Dual component dental composition containing enzyme

Abstract

A two component desensitizing dentifrice composition is disclosed which comprises a first dentifrice component containing an enzyme such as papain and a second dentifrice component containing an ionic surfactant such as sodium lauryl sulfate, the first and second dentifrice components being maintained separate from the other until dispensed for application to teeth whereby enzyme activity is maintained with improved dentifrice foaming characteristics.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 10 / 229,551, filed Aug. 28, 2002, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Oral compositions such as toothpastes, gels and mouth washes are designed to loosen and remove plaque in conjunction with a regular toothbrushing regimen. Dental plaque is present to some degree, in the form of a film, on virtually all dental surfaces. It is a byproduct of microbial growth, and comprises a dense microbial layer consisting of a mass of microorganisms embedded in a polysaccharide matrix. Plaque itself adheres firmly to dental surfaces and is removed only with difficulty even through a rigorous brushing regimen. Moreover, plaque rapidly reforms on the tooth surface after it is removed. Plaque may form on any part of the tooth surface, and is found particularly at the gingival margin, in cracks in the enamel, and on the surface of dental calcul...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006] In accordance with the present invention there is provided a method for combining the plaque dispersion properties of active enzymes and the superior foaming action of ionic surfactants using a multicomponent dentifrice which dentifrice is comprised of separately housed, semi-solid aqueous components; the first component containing the enzyme in an orally acceptable vehicle and a second component containing an ionic surfactant in an orally acceptable vehicle whereupon combination of the components provides a dentifrice having superior foaming properties without antiplaque enzyme activity being significantly affected.

Problems solved by technology

Plaque itself adheres firmly to dental surfaces and is removed only with difficulty even through a rigorous brushing regimen.

The problem associated with the formation of plaque on the teeth lies in the tendency of plaque to build up and eventually produce gingivitis, periodontitis and other types of periodontal disease, as well as dental caries and dental calculus.

A problem encountered with the use of enzymes in oral care compositions is that often the enzyme of choice is not compatible with surfactants, namely ionic surfactants such as anionic surfactants which are preferred for use in oral compositions such as dentifrices and mouthwashes to achieve increased prophylactic action, provide superior foaming properties and render the compositions more cosmetically acceptable.