solubility behavior that may be represented by a
plot of the total concentration of calcium ions at the point of
saturation verus the pH of the solution at a constant temperature.
(A plot of the total concentration of phosphate ions versus pH
would be equivalent for the purposes of the present invention
because the concentrations of phosphate and calcium ions in
solution are linked.) The resulting curve is called an
isotherm.
When the isotherms for various calcium phosphates are plotted on
the same axes, their solubility behavior relative to each other may
be determined. Specifically, a calcium phosphate whose isotherm
lies above the isotherm of another calcium phosphate at a given pH
is metastable with respect to the latter. The point where the
isotherms of two calcium phosphates intersect is known as a
singular point. In a solution that is saturated with respect to the
two calcium phosphates, both calcium phosphates will be in
equilibrium with the saturated solution at the singular point. This
means that neither calcium phosphate will precipitate out of
solution, but another calcium phosphate whose isotherm lies below
the singular point can precipitate. The present invention relates
to combinations of calcium phosphates that form signular point
solutions that precipitate hydroxyapatite.
FIG. 1 is a plot of the solubility isotherms for six calcium
phosphates in the ternary system comprising Ca(OH).sub.2, H.sub.3
PO.sub.4 and H.sub.2 O at 25.degree. C. The y-axis of FIG. 1
represents the total concentration of calcium ions in solution in
moles per liter, while the x-axis represents pH. The isotherms for
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O, CaHPO.sub.4, .beta.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 and Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH are based,
respectively, on the following articles: Gregory et al, "Solubility
of CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O in the System Ca(OH).sub.2 --H.sub.3
PO.sub.4 --H.sub.2 O at 5.degree., 15.degree., 25.degree. and
37.5.degree. C.", J. Res. Nat. Bur. Stand. 74A: 461-475 (1970);
McDowell et al, "Solubility Study of Calcium Hydrogen Phosphate.
Ion Pair Formation", Inorg. Chem. 10: 1638-1643 (1971); Gregory et
al., "Solubility of .beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 in the System
Ca(OH).sub.2 --H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 --H.sub.2 O at 5.degree.,
15.degree., 25.degree. and 37.degree. C.", J. Res. Nat. Bur. Stand.
78A; 667-674 (1974); and McDowell et al, "Solubility of Ca.sub.5
(PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH in the System Ca(OH).sub.2 --H.sub.3 PO.sub.4
--H.sub.2 O at 5.degree., 15.degree., 25.degree. and 37.5.degree.
C.", J. Res. Nat. Bur. Stand. 81A: 273-281 (1977). The isotherm for
Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O is based on the
solubility product disclosed on Moreno et al, "Stability of
Dicalcium Phosphate Dihydrate in Aqueous Solutions and Solubility
of Octacalcium Phosphate", Soil Sci. Soc. Am. Proc. 21: 99-102
(1960), while the isotherm of Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O is based
on the approximate value of the solubility product calculated by
the inventors.
As can be seen from FIG. 1, not all combinations of calcium
phosphates have singular points. For example, the isotherms of
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O and CaHPO.sub.4 never cross at ambient
temperature. Therefore, this pair of calcium phosphates cannot be
in equilibrium with the same saturated solution at their singular
point and do not fall within the scope of the present
invention.
Three additional considerations limit the choice of calcium
phosphates for the present invention. First, the inventive
combinations of calcium phosphates must contain Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O in order to possess the desired remineralization
properties. Second, the singular point of the two calcium
phosphates must lie above the isotherm for hydroxyapatite. This
insures that a solution that is saturated with respect to the two
calcium phosphates at their singular point will also be
supersaturated with respect to hydroxyapatite. Thus, hydroxyapatite
can precipitate out of the solution and be available for
remineralization. Third, the singular point for the pair of calcium
phosphates should preferably not lie too far above the isotherm for
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O, since the singular point of such a
combination might be too unstable for use as a remineralizer or
cement. Therefore, although .beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 and
Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O have intersecting
isotherms, their singular point lies far above the isotherm for
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O and is unsuitable.
