Oral care compositions and methods based on genus Kocuria

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to compositions and methods for using bacteria (e.g., bacteria from the genus Kocuria) to impart whitening and / or prevention and reduction of color stains to tooth enamel; and oral care compositions for use in such methods. The present disclosure also relates to methods of using the oral care compositions, screening methods, and methods of manufacture.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This art relates to compositions and methods for using bacteria (e.g., bacteria from the genus *Cocheria*) to impart whitening and / or stain prevention and reduction to tooth enamel; and oral care compositions for use in such methods. This art also relates to methods of using oral care compositions, screening methods, and manufacturing methods. Background Technology

[0002] Teeth consist of an inner dentin layer and an outer, hard enamel layer that protects the dentin. The enamel layer is naturally opaque white or slightly grayish-white. It can be stained or discolored. The enamel layer is composed of hydroxyapatite mineral crystals, which create a slightly porous surface. It is believed that the pores in the enamel layer allow staining agents and discoloring substances to penetrate and cause discoloration.

[0003] Many substances that people face or come into contact with daily can stain teeth. In particular, foods and fluids a person consumes, such as tea and coffee, tend to stain their teeth. These products or substances tend to accumulate on the enamel layer of teeth, forming a film on the teeth. These staining substances can then penetrate the enamel layer. This problem occurs gradually over many years, but can lead to significant discoloration of the enamel in a person's teeth.

[0004] Abrasives (e.g., silica-based agents) are commonly used in oral care compositions for stain removal. However, brushing with compositions containing such agents often results in enamel damage. This can lead to problems such as dentin hypersensitivity. Peroxide-based agents are also known to have teeth whitening effects. However, peroxide-containing compositions are generally unstable and lose their whitening efficacy during storage. Polyphosphate compounds (e.g., pyrophosphate, tripolyphosphate, and hexametaphosphate) are also known for stain removal. However, such polyphosphate compounds may interfere with enamel remineralization (i.e., the recombination of crystalline hydroxyapatite, the main component of enamel) due to their crystal growth-inhibiting properties.

[0005] From a physiological perspective, peroxides are generally considered safe and effective at whitening teeth. Such peroxides include hydrogen peroxide, urea peroxide, sodium perborate, and sodium percarbonate. When these peroxides come into proper contact with teeth, they typically oxidize stains, resulting in whiter teeth. However, due to stability and potential interactions with other components, it can be difficult to formulate peroxide-containing oral care compositions in which the peroxide is compatible with other ingredients in the formulation. For example, peroxide formulations sometimes require a low-water composition to maintain the long-term stability of the peroxide. However, the low-water nature of the composition can affect palatability and may lead to an unfavorable consumer experience.

[0006] Therefore, additional oral care formulations are needed due to potential problems with current oral care compositions designed for stain prevention and / or enamel whitening. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This disclosure considers the possibility that certain oral care compositions containing a variety of bacteria can impart whitening properties to teeth. Traditionally, whitening is achieved through chemical means to impart abrasive or bleaching properties. However, this disclosure demonstrates that the use of certain bacterial species can show significant improvements in preventing or reducing enamel discoloration. Interestingly, and without being bound by theory, it is considered that this characteristic may be species-dependent, and that bacteria of the same genus may not always exhibit the same whitening properties.

[0008] In one aspect, this disclosure provides an oral care composition comprising bacteria from the genus Kocuria, which, compared with a control formulation, has improved reduction or prevention of enamel whitening and / or enamel discoloration.

[0009] For example, this disclosure provides an oral care composition (Composition 1.0) comprising an effective amount of at least one bacterial species, such as a Gram-positive bacterial species, such as a bacterial species selected from the genus Kocuria (e.g., Kocuria rhizophilia), wherein the amount of the bacterial species is sufficient to effectively reduce enamel staining and / or enhance enamel whitening in the oral cavity. For example, in various aspects, the oral care composition of this disclosure includes:

[0010] 1.1 Composition 1.0, wherein the bacterial species is a Gram-positive bacterial species.

[0011] 1.2 Composition 1.0 or 1.1, wherein the Gram-positive bacterial species is derived from the genus Kokuria.

[0012] 1.3 Composition 1.0, 1.1, or 1.2, wherein the bacterial species is derived from the genus *Kocuria*, and wherein the bacterial species is selected from: *Kocuria aegyptia*, *Kocuria arsenatis*, *Kocuria assamensis*, *Kocuria atrinae*, *Kocuria carniphila*, *Kocuria dechangensis*, *Kocuria flava*, *Kocuria gwangalliensis*, *Kocuria halotolerans*, *Kocuria himachalensis*, *Kocuria indica*, *Kocuria koreensis*, *Kocuria marina*, and *Kocuria...* Kocuria oceani, Kocuria ocularis, Kocuria palustris, Kocuria pelophila, Kocuria polaris, Kocuria rhizophila, Kocuria rosea, Kocuria salina, Kocuria salsicia, Kocuria sediminis, Kocuria subflava, Kocuria turfanensis, Kocuria tytonicola, Kocuria uropygialis, Kocuria uropygioeca, Kocuria varians, and combinations thereof.

[0013] 1.4 Any of the foregoing compositions, wherein the bacterial species is Rhizoctonia solani.

[0014] 1.5 Any of the foregoing compositions, wherein the bacterial species (e.g., a bacterial species selected from the genus Coxella (e.g., Rhizotrophic Coxella)) is at least 0.1% by weight of the composition, for example, from 0.1% to 5%, for example, about 0.5%, 1% or 2%.

[0015] 1.6 Any of the foregoing compositions further comprises an anti-tartar agent.

[0016] 1.7 Any of the foregoing compositions further comprises an anti-tartar agent, said anti-tartar agent being a polyphosphate, such as pyrophosphate, tripolyphosphate or hexametaphosphate, for example in sodium salt form.

[0017] 1.8 Any of the foregoing compositions comprises at least one surfactant selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, and combinations thereof.

[0018] 1.9 Any of the foregoing compositions comprises anionic surfactants, such as anionic surfactants selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and mixtures thereof.

