Importance

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Abstract

A polishing composition carrying abrasive particles having a carrier vehicle comprising an organic liquid vehicle, such as glycerine, a mixture of gelling agents comprising an edible gum and a seaweed extract, and water in a ratio which forms a relatively viscous semi-gel or sol. The preferred gelling agent mixture is gum tragacanth and agar which provides the carrier vehicle with physical properties improving its ability to cling to the rotary applicators and the work surface during use as a polishing agent. The preferred compositions include greater than about 85 percent by weight of glycerine and less than about 10 percent by weight of water and exhibit Newtonian or near Newtonian flow characteristics and resists apparent melting at temperatures generated during use. Also disclosed is a method of using such a composition in a multiple step sequence using a reduction in abrasive particle size in each polishing step to achieve a smooth, mirror-like finish, particularly useful with certain types of restorative tooth materials.

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First Claim