Dycal® Calcium Hydroxide Liner is a two-component, self-curing dental material used primarily as a protective liner and for pulp capping in restorative dentistry.
Key Features and Uses of Dycal:
- Composition: Dycal consists of two pastes: a base paste containing calcium hydroxide and zinc oxide, and a catalyst paste containing calcium tungstate and ethyl toluene sulfonamide. When mixed, these pastes react to form a rigid set material.
- Pulp Capping: Dycal is used in both direct and indirect pulp capping procedures.
- Direct Pulp Capping: This involves placing Dycal directly on a small, exposed area of the dental pulp to stimulate the formation of reparative dentin and protect the pulp from further irritation.
- Indirect Pulp Capping: This involves placing Dycal over a thin layer of remaining dentin covering the pulp to promote healing and prevent pulp exposure.
- Protective Liner: Dycal serves as a protective barrier beneath dental adhesives, varnishes, filling materials (such as amalgam or composite), cements, and other base materials. It helps to:
- Reduce sensitivity.
- Protect the pulp from chemical irritation from restorative materials.
- Promote dentin bridging.
- Rigid Setting: Dycal sets into a hard, rigid material, providing a stable base for subsequent restorative procedures.
- Self-Curing: The material hardens on its own after mixing the two pastes, without the need for light curing.
- Biocompatibility: Calcium hydroxide is known for its biocompatibility and its ability to stimulate the formation of reparative dentin.
How Dycal Works:
The calcium hydroxide in Dycal stimulates the pulp cells to produce new dentin (reparative dentin), effectively sealing off the pulp and protecting it from further damage. Its alkaline pH also has antibacterial properties.
Advantages of Using Dycal:
- Promotes pulp healing and dentin regeneration.
- Provides a protective barrier against chemical irritation.
- Relatively easy to use.
- Radiopaque, making it visible on radiographs.
Disadvantages of Using Dycal:
- Relatively low strength compared to other liners or base materials.
- Can dissolve over time in acidic environments.
- Not adhesive to tooth structure.
In summary, Dycal is a commonly used calcium hydroxide liner that plays an important role in protecting the dental pulp and promoting healing during restorative dental procedures.