[0019] 1.10 Any of the foregoing compositions contains sodium lauryl sulfate in an amount of 0.5% to 3% by weight of the composition.

[0020] 1.11 Any of the foregoing compositions contains at least one moisturizer.

[0021] 1.12 Any of the foregoing compositions comprises at least one humectant selected from glycerin, sorbitol, and combinations thereof.

[0022] 1.13 Any of the foregoing compositions comprises at least one polymer.

[0023] 1.14 Any of the foregoing compositions comprises at least one polymer selected from the following: polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl methyl ether maleic acid copolymer, polysaccharide (e.g., cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, or polysaccharide gums such as xanthan gum or carrageenan) and combinations thereof.

[0024] 1.15 Any of the foregoing compositions comprises one or more abrasives, such as silica abrasives, calcium carbonate abrasives, or calcium phosphate abrasives.

[0025] 1.16 Any of the foregoing compositions comprises gelatinous strips or fragments.

[0026] 1.17 Any of the foregoing compositions comprises a flavoring agent, a fragrance agent, and / or a coloring agent.

[0027] 1.18 Any composition obtained or available by combining the ingredients described in any of the foregoing compositions.

[0028] 1.19 Any of the aforementioned oral care compositions, wherein the composition is selected from the following forms: mouthwash, toothpaste, tooth gel, tooth powder, non-abrasive gel, mousse, foam, oral spray, lozenge, oral tablet or dental appliance.

[0029] 1.20 Any of the foregoing compositions, wherein the composition is toothpaste or mouthwash.

[0030] 1.21 Any of the foregoing compositions, wherein the composition optionally further comprises one or more of the following: water, abrasive, surfactant, foaming agent, vitamin, polymer, enzyme, humectant, thickener, preservative, flavoring agent, colorant and / or combinations thereof.

[0031] 1.22 Any of the foregoing compositions, wherein the composition is a toothpaste further comprising water, abrasive, surfactant, humectant, thickener and flavoring agent.

[0032] 1.23 Any of the foregoing compositions, wherein the composition is a toothpaste obtained or available by mixing with a toothpaste base, for example, the toothpaste base being a toothpaste base comprising one or more of the following: water, abrasives, surfactants, foaming agents, vitamins, polymers, enzymes, humectants, thickeners, antimicrobial agents, preservatives, flavoring agents, coloring agents and / or combinations thereof.

[0033] 1.24 Any of the foregoing compositions, used to reduce staining and / or enhance enamel whitening.

[0034] For example, in one aspect, the present invention provides an oral care composition comprising an effective amount of at least one bacterial species, such as a Gram-positive bacterial species, such as a bacterial species selected from the genus Coxella (e.g., Rhizotrophic Coxella), such as composition 1.0 and below, for preventing or reducing enamel staining and / or enhancing enamel whitening.

[0035] In another aspect, this disclosure provides a method (method 1.0) for preventing or reducing enamel staining and / or enhancing enamel whitening, comprising contacting the oral cavity with the composition, including contacting the oral cavity of a subject in need with an effective amount of at least one bacterial species, such as a bacterial species selected from the genus Coccidea (e.g., Rhizotrophic Coccidea), such as any of the compositions 1.0 and below, for example by brushing, such as by brushing regularly over a sufficient period of time. For example, in various aspects, method 1.0 includes the following:

[0036] 1.1 Method 1.0, wherein the bacterial species is a Gram-positive bacterial species.

[0037] 1.2 Method 1.0 or 1.1, wherein the Gram-positive bacterial species is derived from the genus Coxella.

[0038] 1.3 Method 1.0, 1.1, or 1.2, wherein the bacterial species is derived from the genus *Cocheria*, and wherein the species is selected from: *Cocheria haleri*, *Cocheria arsenate*, *Cocheria assamica*, *Cocheria jiangyao*, *Cocheria fleshophile*, *Cocheria deschanii*, *Cocheria flavum*, *Cocheria guanganri*, *Cocheria salina*, *Cocheria simonii*, *Cocheria simonii*, *Cocheria simonii*, *Cocheria ininica*, *Cocheria koreanum*, *Cocheria natans*, *Cocheria serrata*, *Cocheria ophthalmus*, *Cocheria swamp*, *Cocheria sphaerophyte*, *Cocheria extremophile*, *Cocheria rhizotrophus*, *Cocheria rosea*, *Cocheria salina*, *Cocheria caesarea*, *Cocheria sedimentae*, *Cocheria microflagellate*, *Cocheria turpanensis*, *Cocheria barbadensis*, *Cocheria uropygidium*, *Cocheria urinae*, *Cocheria alternifolia*, and any combination of the foregoing species.

[0039] 1.4 Any of the foregoing methods, wherein the bacterial species is *Rhizoctonia solani*.

[0040] 1.5 In any of the foregoing methods, the amount of the bacterial species, such as bacterial species selected from the genus Coxella (e.g., Rhizotrophic Coxella), such as composition 1.0 and below, is, for example, at least 0.1% by weight of the composition, such as 0.1% to 5%, such as about 0.5%, 1%, 2% or 5%.

[0041] 1.6 Any of the foregoing methods further includes an anti-tartar agent.

[0042] 1.7 Any of the foregoing methods further comprises an anti-tartar agent, said anti-tartar agent being a polyphosphate, such as pyrophosphate, tripolyphosphate or hexametaphosphate, for example in sodium salt form.

[0043] 1.8 Any of the foregoing methods comprises at least one surfactant selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, and combinations thereof.

[0044] 1.9 Any of the foregoing methods comprises anionic surfactants, such as anionic surfactants selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and mixtures thereof.

[0045] 1.10 Any of the foregoing methods contains sodium lauryl sulfate in an amount of 0.5% to 3% by weight of the composition.

[0046] 1.11 Any of the foregoing methods comprises at least one moisturizer.

[0047] 1.12 Any of the foregoing methods comprises at least one humectant selected from glycerin, sorbitol, and combinations thereof.