The circles in FIG. 1 define singular point compositions for the
various pairs of solids in solution. As can be seen from FIG. 1,
the following combinations of calcium phosphates are definitely
available as remineralizers and cements according to the present
invention: CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O with Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4);
CaHPO.sub.4 with Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O; Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O with Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2
O; and Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O with .beta.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2. Additionally, there is potentially another
singular point composition containing .alpha.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 and Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O. Likewise, the
isotherms of the modified tricalcium phosphates may define
additional inventive compositions.
The reason that a singular point composition has such desirable
properties as a remineralizer and cement is that it resists changes
in the pH or composition of the solution by driving itself back to
the singular point whenever the composition or pH changes. For
example, if two calcium phosphates that possess a singulr point
were present in excess in a solution that was more acidic than the
pH of the singular point, the more basic phosphate would dissolve
and cause the more acidic phosphate to precipitate. This process
would continue until the pH and the composition were forced back to
the singular point, where the two calcium phosphates present in
excess would both be in equilibrium with the solution and neither
would precipitate out of solution. The reverse process would occur
if the composition started at a point more basic than the singular
point pH.
When only two salts are present in the solution, the composition of
the solution cannot rise above the isotherm of the more soluble
salt or fall below the isotherm of the less soluble salt.
Furthermore, the solution will only be in equilibrium at the
singular point. However, the precipitation of a third salt, such as
hydroxyapatite, may drive the composition in the direction of the
third salt's isotherm. The degree of deviation depends upon the
relative rates of dissolution and precipitation of the three
salts.
For the purposes of remineralization, it would be undesirable if
the solution's composition deviated too close to the isotherm of
hydroxyapatite since this would lower the rate of precipitation of
hydroxyapatite. However, since the two calcium phosphates are
present in excess, the relative rate of precipitation for
hydroxyapatite is likely to be small when compared to the
dissolution and precipitation rates of the other two calcium
phosphates, and the composition will remain in the vicinity of the
singular point. Thus, a slurry containing excessive amounts of two
calcium phosphates having a singular point can remain approximately
at the pH and composition of the singular point despite the
constant production and precipitation of hydroxyapatite. It is this
feature of the present invention that permits a remineralizing
slurry or paste to remain active as a remineralizer for a
substantial period of time without great shifts in pH or
composition.
The combinations of calcium phosphates listed above all react to
form hydroxyapatite. Since Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O is the most
basic calcium phosphate of the present invention, any of the
remaining calcium phosphates that are more acidic than
hydroxyapatite can react directly with tetracalcium phosphate to
form hydroxyapatite. For example,
and
Unexpectedly, it has been discovered by the inventors that Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O is a necessary ingredient for the inventive
compositions to be effective remineralizing agents.
The reaction approximated by 5Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2
(PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O=8Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH+6H.sub.3
PO.sub.4 +17H.sub.2 O, is of particular interest for
remineralization, because under many conditions the rate of
formation of octacalcium phosphate appears to be much greater than
the rate of formation of hydroxyapatite. Since octacalcium
phosphate can hydrolyze in situ to hydroxyapatite, the formation of
Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O followed by hydrolysis
to hydroxyapatite may be a particularly efficacious method for the
production of hydroxyapatite in remineralizing solutions. The only
known combinations of calcium phosphates that definitely can form
octacalcium phosphate as a precursor to hydroxyapatite are Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O with CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O and CaHPO.sub.4
since their singular points both lie above the isotherm for
Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2 (PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O.
The inventive combinations may also be used as densitizing agents
due to their remineralization properties. Since clogging of the
dental tubules reduces the pain sensitivity of the dental tissue,
the remineralization promoted by the inventive compositions also
tends to desensitize the remineralized tissue.
