sodium hexametaphosphate

Sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) is a hexameric inorganic polyphosphate with the chemical formula (NaPO3)6. While traditionally utilized as a food additive (E452i), water softener, and in oral care products for its ability to sequester calcium and prevent dental calculus, it is currently being investigated as a therapeutic pulp capping material in restorative dentistry. In this clinical context, SHMP is applied to the exposed dental pulp of immature permanent teeth affected by deep caries or trauma. The drug's mechanism involves promoting biomineralization and the formation of a dentin bridge (reparative dentinogenesis), aiming to maintain pulp vitality and allow for continued root development (apexogenesis). It is being evaluated by researchers at Minia University as a potential alternative to Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA).

Brand names

CalgonCalgon SChemi-charlCaswell No. 772

Other names

SHMPsodium polyphosphateGraham's saltsodiumhexametaphosphatehexasodium metaphosphate