[0048] 1.13 Any of the foregoing methods comprises at least one polymer.

[0049] 1.14 Any of the foregoing methods comprises at least one polymer selected from the following: polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl methyl ether maleic acid copolymer, polysaccharide (e.g., cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, or polysaccharide gums such as xanthan gum or carrageenan) and combinations thereof.

[0050] 1.15 Any of the foregoing methods comprises one or more abrasives, such as silica abrasives, calcium carbonate abrasives, or calcium phosphate abrasives.

[0051] 1.16 Any of the foregoing methods includes gelatinous strips or fragments.

[0052] 1.17 Any of the foregoing methods includes flavoring agents, fragrances and / or coloring agents.

[0053] 1.18 Any of the foregoing methods, wherein the composition is a mouthwash, toothpaste, tooth gel, tooth powder, non-abrasive gel, mousse, foam, oral spray, lozenge, oral tablet or dental appliance.

[0054] 1.19 Any of the foregoing methods, wherein the composition is toothpaste or mouthwash.

[0055] 1.20 Any of the foregoing methods, wherein the composition is a toothpaste that optionally further comprises one or more of the following: water, abrasive, surfactant, foaming agent, vitamin, polymer, enzyme, humectant, thickener, preservative, flavoring agent, colorant and / or combinations thereof.

[0056] 1.21 Any of the foregoing methods, wherein the composition is a toothpaste that further comprises water, abrasive, surfactant, humectant, thickener and flavoring agent.

[0057] 1.22 Any of the foregoing methods, wherein the composition is a toothpaste obtained or available by mixing with a toothpaste base, the toothpaste base being, for example, a toothpaste base comprising one or more of the following: water, abrasives, surfactants, foaming agents, vitamins, polymers, enzymes, humectants, thickeners, antimicrobial agents, preservatives, flavoring agents, coloring agents, and / or combinations thereof.

[0058] 1.23 Any of the foregoing methods used to reduce staining and / or enhance enamel whitening.

[0059] It also provides a method for preventing or alleviating or treating one or more of tooth decay, caries and / or gingival disease, gingivitis, periodontitis, peri-implantitis, peri-implant mucositis, necrotizing gingivitis, necrotizing periodontitis, systemic health disorders and caries in a subject with such need, said method comprising contacting the subject’s oral cavity with an oral care composition (e.g., any of composition 1 and below) containing an effective amount of at least one bacterial species, such as those selected from the genus Cochlea (e.g., Rhizoctonia solani).

[0060] In another aspect, this disclosure provides the use of bacterial species, such as those selected from the genus Cochlea (e.g., Rhizotrophic Cochlea), such as any of Composition 1.0 and below, in the manufacture of oral care compositions such as Composition 1.0 and below, for reducing staining and / or enhancing enamel whitening.

[0061] In another aspect, the method described herein includes contacting a tooth surface with a bacterial species selected from the genus *Cocheria* (e.g., *Rhizotrophoblastus*) and an orally acceptable carrier, as defined above. The method is applicable to the tooth surfaces of non-human mammals such as companion animals (e.g., dogs and cats), and is also applicable to humans. In one embodiment, the tooth surface is the surface of a natural tooth of a mammal (e.g., a human).

[0062] In another aspect, the tooth surface is essentially free of chemical stains, and this method effectively inhibits or prevents the formation and development of new chemical stains, such as those that may arise from oral use of tobacco products (including smoking) or from drinking tea or coffee after contact with any of the compositions 1.0 and below, or after treatment according to any of the methods 1.0 and below. In cases where the tooth surface already has a certain degree of chemical staining, any of the methods 1.0 and below effectively inhibits, prevents, or reduces the further development of existing stains.

[0063] Therefore, in one embodiment, any of methods 1.0 and below includes exposing the tooth surface to a chemical stain-inducing substance, such as tobacco products, tea, or coffee, after contacting the tooth surface with a bacterial species selected from the genus *Cochyl* (e.g., *Rhizoctonia solani*). In this embodiment, by pre-contacting the tooth surface with a bacterial species selected from the genus *Cochyl* (e.g., *Rhizoctonia solani*), chemical staining caused by such exposure is reduced, inhibited, or prevented. In some embodiments, the tooth surface is substantially free of chemical stains prior to exposure to the chemical stain-inducing substance as defined above.

[0064] In another aspect, it is desired that any of the bacterial species selected from the genus *Cocheria* (e.g., *Rhizoctonia solani*), such as composition 1.0 and below, remain in contact with the tooth surface for a period of time sufficient to provide effective prevention, inhibition, reduction, or removal of chemical staining. For example, in one aspect, prevention includes providing a coating that inhibits or reduces the amount of stains adhering to the tooth surface. Depending on various factors, including the nature of other substances optionally present in combination with the bacterial species selected from the genus *Cocheria* (e.g., *Rhizoctonia solani*), the precise steps taken to achieve contact (e.g., rinsing, brushing, placing a strip, smearing, or chewing), and the desired degree and / or duration of stain inhibition, a suitable minimum contact time can be from 10 seconds to 8 hours. When using a bacterial species selected from the genus *Cocheria* (e.g., *Rhizoctonia solani*) as a component of a mouthwash, the illustrative minimum rinsing time is from 10 seconds to 2 minutes. When a bacterial species selected from the genus *Cocheria* (e.g., *Rhizoctonia solani*) is used as a component of a dental cleaning agent, the illustrative minimum brushing time is 30 seconds to 5 minutes, or at least 1 minute, or at least 2 minutes. When any of the bacterial species selected from the genus *Cocheria* (e.g., *Rhizoctonia solani*) such as Composition 1.0 and below is used as a component of an oral strip, the strip is placed on the tooth surface and illustratively left on for 15 minutes to 8 hours (e.g., overnight). When any of the bacterial species selected from the genus *Cocheria* (e.g., *Rhizoctonia solani*) such as Composition 1.0 and below is used as a component of a liquid whitening agent composition, the composition is applied to the tooth surface and left in place, illustratively left on for 5 minutes to 8 hours (e.g., overnight). When any of the bacterial species selected from the genus *Cocheria* (e.g., *Rhizoctonia solani*) such as Composition 1.0 and below is used as a component of chewing gum, the illustrative minimum chewing time is 1 minute to 20 minutes.