The pH range of the inventive system may be predetermined by
choosing a pair of calcium phosphates with an appropriate singular
point pH. For example, if a pH around 7.5 is desired, one could use
the combination of CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O and Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O. The pH of any slurry or paste may be further
altered by the addition of up to approximately 10% by weight of
simple calcium or phosphate containing compounds. These compounds
change the pH of the singular point by altering the Ca/P ratio of
the solution. Since the chemical potentials of Ca(OH).sub.2 and
H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 have been shown to be invariant in the presence of
additional components at a given singular point [see Brown,
"Solubilities of Phosphates and Other Sparingly Soluble Compounds",
from Griffith et al, Environmental Phosphorous Handbook (John Wiley
& Sons, New York 1973)], the ratio (Ca.sup.2+)/(H.sup.+).sup.2
is constant at a given singular point, where the parentheses denote
ion activities. Thus, the addition of an acidic compound, such as
HCl, CaCl.sub.2, or Ca(C.sub.2 H.sub.3 O.sub.2).sub.2, will
increase the ionic activity of Ca.sup.2+, increase the Ca/P ratio
of the singular point and cause the singular point to move to a
lower pH. Similar considerations hold for the addition of basic
compounds. Examples of suitable base and phosphate containing
compounds are NaH.sub.2 PO.sub.4 and (NH.sub.4)H.sub.2
PO.sub.4.
The rate of remineralization may also be adjusted. The addition of
simple or complex fluoride compounds such that the fluoride content
of the slurry or paste is up to approximately 3.8% by weight will
increase the rate of precipitation of hydroxyapatite and decrease
solubility, thereby providing a control on the body's ability to
resorb the material. Examples of possible fluoride additives are
CaF.sub.2, SnF.sub.2, NaF, Na.sub.2 SiF.sub.6, and Na.sub.2
PO.sub.3 F. Though rapid mineralization is beneficial under some
circumstances, it may cause the remineralization of the outside
surface of an incipient caries lesion and prevent the
remineralization of the subsurface region of the lesion. A
moderately slow remineralization rate would allow all parts of the
lesion to be healed. The particular calcium phosphates used will
affect the rate of remineralization. In addition, particle size is
a factor since as particle size increases, the rate of
mineralization decreases. Generally the particle size for
remineralization slurries should be greater than 5 um. Thus, to
remineralize a deep lesion, a slow remineralizing slurry could be
applied to the tooth by means of a bite block sponge, periodontal
pack, cement or rigid gel.
It is also possible to facilitate internal remineralization by
etching the surface of the tooth such that the remineralizing
slurry can contact more of the lesion's surface at once. Another
solution to the problem of incomplete internal remineralization is
the application of high molecular weight crystal growth poisons or
inhibitors onto the tooth surrface. Examples of such growth
inhibitors are proteoglycans, glycoproteins, polylysine, and
protamine. Concentrations of up to approximately 5% by weight may
be added to the remineralizing slurry. These inhibitors prevent the
growth of hydroxyapatite crystals at the surface of the tooth but
do not tend to diffuse into the interior of the tooth. Accordingly,
they inhibit the remineralization of the caries lesion's surface
and prevent the blockage of the channels necessary for the
diffusion of calcium and phosphate ions into the subsurface
lesion.
All of the combinations of calcium phosphates described above may
be used as dental cements. The two main differences between the
inventive remineralizers and the inventive cements are particle
size and solid-to-liquid ratio. For use as cements, the selected
calcium phosphates should be ground to a finer particle size,
preferably less than 5 .mu.m. Additionally, calcium phosphate
particles are combined with much less solution so that a paste is
formed rather than a slurry. The paste then hardens to a bone-like
consistency.
Porous cements that are especially useful as bone implants or
protheses may be prepared by combining the calcium phosphates with
a highly water soluble material, such as granular sugar, and
subjecting the mixture to pressure sufficient to form a compact
mass. The water necessary for the inventive reaction is usually
contained in the calcium phosphates themselves. However, a small
amount of water may be added to the mixture before pressure is
applied in order to facilitate the setting of the cement. The
resulting mass is then placed into hot water such that the highly
water soluble material is removed. A porous cement remains that is
readily permeated by organic bone tissue.
In order to improve the flow properties of the inventive dental
cement pastes, it is desirable to incorporate glycerin, ethanol,
glycol or some other nontoxic organic solvent into the paste. Since
the cement mixture ingredients are inert to glycerin, a nonaqueous
paste containing Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O and another calcium
phosphate in glycerin will not harden or set. Thus, such a water
free glycerin-based paste can be stably preserved in a
moisture-free sealed tube for several months. However, when the
glycerin paste is exposed to humid air or to water, setting occurs
quite rapidly. Additionally, the glycerin serves as a vehicle for
the inventive combinations and produces desirable flow properties
for the paste such that the paste may be injected or delivered
through a fine orifice or tubing. Thus glycerin aids such
operations as the delivery of the inventive pastes into root canals
using a one millimeter syringe fitted with an 18 gauge needle. The
glycerin eventually leaches out of the set or hardened cement.
