A viscous material intended to be applied to a prepared root canal to maintain its relative sterility between procedures and to facilitate its healing. It is intended to be placed within the root canal temporarily and sealed with a temporary filling material to prevent repopulation of the canal by bacteria. It is typically a zinc or calcium cement-based material that includes an antimicrobial agent (e.g., pharmaceutical or pH), and sometimes an anti-inflammatory agent, available in a tube or syringe. After application, this device cannot be reused.