[0065] Increasing the agitation in the mouth during rinsing, brushing, or chewing can improve the contact between bacterial species selected from the genus Coccidea (e.g., Rhizotrophic Coccidea), such as any of Composition 1.0 and below, and the tooth surface, and can enhance the degree of stain prevention, reduction, or removal. Therefore, in one embodiment where bacterial species selected from the genus Coccidea (e.g., Rhizotrophic Coccidea) are present as an ingredient in the dental cleaning agent (e.g., any of Composition 1.0 and below), vigorous brushing of the dental cleaning agent can be particularly effective.

[0066] In some embodiments, a bacterial species selected from the genus *Cocheria* (e.g., *Rhizotrophoblastus*) such as composition 1.0 and below are applied to the tooth surface via a dental tray. Therefore, dental trays comprising oral care compositions as defined herein are also provided. Dental trays can be formed using steps known in the field of oral care. Dental trays are generally formed to correspond to the structure of the tooth surface.

[0067] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for screening compounds that reduce staining and / or enhance enamel whitening, wherein the screening step comprises:

[0068] • Determine the ability of a first compound (e.g., a test compound) to reduce staining and / or enhance enamel whitening, for example by comparing at least one bacterial species, such as those selected from the genus Cochlea (e.g., Rhizophora cochlea), such as any of the following compositions, to reduce staining and / or whiten enamel.

[0069] • Optionally determine the ability of a second compound (e.g., a control compound) to reduce staining and / or whiten tooth enamel;

[0070] • Optionally, the profile of the first compound can be compared with the profile of the second compound;

[0071] • Test compounds are selected for further testing based on their ability to reduce staining and / or whiten tooth enamel in the oral cavity, for example, compared to control compounds.

[0072] For example, the control compound in the aforementioned screening method can be a Gram-positive bacterium, such as *Cocheria haleri*, *Cocheria arsenate*, *Cocheria assamica*, *Cocheria jiangyao*, *Cocheria fleshophile*, *Cocheria deschanii*, *Cocheria flavum*, *Cocheria guanganri*, *Cocheria salina*, *Cocheria simonii*, *Cocheria simonii*, *Cocheria hansik*, *Cocheria hainanensis*, *Cocheria natans*, *Cocheria natans*, *Cocheria ophthalmica*, *Cocheria swampica*, *Cocheria sphaerophyte*, *Cocheria extremophile*, *Cocheria rhizotrophus*, *Cocheria rosea*, *Cocheria salina*, *Cocheria caesarea*, *Cocheria sedimentae*, *Cocheria microflagellate*, *Cocheria turpanensis*, *Cocheria barbadensis*, *Cocheria uropygidium*, *Cocheria uropygidium*, and *Cocheria alternifolia*. This disclosure also provides for the use of compounds identified in such screening methods in any of the foregoing methods and uses. Detailed Implementation

[0073] Unless otherwise stated, the term "%" or "percentage" when used in conjunction with the ingredients of the toothpaste compositions of the present invention is intended to refer to a weight percentage relative to the total oral care composition.

[0074] As used herein, “cleaning” generally refers to the removal of contaminants, dirt, impurities, and / or foreign matter from a target surface. For example, in the case of oral surfaces, where the surface is tooth enamel, cleaning can remove at least some of the film or stains (e.g., plaque biofilm, diatomaceous membrane, or tartar).

[0075] As used herein, "oral care composition" means a composition whose intended use includes oral care, oral hygiene, and / or oral appearance, or whose intended method of use includes application to the oral cavity, and refers to a composition that is palatable and safe for topical application to the oral cavity and provides benefits to the teeth and / or oral cavity. Therefore, the term "oral care composition" specifically excludes compositions that are highly toxic, unpalatable, or otherwise unsuitable for application to the oral cavity. In some embodiments, the oral care composition is not intended to be swallowed but is retained in the oral cavity for a duration sufficient to affect the intended efficacy. The oral care compositions disclosed herein can be used in non-human mammals such as companion animals (e.g., dogs and cats) as well as for human use. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein are for human use. Oral care compositions include, for example, dental floss and mouthwash. In some embodiments, this disclosure provides mouthwash formulations.

[0076] As used in this article, "orally acceptable" means a material that is safe and palatable at relevant concentrations used in oral care preparations such as mouthwashes or dental flossers.

[0077] As used herein, “orally acceptable carrier” means any carrier that can be used to formulate the oral care compositions disclosed herein. An orally acceptable carrier is harmless to mammals at the amounts disclosed herein when retained in the oral cavity without swallowing for a duration sufficient to allow effective contact with the tooth surface as required herein. Generally, orally acceptable carriers are harmless even if unintentionally swallowed. Suitable orally acceptable carriers include, for example, one or more of the following: water, thickeners, buffers, humectants, surfactants, abrasives, sweeteners, flavorings, pigments, dyes, cariogenic agents, antibacterial agents, whitening agents, desensitizing agents, vitamins, preservatives, enzymes, and mixtures thereof.

[0078] In some aspects, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise water. The water used to prepare the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) should be deionized and free of organic impurities. Water may constitute the balance of the oral care composition. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0% to 90% by weight of water, for example 0.1% to 90% by weight of water, for example 1% to 80% by weight of water, for example 2% to 70% by weight of water, 5% to 60% by weight of water, for example 5% to 50% by weight of water, for example 20% to 60% by weight of water, for example 10% to 40% by weight of water. This amount of water includes added free water plus the amount introduced with other components of the oral care composition, such as sorbitol.