The cements of the present invention may be used in place of any of
the cements known in the prior art as: (i) cavity bases and liners
to protect the pulp; (ii) materials for capping exposed pulps;
(iii) materials to replace or promote regeneration of bone mineral
lost due to periodontal disease; (iv) direct filling materials that
have physical properties similar to enamel and are adhesive to
enamel and dentin; (v) a cement to build up alveolar ridges in
edentulous patients; (vi) an endodontic filling material for root
canals; (vii) a material to cement retention pins; (viii) a
material for filling sockets after a tooth extraction; (ix) a
replacement of bone that has been removed surgically or lost due to
trauma; (x) a cement for implanting or replanting teeth; (xi) a
luting cement in densitry and orthopedic surgury; (xii) an
investment mold material; (xiii) a material which will promote bone
mineral growth in its vicinity; (xiv) a remineralizing polish for
use in place of pumice; and (xv) a root cement for remineralizing
and densitizing of exposed root surfaces. Since the inventive
cements are fully compatible with living tissue, they are
especially advantageous where contact with dental tissue is
necessary. in addition, the cements possess remineralization
capabilities. Thus, the discussion above with respect to the use of
the inventive compositions as remineralizers is fully applicable to
their use as cements.
The strength and hardness of the present cements can be controlled
by the particle size of the calcium phosphates, the presence of
hydroxyapatite or Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.3 F (fluorapatite) as
seed or matrix crystals, and by the use of crystal habit modifiers.
These last compounds promote the growth of more needle-like
apatitic crystals in the cement. It is believed that a particle
size of 1 .mu.m would result in a very strong cement.
The setting time of the present cements may be reduced by adding a
sizable amount of hydroxyapatite or fluorapatite seed crystals to
the paste as these compounds facilitate crystal formation. This may
also increase the hardness of the cement and minimize shrinkage or
expansion during set. The addition of Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.2
SiO.sub.4 or silicocarnotite may also improve the setting
properties of the cements. Of course, it may be desirable to have
some setting expansion when the paste is used in a cavity
preparation in order to promote adhesion to the cavity wall. Such
expansion may be achieved by the addition of .beta.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 or up to 1% by weight of crystal habit modifiers,
such as Mg.sup.2+, Sr.sup.2+, citrate, phosphates, carbonate,
polyphosphates, sucrose phosphate and phosphocitrate. These
modifiers adsorb onto the specific sites of the crystal surfaces
during growth, thereby affecting the morphology of the crystals.
Additionally, appropriate combinations of varying or "gap-graded"
particle sizes would promote setting expansion.
It has also been determined that when fluoride compounds are added
to the liquid or solid phase, the setting time may be reduced
further for the same seed crystal content.
EXAMPLE 1
Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O and another calcium phosphate having a
singular point with Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O at an appropriate
pH are selected. Their singular point should not lie too far above
the isotherm for CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O and must lie above the
isotherm for hydroxyapatite. The calcium phosphates selected may be
prepared by the methods described in McDowell et al, "Solubility
Study of Calcium Hydrogen Phosphate. Ion-Pair Formation", Inorg.
Chem. 10: 1638-1643 (1971); Gregory et al, "Solubility of
.beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 in the System Ca(OH).sub.2
--H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 --H.sub.2 O at 5.degree., 15.degree., 25.degree.
and 37.degree. C.", J. Res. Nat. Bur. Stand. 78A: 667-674 (1974);
Moreno et al, "Stability of Dicalcium Phosphate Dihydrate in
Aqueous Solutions and Solubility of Octacalcium Phosphate", Soil
Sci. Soc. Am. Proc. 21: 99-102 (1960); Brown et al,
"Crystallography of Tetracalcium Phosphate", J. Res. Nat. Bur.
Stands. 69A: 547-551 (1965); and Patel et al, "Solubility of
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O in the Quaternary System Ca(OH).sub.2
--H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 --NaCl--H.sub.2 O at 25.degree. C.", J. Rest.
