RESUMO
PURPOSE: Calcium sulfate (CaS) is a simple, biocompatible material with a very long, safe clinical history in several different fields of medicine. CaS is a rapidly resorbing material that leaves behind a calcium phosphate lattice, which promotes bone regeneration and hemostasis. The aim of this study was to perform a clinical evaluation of a possible hemostatic effect of calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CaSO(4)), commonly known as plaster of Paris, in the surgical and orthodontic treatment of impacted teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-three patients with 66 impacted cuspids and premolars were enrolled in this study. The gap between teeth and bone was filled with several layers of CaS cement. Each layer was put in place and was compressed with a dry gauze. The outer layer was then hardened with a potassium sulfate solution. After hardening, the CaS excess was removed, and a bracket was applied to the surface of the tooth. RESULTS: In no case was a separation of the bracket by the surface of the tooth observed. CONCLUSIONS: These results seem to confirm the usefulness of the hemostatic effect of CaS in this procedure.