Oral care product and method for its use and manufacture

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention refers to an oral care composition comprising a) an effective amount of a salt of a basic amino acid, the salt having a pH in an unbuffered solution of from 6.5 to 7.4; b) an effective amount of a soluble fluoride salt; and c) a particulate material which has a pH in an unbuffered solution of less than 7.5; wherein the particulate material is dicalcium phosphate; and wherein the salt of the basic amino acid is arginine phosphate. This invention further refers to a method for preparing an oral care composition comprising a) forming a premix by combining a basic amino acid with an acid and / or salt thereof to obtain a pH of from 6 to 7.3, and b) combining the premix with other ingredients of the formulation, including a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium phosphate salt; wherein the basic amino acid is arginine, and wherein the acid is phosphoric acid. This invention further refers to an oral care composition for use in a method of a) treating or preventing dental caries, b) treating or preventing enamel lesions, c) treating or preventing demineralization of the teeth, d) treating hypersensitivity of the teeth, e) treating or preventing gingivitis, f) preventing microbial biofilm formation in the oral cavity, g) preventing plaque accumulation, and / or h) treating or preventing erosion, which method comprises applying an effective amount of the oral care composition to an oral cavity.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Arginine and other basic amino acids have been proposed for use in oral care and are believed to have significant benefits in combating cavity formation and tooth sensitivity. Combining these basic amino acids with minerals having oral care benefits, e.g., fluoride and calcium, to form an oral care product having acceptable long term stability, however, has proven challenging. In particular, the basic amino acid may raise the pH and facilitate dissociation of calcium ions that can react with fluoride ions to form an insoluble precipitate. Moreover, the higher pH has the potential to cause irritation. At neutral pH or acidic pH, however, a system utilizing arginine bicarbonate (which the art teaches is preferred) may release carbon dioxide, leading to bloating and bursting of the containers. Moreover, it might be expected that lowering the pH to neutral or acidic conditions would reduce the efficacy of the formulation because the arginine may form an insoluble arginine-calcium complex that has a poorer affinity for the tooth surface, and moreover that lowering the pH would reduce any effect the formulation might have on buffering cariogenic lactic acid in the mouth. Partly because of these unaddressed formulation hurdles and partly because arginine has generally been viewed in the art as a potential alternative to fluoride rather than a co-active, there has been little motivation to make oral care products comprising both arginine and fluoride. Additional hurdles are potentially posed by addition of an antimicrobial agent. Commercially available arginine-based toothpaste, such as ProClude ®< and DenClude ®< , for example, contain arginine bicarbonate and calcium carbonate, but not fluoride nor any antimicrobial agent. US 4,064,138 A discloses amino acid derivatives selected from the group consisting of amino acid monofluorophosphate, amino acid hydrofluoride phosphate, amino acid dimonofluorophosphate and their alkali metal salts, said amino acids being selected from the group consisting of lysine hydroxylysine, arginine, histidine and ornithine.

[0003] Accordingly, there is a need for a stable oral care product that provides a basic amino acid and also provides beneficial minerals such as fluoride and calcium.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The invention refers to an oral care composition comprising a) an effective amount of a salt of a basic amino acid, the salt having a pH in an unbuffered solution of from 6.5 to 7.4; b) an effective amount of a soluble fluoride salt; and c) a particulate material which has a pH in an unbuffered solution of less than 7.5; wherein the particulate material is dicalcium phosphate; and wherein the salt of the basic amino acid is arginine phosphate. The invention also refers to a method for preparing an oral care composition comprising a) forming a premix by combining a basic amino acid with an acid and / or salt thereof to obtain a pH of from 6 to 7.3, and b) combining the premix with other ingredients of the formulation, including a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium phosphate salt; wherein the basic amino acid is arginine, and wherein the acid is phosphoric acid. The invention also refers to an oral care composition according to the claims for use in a method for the treatment of conditions according to the claims, which comprises applying an effective amount of the oral care composition to an oral cavity.

[0005] In particular embodiments, the Compositions of the Invention are in the form of a dentifrice comprising additional ingredients selected from one or more of water, abrasives, surfactants, foaming agents, vitamins, polymers, enzymes, humectants, thickeners, antimicrobial agents, preservatives, flavorings, colorings and / or combinations thereof.