Nat. Bur. Stands. 78A: 675-681 (1974). The calcium phosphates may
be in crystalline, cryptocrystalline, finely divided, or amorphous
form.
Each of the selected, solid calcium phosphates is then ground to
the desired particle size. Generally for remineralization slurries,
the particle size should be greater than 5 .mu.m, since this size
prolongs the remineralization potential of the slurry by slowing
the remineralization rate. Larger particle size both slows the
reaction rate and retards the setting or hardening of the
slurry.
The ground calcium phosphates are then mixed in excess in a dilute
aqueous solution that is either slightly acidic or slightly basic
to form a slurry. Alternatively, gelling agents such as
carboxylmethyl cellulose may be added to the slurry such that an
aqueous gel is formed. Examples of appropriate acidic solutions are
water and H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 or HCl, while examples of appropriate
basic solutions are water and Ca(OH).sub.2 or KOH. The slurry may
be applied to the affected area by means of a bite block sponge,
periodontal pack, cement, or rigid gel. Also the slurry may be
applied by burnishing, spatulation or packing and covering by
various mechanical means. Additionally, the slurry may be allowed
to harden and thereby act as its own cement for holding the
remineralizer against the afflicted area.
Alternatively, the above remineralizing combinations may be
incorporated into chewing gum formulations by blending the solid
and liquid phases with a chewing gum base in the manner practiced
in the industry. Similarly, the solid and liquid phases may be
combined with the common ingredients of toothpaste. In these cases
the particle size of the calcium phosphates should be such as to
avoid grittiness. Another alternative is to apply the above
remineralizing combinations as a dry powder. The remineralizing
properties of the powder are then activated by the addition of an
appropriate aqueous solvent, such as water or saliva.
In addition, four groups of compounds may be added to the liquid
phase of the remineralization slurry. Alternatively, these
compounds can be added to the dry powder remineralizing
combinations. First, fluoride compounds, such as CaF.sub.2,
SnF.sub.2, NaF, Na.sub.2 SiF.sub.6, or Na.sub.2 PO.sub.3 F, may be
added to increase the rate of mineralization. Second, calcium and
phosphate containing compounds, such as CaCl.sub.2, Ca(C.sub.2
H.sub.3 O.sub.2).sub.2, NaH.sub.2 PO.sub.4, or (NH.sub.4)H.sub.2
PO.sub.4, may be added to modify the Ca/P ratio and pH of the
solution's singular point. Third, high molecular weight crystal
growth inhibitors may be added to facilitate the complete
remineralization of the subsurface caries lesions. Fourth, a
gelling agent may be added.
EXAMPLE 2
Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O and CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O are ground
to an approximate mean particle size of 40 .mu.m. Two grams of an
equimolar mixture of the two solids is combined with 20 ml of a 5
mM H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 solution and mixed to form a slurry. The slurry
is then placed on a caries lesion by means of a bite block sponge.
This slurry will maintain a pH in the vicinity of 7.4 and
precipitate hydroxyapatite for almost one week.
EXAMPLE 3
To form a dental cement, Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O and at least
one other calcium phosphate selected from the group consisting of
CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O, CaHPO.sub.4, Ca.sub.8 H.sub.2
(PO.sub.4).sub.6.5H.sub.2 O, .alpha.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2,
.beta.--Ca.sub.3 (PO.sub.4).sub.2, and modified Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 are ground to a uniform particle size of less than
5 .mu.m so that the setting time will be reasonable. If some
setting expansion is required, "gap-graded" particle sizes may be
used. The calcium phosphates are then combined with the dilute
aqueous solutions of Example 1 to form a paste. This paste is then
applied by an appropriate means to the affected area. For example,
if the cement is to be used as an endodontic filling material, the
paste may be applied by injection or packed with a plugger.
Alternatively, the calcium phosphates are combined with a
nonaqueous medium such as glycerin, ethanol or glycol to form a
paste. These nonaqueous pastes will harden upon exposure to the
dilute aqueous solutions of Example 1 or humid air. Alternatively,
the combined calcium phosphates may be applied as a dry powder that
will form a hardenable paste upon contact with an appropriate
aqueous solvent such as water or saliva.