[0079] Thickeners provide a desired consistency and / or stabilize and / or enhance the performance of oral care compositions (e.g., provide desired active release properties upon use). In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.01% to 15% by weight of a thickener, 0.1% to 15% by weight of a thickener, such as 0.1% to 10% by weight of a thickener, such as 0.1% to 5% by weight of a thickener, such as 0.5% to 10% by weight of a thickener, such as 0.5% to 5% by weight of a thickener, such as 1% to 4% by weight of a thickener, such as 2% to 5% by weight of a thickener, such as 2% to 4% by weight of a thickener, such as 3% to 4% by weight of a thickener. Higher weight percentages may be used for chewing gum, tablets and mints, pouch products, non-abrasive gels, and subgingival gels. Thickeners that can be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) include, for example, carboxyvinyl polymers, carrageenan (also known as carrageenan), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), natural and synthetic clays (e.g., Veegum and laponite), water-soluble salts of cellulose ethers (e.g., sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and sodium carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose), natural gums (e.g., guilarin, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and astragalus gum), colloidal magnesium aluminum silicate, silica (e.g., finely dispersed silica), crosslinked poly(vinyl)pyrrolidone, carbon waxes, fatty acids and their salts (e.g., stearic acid and palmitic acid), fatty alcohols (e.g., stearyl alcohol), and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, a mixture of thickening silica and carrageenan is used as a thickener in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.). In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.01% to 15% by weight of thickening silica and carrageenan, 0.1% to 15% by weight of thickening silica and carrageenan, such as 0.1% to 10% by weight of thickening silica and carrageenan, such as 0.1% to 5% by weight of thickening silica and carrageenan, such as 0.5% to 10% by weight of thickening silica and carrageenan, such as 0.5% to 5% by weight of thickening silica and carrageenan, such as 1% to 4% by weight of thickening silica and carrageenan, such as 2% to 5% by weight of thickening silica and carrageenan, such as 2% to 4% by weight of thickening silica and carrageenan, such as 3% to 4% by weight of thickening silica and carrageenan.

[0080] The buffer adjusts the pH of the oral care composition to, for example, a range from about pH 4.0 to about pH 9.5. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.1% to 10% by weight of a buffer, 0.5% to 10% by weight of a buffer, such as 0.5% to 5% by weight of a buffer, such as 0.5% to 4% by weight of a buffer, such as 0.5% to 3% by weight of a buffer, such as 0.5% to 2% by weight of a buffer, such as 1% to 2% by weight of a buffer. Buffers that can be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) include, for example, sodium bicarbonate, sodium phosphate {e.g., sodium dihydrogen phosphate (NaH2PO4), disodium hydrogen phosphate (Na2HPO4), trisodium phosphate (Na3PO4)}, sodium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium acid pyrophosphate, citric acid, sodium citrate, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, sodium hydroxide is used as a buffer in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.). In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) contain 0.1% to 10% by weight of sodium hydroxide, such as 0.5% to 10% by weight of sodium hydroxide, such as 0.5% to 5% by weight of sodium hydroxide, such as 0.5% to 4% by weight of sodium hydroxide, such as 0.5% to 3% by weight of sodium hydroxide, such as 0.5% to 2% by weight of sodium hydroxide, such as 1% to 2% by weight of sodium hydroxide.

[0081] Humectants prevent oral care compositions from hardening upon exposure to air. Certain humectants may also impart a desired sweetness or flavor to the oral care composition. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) contain, on a pure humectant basis, 0% to 70% by weight of a humectant, such as 10% to 70% by weight, 10% to 65% by weight, 10% to 60% by weight, 10% to 50% by weight, 20% to 50% by weight, or 20% to 40% by weight. Humectants that may be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) include, for example, glycerin, sorbitol, xylitol, butylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, trimethylglycine, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, a mixture of glycerin, sorbitol, and propylene glycol is used as a humectant in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.). In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) contain, on a pure humectant basis, 0% to 70% by weight of glycerin, sorbitol, and propylene glycol, for example, 10% to 70% by weight of glycerin, sorbitol, and propylene glycol, for example, 10% to 65% by weight of glycerin, sorbitol, and propylene glycol, for example, 10% to 60% by weight of glycerin, sorbitol, and propylene glycol, for example, 10% to 50% by weight of glycerin, sorbitol, and propylene glycol, for example, 20% to 50% by weight of glycerin, sorbitol, and propylene glycol, for example, 20% to 40% by weight of glycerin, sorbitol, and propylene glycol.

[0082] In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise, for example, a surfactant selected from anionic surfactants, cationic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, nonionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the surfactant is fairly stable over a wide pH range. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.01 wt% to 10 wt% of a surfactant, for example 0.05 wt% to 5 wt% of a surfactant, for example 0.1 wt% to 10 wt% of a surfactant, for example 0.1 wt% to 5 wt% of a surfactant, for example 0.1 wt% to 2 wt% of a surfactant, for example 0.5 wt% to 2 wt% of a surfactant. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.01% to 10% by weight of anionic surfactant, such as 0.05% to 5% by weight of anionic surfactant, such as 0.1% to 10% by weight of anionic surfactant, such as 0.1% to 5% by weight of anionic surfactant, such as 0.1% to 2% by weight of anionic surfactant, such as 0.5% to 2% by weight of anionic surfactant, such as 1.5% by weight of anionic surfactant.

[0083] Anionic surfactants that can be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) include, for example:

[0084] i. Water-soluble salts of monoglycerides of higher fatty acids, such as sodium salts of monosulfated monoglycerides of hydrogenated coconut fatty acids, such as sodium N-methyl-N-cocoyl taurate and sodium cocoyl monoglyceride sulfate.

[0085] ii. Higher alkyl sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate,

[0086] iii. Higher alkyl-ether sulfates, such as those having the formula CH3(CH2). m CH2(OCH2CH2) n OSO3X, where m is 6 to 16, for example 10, n is 1 to 6, for example 2, 3 or 4, and X is Na or K, for example sodium lauryl ether-2-sulfate, CH3(CH2). 10 CH2(OCH2CH2)2OSO3Na,

[0087] iv. Higher alkyl aryl sulfonates, such as sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (sodium laurylbenzenesulfonate), and

[0088] v. Higher alkyl sulfonates, such as sodium lauryl sulfonate (sodium dodecyl sulfonate), higher fatty acid esters of 1,2-dihydroxypropane sulfonate, sulfolarate (N-2-ethyllaurate potassium sulfoacetamide), and sodium lauryl sarcosinate.

