Dye composition and method for detection of demineralized lesions in teeth

Abstract

The present invention relates to an oral care dye composition for detection of demineralization lesions comprising: a first phase (or first composition) comprising from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the composition of a blue dye and mixtures thereof; a second phase (or second composition) comprising from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the composition of a red dye or a yellow dye or mixtures thereof; a safe and effective amount of a solvent wherein the dye is soluble in the solvent; and optionally a safe and effective amount of a flavor; wherein the composition is effective for detection of demineralized lesions. The present invention further relates to method of visually highlighting demineralization lesions, in tooth surfaces, or a method of detecting the mineralization health of teeth, wherein the above dye composition is applied to the oral cavity or to the teeth, of a human or animal subject, in need thereof. In one embodiment a first dye composition and a second dye composition are applied, sequentially, to a human or animal subject's oral cavity or teeth, in need thereof, wherein after the dye compositions are applied, the teeth are visually observed to assess demineralized lesions stained by the dyes.

Description

[0001] This patent application claims all rights to US Provisional Patent Application 60 / 502,152, filed September 11,2003. technical field [0002] The present invention relates to a method of examining demineralization damage. The invention also relates to compositions comprising selected blue and red or yellow dye systems for the examination of demineralized lesions such as early caries lesions (eg leukoplakia), carious lesions, tooth erosion and / or orthodontically induced demineralization. Background technique [0003] Although the incidence of dental caries has declined in several regions over the past 40 years, dental caries remains a prevalent disease and the leading cause of tooth loss worldwide. Fluoride, provided through communal fluoridated water and fluoridated dentifrices, has been shown to be the most cost-effective public health mechanism for preventing tooth decay. However, the availability of fluoride is still a worldwide problem. In the United States, fluo...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0006] All of these tools, including the use of dyes, lack the specificity to identify demineralized lesions and early symptoms of demineralized lesions such as leukoplakia, nor are they specific enough to distinguish healthy teeth from caries-infected parts of the tooth

Images