[0006] Without intending to be bound by a particular theory, it is hypothesized that a significant factor in the beneficial effect of arginine is that arginine and other basic amino acids can be metabolized by certain types of bacteria, e.g., S. sanguis which are not cariogenic and which compete with cariogenic bacteria such as S. mutans, for position on the teeth and in the oral cavity. The arginolytic bacteria can use arginine and other basic amino acids to produce ammonia, thereby raising the pH of their environment, while cariogenic bacteria metabolize sugar to produce lactic acid, which tends to lower the plaque pH and demineralize the teeth, ultimately leading to cavities. It is believed that regular use of a Composition of the Invention, over time, will lead to a relative increase in the arginolytic bacteria and a relative decrease in the cariogenic bacteria, resulting in a higher plaque pH (notwithstanding that the Composition of the Invention is itself generally pH neutral, the basic amino acid having been neutralized by an inorganic oxoacid). It is believed that this pH-raising effect may be mechanistically separate from and complementary to the effect of fluoride in promoting remineralization and strengthening the tooth enamel.

[0007] Irrespective of the precise mechanism, however, it is surprisingly found that the combination of fluoride, the particulate material dicalcium phosphate and arginine, in an oral care product according to the present invention produces unexpected benefits beyond and qualitatively different from what can be observed using compositions comprising effective amounts of either compound separately, in promoting remineralization, repairing early enamel lesions, and enhancing oral health.

[0008] The presence of arginine phosphate is also surprisingly found to reduce bacterial adhesion to the tooth surface, particularly when the basic amino acid is provided in combination with an anionic surfactant. The combination of arginine phosphate and the anionic surfactant also enhances delivery of antimicrobial agents, particularly triclosan.

[0009] The invention thus further encompasses compositions for use in a method of: (i) treating or preventing dental caries, (ii) treating or preventing enamel lesions, e.g., as detected by quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) or electrical caries measurement (ECM), (iii) treating or preventing demineralization of the teeth, (iv) treatinghypersensitivity of the teeth, (v) treating or preventing gingivitis, (vi) preventing microbial biofilm formation in the oral cavity, (vii) preventing plaque accumulation, and / or (vii) treating or preventing erosion, which method comprises applying an effective amount of the oral care composition to an oral cavity.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIONGeneral Description