[0089] As used in this article, "higher alkyl" refers to C6-30 alkyl.

[0090] In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise anionic surfactants. In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant is a water-soluble salt of an alkyl sulfate having 10 to 18 carbon atoms in an alkyl group and a water-soluble salt of a sulfonated monoglyceride of a fatty acid having 10 to 18 carbon atoms. Sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, and sodium coconut monoglyceride sulfonate are examples of anionic surfactants of this type. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise sodium lauryl sulfate. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) contain 0.01% to 10% by weight of sodium lauryl sulfate, such as 0.05% to 5% by weight of sodium lauryl sulfate, such as 0.1% to 10% by weight of sodium lauryl sulfate, such as 0.1% to 5% by weight of sodium lauryl sulfate, such as 0.1% to 2% by weight of sodium lauryl sulfate, such as 0.5% to 2% by weight of sodium lauryl sulfate, such as 1.5% by weight of sodium lauryl sulfate.

[0091] Abrasives remove debris and surface stains. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 5% to 70% by weight of abrasives, such as 5% to 60% by weight of abrasives, such as 5% to 50% by weight of abrasives, such as 5% to 40% by weight of abrasives, such as 5% to 30% by weight of abrasives, such as 10% to 30% by weight of abrasives, such as 10% to 20% by weight of abrasives.

[0092] Abrasives that can be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) include, for example, calcium phosphate abrasives, such as tricalcium phosphate (Ca3(PO4)2) and hydroxyapatite (Ca2PO4). 10 Calcium carbonate ((PO4)6(OH)2), dicalcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate (CaHPO4·2H2O, sometimes referred to as DiCal in this article), calcium pyrophosphate, and mixtures thereof. Calcium carbonate (e.g., precipitated calcium carbonate) can also be used as an abrasive.

[0093] Other abrasives that may be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) include: for example, silica abrasives, such as precipitated silica with an average particle size up to about 20 micrometers, such as Zeodent 115® sold by JMHuber; and sodium metaphosphate, potassium metaphosphate, aluminum silicate, calcined alumina, bentonite, or other siliceous materials; or mixtures thereof. The average particle size of the silica abrasives used herein, as well as other abrasives, can range from about 0.1 micrometers to about 30 micrometers, for example from about 5 micrometers to about 15 micrometers. Silica abrasives may be derived from precipitated silica or silica gel, such as silica dry gel. Specific silica dry gels are sold by WR Grace & Co. Davison Chemical Division under the trademark name Syloid®. Precipitated silica materials include those sold by JMHuber Corp. under the trademark name Zeodent®, including silica with the names Zeodent 115 and 119.

[0094] In some embodiments, the abrasives that may be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) include silica gel and precipitated amorphous silica with an oil absorption value of less than about 100 cc / 100 g silica and in the range of about 45 cc / 100 g silica to about 70 cc / 100 g silica. The oil absorption value is measured using the ASTA Rub-Out Method D281. In some embodiments, the silica comprises colloidal particles with an average particle size of about 3 micrometers to about 12 micrometers and about 5 micrometers to about 10 micrometers.

[0095] In some implementations, the abrasive comprises mostly very small particles, such as small particle silica (SPS) with a d50 of less than about 5 micrometers, for example, small particle silica (SPS) with a d50 of about 3 to about 4 micrometers, such as SorbosilAC AC43® (Ineos). Such small particles can be used in formulations designed to reduce hypersensitivity. The small particle component can be combined with a second, larger particle abrasive.

[0096] Low-oil-absorbing silica abrasives that can be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) are sold by Davison Chemical Division, WR Grace & Co., Baltimore, MD 21203, under the trademark Sylodent WXA®. Sylodent 650 XWA®, a silica hydrogel consisting of particles of oil-absorbing colloidal silica having an average water content of about 29% by weight, an average diameter of about 7 to about 10 micrometers, and less than about 70 cc / 100 g silica, is an example of a low-oil-absorbing silica abrasive that can be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.).

[0097] In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., composition 1, e.g., 1.1 to 1.40) comprise highly clean silica. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., composition 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 5% to 70% by weight of highly clean silica, e.g., 5% to 60% by weight of highly clean silica, e.g., 5% to 50% by weight of highly clean silica, e.g., 5% to 40% by weight of highly clean silica, e.g., 5% to 30% by weight of highly clean silica, e.g., 10% to 30% by weight of highly clean silica, e.g., 10% to 20% by weight of highly clean silica.

[0098] In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise a sweetener. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.005% to 10% by weight of a sweetener, such as 0.01% to 10% by weight, such as 0.1% to 10% by weight, such as 0.1% to 5% by weight, such as 0.1% to 3% by weight, such as 0.1% to 1% by weight, such as 0.1% to 0.5% by weight. Sweeteners that can be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) include, for example, sucrose, glucose, saccharin, sucralose, dextrose, levulose, lactose, mannitol, sorbitol, fructose, maltose, xylitol, saccharin salts (e.g., sodium saccharin), sematrandezidine, aspartame, D-tryptophan, dihydrochalcone, acesulfame potassium, cyclohexylsulfamic acid salts, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, sodium saccharin is used as a sweetener in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.). In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) contain 0.005% to 10% by weight of sodium saccharin, such as 0.01% to 10% by weight of sodium saccharin, such as 0.1% to 10% by weight of sodium saccharin, such as 0.1% to 5% by weight of sodium saccharin, such as 0.1% to 3% by weight of sodium saccharin, such as 0.1% to 1% by weight of sodium saccharin, such as 0.1% to 0.5% by weight of sodium saccharin.