To modify the remineralization properties of the cement, the
additives described in Example 1 may be added to the liquid or
solid phase. In addition, crystal habit modifiers may be added to
induce more needle-like growth of apatitic crystals. The setting
time for a given cement may be reduced by adding hydroxyapatite or
fluorapatite seed crystals. The inclusion of fluoride compounds
will further reduce the setting time. Silicocarnotite may improve
the setting properties of the cement.
Setting expansion and shrinkage may be reduced by adding a sizeable
amount of hydroxyapatite to the paste. Conversely, some setting
expansion may be encouraged by the addition of .beta.--Ca.sub.3
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 or crystal habit modifiers.
EXAMPLE 4
Specimens 1-5 shown in Table I were prepared as follows. The two
calcium phosphates and hydroxyapatite seed were all ground to a
mean particle size of 5 .mu.m. One gram of a mixture containing
equimolar amounts of the two calcium phosphates and the appropriate
weight percent of Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH was mixed with 0.5
ml of the appropriate H.sub.2 PO.sub.4 solution. All of the
specimens were stirred into pastes, allowed to harden, and were
soaked in H.sub.2 O at 37.degree. C. for twenty-four hours. The
compressive strengths in pounds per square inch were then
determined as shown in Table I.
EXAMPLE 5
Specimens 6-9 shown in Table II were prepared by grinding Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O, CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O, and Ca.sub.5
(PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH to a mean particle size of 5 .mu.m. One gram of
a mixture containing equimolar amounts of Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2
O and CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O and the appropriate weight percent of
Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH was mixed with 0.5 ml of 20 mM H.sub.3
PO.sub.4 to form a paste. This paste was then allowed to harden.
The setting times as a function of apatite seed content are shown
in Table II.
EXAMPLE 6
To form a porous cement of increased strength, Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O and CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O are ground to a mean
particle size of 5 .mu.m. Two grams of a mixture containing
equimolar amounts of the two calcium phosphates and 0.5 gram of
granular sugar (or another highly water soluble material) are mixed
and placed in a mold. Usually addition of water to the mixture is
not needed but a small amount may be added in some instances to
facilitate the setting reaction. Up to 80,000 pounds per square
inch of pressure is applied to the cement mixture using a press for
two minutes. The specimen, which is made into a compact mass by the
process, is placed in boiling water to extract the water soluble
granules and to complete the setting process. The resulting porous
materials can be used as protheses which can be invaded more
readily by organic bone tissue.
It should be understood that the foregoing disclosure emphasizes
certain specific embodiments of the invention and that all
modifications or alternatives equivalent thereto are within the
spirit or scope of the invention.
TABLE 1
__________________________________________________________________________
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTHS OF EXPERIMENTAL CEMENTS Ca.sub.5
(PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH, Wt. % Compressive Strength Specimen Calcium
Phosphates Seed Content Solution (PSI).sup.1
__________________________________________________________________________
1 CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O + Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.42)O 0 5 mM H.sub.3
PO.sub.4 4390 .+-. 860(3) 2 CaHPO.sub.4.2H.sub.2 O + Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O 0 20 mM H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 4560 .+-. 520(3) 3
CaHPO.sub.4 + Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O 0 20 mM H.sub.3 PO.sub.4
4960 .+-. 650(3) 4 CaHPO.sub.4 + Ca.sub.4 (PO.sub.4).sub.2 O 2.7 20
mM H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 4280 .+-. 940(2) 5 CaHPO.sub.4 + Ca.sub.4
(PO.sub.4).sub.2 O 9.6 20 mM H.sub.3 PO.sub.4 4578 .+-. 1010(2)
__________________________________________________________________________
.sup.1 Compressive strengths are shown as mean value .+-. standard
deviation. The number of samples is shown in parenthesis
TABLE II ______________________________________ SETTING TIME AS A
FUNCTION OF HYDROXYAPATITIC SEED CONTENT FOR EXPERIMENTAL CEMENTS
Setting time.sup.1 Specimen Ca.sub.5 (PO.sub.4).sub.3 OH Content,
Wt. % Min. ______________________________________ 6 0 22 7 24 11 8
34 9 9 43 8 ______________________________________ .sup.1 The
setting times were measured according to American Dental
Association Specification No. 9
* * * * *