[0010] The invention thus comprises an oral care composition (Composition 1.0) according to the claims comprising i. an effective amount of arginine phosphate e.g., present in an amount of at least 1%, for example 1 to 15%, having a pH in an unbuffered solution of from 6.5 to7.4, e.g.,6.8 to7.2, e.g., approximately neutral pH; ii. an effective amount of a soluble fluoride salt, e.g., sodium monofluorophosphate, providing from100 to 25,000 ppm fluoride ions, e.g.,750 to2000 ppm; iii. dicalcium phosphate, which has a pH in an unbuffered solution of less than 7.5, e.g., 6 to 7.4, e.g., 6.8 to 7.2, e.g., approximately neutral pH; for example any of the following compositions: 1.0.1. Composition 1.0 wherein arginine has the L-configuration. 1.0.2. The salt of the basic amino acid is arginine phosphate as defined in the claims. 1.0.3. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the arginine phosphate is formed by forming a premix by combining arginine with phosphoric acid or a salt thereof. 1.0.4. Any of the preceding compositions wherein arginine is present in an amount corresponding to 0.1 to 20%, e.g., 1 wt. % to 15 wt. %, of the total composition weight, the weight of arginine being calculated as free base form. 1.0.5. Composition 1.0.4 wherein arginine is present in an amount of 7.5 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.0.6. Composition 1.0.4 wherein arginine is present in an amount of 5 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.0.7. Composition 1.0.4 wherein arginine is present in an amount of 3.75 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.0.8. Composition 1.0.4 wherein arginine is present in an amount of 1.5 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.0.9. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the fluoride salt is stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, potassium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, sodium fluorosilicate, ammonium fluorosilicate, amine fluoride (e.g., N'-octadecyltrimethylendiamine-N,N,N'-tris(2-ethanol)-dihydrofluoride), ammonium fluoride, titanium fluoride, hexafluorosulfate, and combinations thereof. 1.0.10. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the fluoride salt is a fluorophosphate. 1.0.11. Any of the preceding composition wherein the fluoride salt is sodium monofluorophosphate. 1.0.12. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the fluoride salt is present in an amount of 0.01 wt. % to 2 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.0.13. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the soluble fluoride salt provides fluoride ion in an amount of 0.1 to 0.2 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.0.14. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the soluble fluoride salt provides fluoride ion in an amount of from 50 to 25,000 ppm. 1.0.15. Any of the preceding compositions which is a mouthwash having 100 to 250 ppm available fluoride ion. 1.0.16. Any of which is a dentifrice having 750 to 2000 ppm available fluoride ion. 1.0.17. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the composition comprises 750 to 2000 ppm fluoride ion. 1.0.18. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the composition comprises 1000 to 1500 ppm fluoride ion. 1.0.19. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the composition comprises 1450 ppm fluoride ion. 1.0.20. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the pH is between 6 and 7.4. 1.0.21. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the pH is between 6.8 and 7.2. 1.0.22. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the pH is approximately neutral. 1.0.23. Any of the preceding compositions comprising an abrasive in an amount of 15 wt. % to 70 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.0.24. Any of the preceding compositions comprising a small particle abrasive fraction of at least 5% having a d50 of less than5 micrometers. 1.0.25. Any of the preceding compositions having a RDA of less than 150, e.g., 40 to 140. 1.0.26. Any of the preceding compositions comprising at least one surfactant. 1.0.27. Any of the preceding compositions comprising at least one surfactant selected from sodium lauryl sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, and combinations thereof. 1.0.28. Any of the preceding compositions comprising an anionic surfactant. 1.0.29. Any of the preceding compositions comprising sodium lauryl sulfate. 1.0.30. Any of the preceding compositions comprising at least one humectant. 1.0.31. Any of the preceding compositions comprising at least one humectant selected from glycerin, sorbitol and combinations thereof. 1.0.32. Any of the preceding compositions comprising at least one polymer. 1.0.33. Any of the preceding compositions comprising at least one polymer selected from polyethylene glycols, polyvinylmethyl ether maleic acid copolymers, polysaccharides (e.g., cellulose derivatives, for example carboxymethyl cellulose, or polysaccharide gums, for example xanthan gum or carrageenan gum), and combinations thereof. 1.0.34. Any of the preceding compositions comprising gum strips or fragments. 1.0.35. Any of the preceding compositions comprising flavoring, fragrance and / or coloring. 1.0.36. Any of the preceding compositions comprising water. 1.0.37. Any of the preceding compositions comprising an antibacterial agent. 1.0.38. Any of the preceding compositions comprising an antibacterial agent selected from halogenated diphenyl ether (e.g. triclosan), herbal extracts and essential oils (e.g., rosemary extract, tea extract, magnolia extract, thymol, menthol, eucalyptol, geraniol, carvacrol, citral, hinokitol, catechol, methyl salicylate, epigallocatechin gallate, epigallocatechin, gallic acid, miswak extract, sea-buckthorn extract), bisguanide antiseptics (e.g., chlorhexidine, alexidine or octenidine), quaternary ammonium compounds (e.g., cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), benzalkonium chloride, tetradecylpyridinium chloride (TPC), N-tetradecyl-4-ethylpyridinium chloride (TDEPC)), phenolic antiseptics, hexetidine, octenidine, sanguinarine, povidone iodine, delmopinol, salifluor, metal ions (e.g., zinc salts, for example, zinc citrate, stannous salts, copper salts, iron salts), sanguinarine, propolis and oxygenating agents (e.g., hydrogen peroxide, buffered sodium peroxyborate or peroxycarbonate), phthalic acid and its salts, monoperthalic acid and its salts and esters, ascorbyl stearate, oleoyl sarcosine, alkyl sulfate, dioctyl sulfosuccinate, salicylanilide, domiphen bromide, delmopinol, octapinol and other piperidino derivatives, nicin preparations, chlorite salts; and mixtures of any of the foregoing. 