Endodontic sealant compositions and methods for sealing a root canal using sealant or other filling materials. The compositions include one or more resins that promote adhesion to hydrophilic dental tissues. Examples include alkyl methacrylates and derivatives thereof, such as alkylamino methacrylates and oxyphosphoro methacrylates. The compositions include a radio opacifying agent, so that they may be seen using X-rays, and one or more polymerization initiators to effect curing, at least one chemical initiator and, optionally, a photoinitiator, to yield a curable sealant composition. The compositions are introduced into the root canal using a narrow cannula coupled to a high pressure hydraulic delivery device. Additional pressure may be applied to the sealant compositions using a syringe-like plunger introduced within a cylindrical access hole drilled through the crown of the tooth. The chemical initiator causes the mixed composition to harden over time. Hardening of at least a portion of the composition can be accelerated by including a photoinitiator and irratiating the mixed composition with radiant energy (e.g., from a dental curing lamp).
RELATED APPLICATION
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/736,729, filed Dec. 14, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,500,004. For purposes of disclosure, the foregoing application is incorporated herein by reference.