[0099] In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise flavoring agents. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.1% to 5% by weight of a flavoring agent, such as 0.1% to 4% by weight, such as 0.1% to 3% by weight, such as 0.1% to 2% by weight, such as 0.5% to 2% by weight, such as 0.6% to 2% by weight, such as 0.7% to 2% by weight, such as 0.8% to 2% by weight, such as 0.9% to 2% by weight, such as 1% to 2% by weight. Flavoring agents that can be used in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) include, for example, essential oils, and various flavoring aldehydes, esters, alcohols and similar substances, as well as menthol, carvone and anethole, and mixtures thereof. Examples of essential oils include spearmint, peppermint, wintergreen, sassafras, clove, sage, eucalyptus, marjoram, cinnamon, lemon, lime, grapefruit, and orange oils. In some embodiments, a mixture of peppermint oil and spearmint oil is used as a flavoring agent in the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.).

[0100] In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise pigments. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.001 wt% to 20 wt% of pigment, for example, 0.01 wt% to 20 wt% of pigment, for example, 0.01 wt% to 20 wt% of pigment, for example, 0.1 wt% to 20 wt% of pigment, for example, 0.1 wt% to 10 wt% of pigment, for example, 0.1 wt% to 5 wt% of pigment, for example, 0.1 wt% to 3 wt% of pigment, for example, 0.1 wt% to 1 wt% of pigment. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise titanium dioxide. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.001 wt% to 20 wt% of titanium dioxide, such as 0.01 wt% to 20 wt% of titanium dioxide, such as 0.01 wt% to 20 wt% of titanium dioxide, such as 0.1 wt% to 20 wt% of titanium dioxide, such as 0.1 wt% to 10 wt% of titanium dioxide, such as 0.1 wt% to 5 wt% of titanium dioxide, such as 0.1 wt% to 3 wt% of titanium dioxide, such as 0.1 wt% to 1 wt% of titanium dioxide.

[0101] In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) further comprise a caries antagonist. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.005% to 10% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.01% to 10% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.01% to 5% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.01% to 1% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.01% to 0.3% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.1% to 10% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.1% to 5% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.1% to 2% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.1% to 1% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.1% to 0.8% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.1% to 0.6% by weight of a caries antagonist, such as 0.1% to 0.5% by weight of a caries antagonist. In some embodiments, the caries antagonist is a fluoride ion source. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) further comprise 0.005% to 10% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, 0.01% to 10% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, 0.01% to 5% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, 0.01% to 1% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, 0.01% to 0.3% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, 0. From 1% to 10% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, from 0.1% to 5% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, from 0.1% to 2% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, from 0.1% to 1% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, from 0.1% to 0.8% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, from 0.1% to 0.6% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source, for example, from 0.1% to 0.5% by weight of a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source. Examples of fluoride ion sources that can be used in the oral compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) are found in U.S. Patent No. 3,535,421 to Briner et al.; U.S. Patent No. 4,885,155 to Parran, Jr. et al.; and U.S. Patent No. 3,678,154 to Widder et al., all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Other examples of fluoride ion sources include, for example, stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, potassium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, sodium fluorosilicate, ammonium fluorosilicate, fluorinated amines (e.g., N'-octadecyltrimethylenediamine-N,N,N'-tris(2-ethanol)-dihydrofluoride), ammonium fluoride, titanium fluoride, hexafluorosulfate, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the fluoride ion source comprises stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, and sodium monofluorophosphate, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the caries inhibitor is sodium fluoride.In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) comprise 0.005% to 10% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.01% to 10% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.01% to 5% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.01% to 1% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.01% to 0.3% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.1% to 10% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.1% to 5% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.1% to 2% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.1% to 1% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.1% to 0.8% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.1% to 0.6% by weight of sodium fluoride, such as 0.1% to 0.5% by weight of sodium fluoride.

[0102] In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) contain an anti-caries agent as a fluoride ion source in an amount sufficient to supply 25 ppm to 25,000 ppm of fluoride ions, such as 100 ppm to 20,000 ppm of fluoride ions, such as 300 ppm to 15,000 ppm of fluoride ions, such as 500 ppm to 10,000 ppm of fluoride ions, such as 500 ppm to 8,000 ppm of fluoride ions, such as 500 ppm to 6,000 ppm of fluoride ions, such as 500 ppm to 4,000 ppm of fluoride ions, such as 500 ppm to 2,000 ppm of fluoride ions, such as 500 ppm to 1,800 ppm of fluoride ions, such as 1,000 ppm to 1,600 ppm of fluoride ions, such as 1,450 ppm of fluoride ions. The appropriate level of fluoride ions will depend on the specific application. In some embodiments, toothpaste intended for consumer use contains a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source in an amount sufficient to supply 1,000 ppm to 1,500 ppm of fluoride ions, with children's toothpaste containing slightly less fluoride ions. In some embodiments, dental cleaning agents or coatings for professional applications contain a caries antagonist as a fluoride ion source in an amount sufficient to supply 5,000 ppm to 25,000 ppm of fluoride ions.

[0103] Whitening agents whiten the teeth to which they are applied. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) contain a whitening agent. In some embodiments, the oral care compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) contain an effective amount of whitening agent for whitening the tooth surface, such as 0.1% to 90% by weight, 0.5% to 50% by weight, 1% to 30% by weight, or 2% to 10% by weight. Examples of whitening agents that can be used in the oral compositions disclosed herein (e.g., compositions 1.0 and below, etc.) include, for example, peroxides, metal chlorites, perborates, percarbonates, peroxy acids, hypochlorites, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the whitening agent is hydrogen peroxide or a hydrogen peroxide source, such as urea peroxide or a peroxide salt or complex (e.g., peroxyphosphate, peroxycarbonate, perborate, peroxysilicate or persulfate; e.g., calcium peroxyphosphate, sodium perborate, sodium peroxycarbonate, sodium peroxyphosphate and potassium persulfate), or a hydrogen peroxide polymer complex (e.g., a peroxide-polyvinylpyrrolidone polymer complex).

[0104] In one aspect, the whitening effect of a composition can be quantified using measurements in the L*a*b* color space. (L*a*b* refers to the staining score according to the International Commission on Illumination (CIELAB) color scale. L* represents lightness / darkness, a* represents red-green hue, and b* represents yellow-blue hue). Based on the L*a*b* values, the whiteness index is reported as ΔWIO, where ΔWIO can be calculated from the L*, a*, and b* values, where (x, y) are the chromaticity coordinates of the sample, and (xn, yn) are the reference sample.

[0105]

[0106] A positive and larger ΔWIO* value indicates increased teeth whitening.

[0107] L*a*b* values ​​can be measured using an optical shade-taking system to analyze and determine the color of the substrate (or tooth surface).

[0108] The following examples further illustrate the nature of the invention, but it should be understood that the invention is not limited thereto. Unless otherwise stated, all quantities and proportions mentioned herein and in the appended claims are by weight.

[0109] Example

[0110] Example 1 - Efficacy in preventing or reducing staining

[0111] Baseline L, A, B, and WIO measurements were taken from 200 human teeth using a Spectroshade micro II (Medical High Technologies) instrument, and the teeth were divided into two treatment groups of 50 teeth each. After baseline measurements, each individual unit was placed in a 37°C incubator and continuously circulated alternately in air / stained culture medium for one week.

[0112] The staining culture medium consisted of 200 ml of tobacco liquid (10% by weight), 200 ml of coffee (1 g per 50 ml of water), 200 ml of tea (1 tea bag per 50 ml of water), 200 ml of filtered Foxhorn Cabernet Sauvignon wine, 1 L of pancreatin-soybean culture medium, 3.75 g of gastric mucin, and 0.2 g of FeCl3. The pH of the staining culture medium was adjusted to 6.9 to 7.2 before tooth exposure. The culture medium was changed every two days. The two units differed only in the absence / presence of bacteria. One unit had no intentionally added bacteria, while the other had 45 ml of *Rhizobium rhizogenes* added to the staining culture medium before staining. After one week, the teeth were removed, rinsed, patted dry, and L, A, and B were measured. The final WIO measurements and differences were calculated. The results are described in Table 1.

[0113] Table 1: ΔWIO values ​​of the staining efficacy of staining culture solution on human teeth. Letters (A, B) indicate statistically distinct values.

[0114]

[0115] Table 1 also shows that *Rhizotrophus* can provide stain reduction benefits because the average ΔWIO (i.e., change in whitening effect) is statistically smaller than that of the control sample in which no bacteria were added (i.e., less stains accumulated).

Claims

1. An oral care composition comprising an effective amount of a bacterial species selected from the genus Kocuria, wherein the amount of said bacterial species is sufficient to effectively reduce enamel staining and / or enhance enamel whitening in the oral cavity.

2. The oral care composition according to claim 1, wherein the bacterial species is derived from the genus *Kokuria*, and wherein the bacterial species is selected from one or more of the group consisting of: *Kocuria aegyptia*, *Kocuria arsenatis*, *Kocuria assamensis*, *Kocuria atrinae*, *Kocuria carniphila*, *Kocuria dechangensis*, *Kocuria flava*, *Kocuria gwangalliensis*, *Kocuria halotolerans*, *Kocuria himachalensis*, *Kocuria indica*, *Kocuria korea*, *Kocuria marina*, and *Kocuria occulta*. Kocuria oceani, Kocuria ocularis, Kocuria palustris, Kocuria pelophila, Kocuria polaris, Kocuria rhizophila, Kocuria rosea, Kocuria salina, Kocuria salsicia, Kocuria sediminis, Kocuria subflava, Kocuria turfanensis, Kocuria tytonicola, Kocuria uropygialis, Kocuria uropygioeca, Kocuria varians, and combinations thereof.

3. The oral care composition according to claim 2, wherein the bacterial species is Rhizoctonia solani.

4. The oral care composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bacterial species is present in an amount of 0.1% to 5% by weight of the composition.

5. The oral care composition according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises an anti-tartar agent.

6. The oral care composition according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises an anti-tartar agent, said anti-tartar agent being a polyphosphate.

7. The oral care composition according to any one of the preceding claims comprises at least one surfactant selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, and combinations thereof.

8. The oral care composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises gel strips or fragments.

9. The oral care composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the composition is in the form of: mouthwash, toothpaste, tooth gel, tooth powder, non-abrasive gel, mousse, foam, oral spray, lozenge, oral tablet and dental appliance.

10. A method for preventing or reducing enamel staining and / or enhancing enamel whitening in the oral cavity, wherein the method comprises contacting the oral cavity of a subject with the need for this purpose with a composition comprising an effective amount of the composition according to claim 1.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the bacterial species is from the genus *Cocheria*, and wherein the species is selected from: *Cocheria haleri*, *Cocheria arsenate*, *Cocheria assamica*, *Cocheria jiangyao*, *Cocheria fleshophile*, *Cocheria deschanii*, *Cocheria flavum*, *Cocheria guanganri*, *Cocheria salina*, *Cocheria simonii*, *Cocheria simonii*, *Cocheria ininica*, *Cocheria koreanum*, *Cocheria natans*, *Cocheria natans*, *Cocheria ophthalmica*, *Cocheria swampica*, *Cocheria sphaerophyte*, *Cocheria extremophile*, *Cocheria rhizotrophus*, *Cocheria rosea*, *Cocheria salina*, *Cocheria caesarea*, *Cocheria sedimentae*, *Cocheria microflagellate*, *Cocheria turpanensis*, *Cocheria barbadensis*, *Cocheria urophylla*, *Cocheria urophylla*, *Cocheria alternifolia*, and any combination of the foregoing species.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the bacterial species is *Rhizotrophus*.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the rhizotrophoblast is present at 0.1% to 5% by weight of the composition.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising an anti-tartar agent.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, comprising at least one surfactant selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, and combinations thereof.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, further comprising at least one moisturizing agent.

17. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 16, further comprising at least one humectant selected from glycerin, sorbitol, and combinations thereof.

18. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the composition is selected from the following forms: mouthwash, toothpaste, tooth gel, tooth powder, non-abrasive gel, mousse, foam, oral spray, lozenge, oral tablet and dental appliance.

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