1.0.39. Any of the preceding compositions comprising an anti-inflammatory compound, e.g., an inhibitor of at least one of host pro-inflammatory factors selected from matrix metalloproteinases (MMP's), cyclooxygenases (COX), PGE 2 , interleukin 1 (IL-1), IL-1β converting enzyme (ICE), transforming growth factor (β1 (TGF-β1), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), hyaluronidase, cathepsins, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and IL-1 Receptor Associated Kinase (IRAK), e,g, selected from aspirin, ketorolac, flurbiprofen, ibuprofen, naproxen, indomethacin, aspirin, ketoprofen, piroxicam, meclofenamic acid, nordihydoguaiaretic acid, and mixtures thereof. 1.0.40. Any of the preceding compositions comprising a whitening agent. 1.0.41. Any of the preceding compositions comprising a whitening agent selected from a whitening active selected from the group consisting of peroxides, metal chlorites, perborates, percarbonates, peroxyacids, hypochlorites, and combinations thereof. 1.0.42. Any of the preceding compositions further comprising hydrogen peroxide or a hydrogen peroxide source, e.g., urea peroxide or a peroxide salt or complex (e.g., such as peroxyphosphate, peroxycarbonate, perborate, peroxysilicate, or persulphate salts; for example calcium peroxyphosphate, sodium perborate, sodium carbonate peroxide, sodium peroxyphosphate, and potassium persulfate), or hydrogen peroxide polymer complexes such as hydrogen peroxide-polyvinyl pyrrolidone polymer complexes. 1.0.43. Any of the preceding compositions comprising an antioxidant, e.g., selected from the group consisting of Co-enzyme Q10, PQQ, Vitamin D, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, anethole-dithiothione, and mixtures thereof. 1.0.44. Any of the preceding compositions comprising triclosan. 1.0.45. Any of the preceding composition comprising triclosan and Zn 2+< ion source, e.g., zinc citrate. 1.0.46. Any of the preceding compositions comprising an antibacterial agent in an amount of 0.01 to 5 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.0.47. Any of the preceding compositions comprising triclosan in an amount of 0.01 to 1 wt. percent of the total composition weight. 1.0.48. Any of the preceding compositions comprising triclosan in an amount of 0.3% of the total composition weight. 1.0.49. Any of the preceding compositions further comprising an agent that interferes with or prevents bacterial attachment, e.g., solbrol or chitosan. 1.0.50. Any of the preceding compositions further comprising an anti-calculus agent. 1.0.51. Any of the preceding compositions further comprising an anti-calculus agent which is a polyphosphate, e.g., pyrophosphate, tripolyphosphate, or hexametaphosphate, e.g., in sodium salt form. 1.0.52. Any of the preceding compositions further comprising a source of calcium and phosphate selected from (i) calcium-glass complexes, e.g., calcium sodium phosphosilicates, and (ii) calcium-protein complexes, e.g., casein phosphopeptideamorphous calcium phosphate. 1.0.53. Any of the preceding compositions further comprising a soluble calcium salt, e.g., selected from calcium sulfate, calcium chloride, calcium nitrate, calcium acetate, calcium lactate, and combinations thereof. 1.0.54. Any of the preceding compositions further comprising a physiologically acceptable potassium salt, e.g., potassium nitrate or potassium chloride, in an amount effective to reduce dentinal sensitivity. 1.0.55. Any of the preceding compositions comprising from 0.1% to 7.5% of a physiologically acceptable potassium salt, e.g., potassium nitrate and / or potassium chloride. 1.0.56. Any of the preceding compositions for use in a method of a) treating or preventing dental caries, b) treating or preventing enamel lesions, c) treating or preventing demineralization of the teeth, d) treating hypersensitivity of the teeth, e) treating or preventing gingivitis, f) preventing microbial film formation in the oral cavity, g) preventing plaque accumulation, and / or h) treating or preventing erosion, which method comprises applying an effective amount of the oral care composition to an oral cavity. 1.0.57. A composition obtained or obtainable by combining the according to the claims. 1.0.58. Any of the preceding compositions in a form selected from mouthrinse, toothpaste, tooth gel, tooth powder, non-abrasive gel, mousse, foam, mouth spray, lozenge, oral tablet, dental implement, and pet care product. 1.0.59. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the composition is toothpaste. 1.0.60. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the composition is a toothpaste optionally further comprising one or more of one or more of water, abrasives, surfactants, foaming agents, vitamins, polymers, enzymes, humectants, thickeners, antimicrobial agents, preservatives, flavorings, colorings and / or combinations thereof. 1.0.61. Any of the preceding compositions 1.0 - 1.0.57 wherein the composition is a mouthwash.

[0011] In one embodiment the invention encompasses an oral care composition (Composition 1.1), e.g., according to any of the preceding Compositions 1.0 - 1.0.61, comprising i. an effective amount of arginine phosphate, having a pH in an unbuffered solution of from 6.5 to 7.4 ii. dicalcium phosphate which has a pH in an unbuffered solution of less than about 7.5; and iii. an effective amount of a soluble fluoride salt.

[0012] The invention thus comprises, e.g., the following embodiments of Composition 1.1. 1.1.1. Composition 1.1 wherein the dicalcium phosphate is in the form of the dihydrate (CaHPO 4 • 2H 2 O). 1.1.2. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein arginine has the L-configuration. 1.1.3. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. comprising a arginine phosphate formed by reaction of arginine with phosphoric acid or with an alkali or ammonium salt of phosphoric acid. 1.1.4. The oral care composition is comprising arginine phosphate as defined in the claims. 1.1.5. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein the fluoride salt is stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, potassium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, sodium fluorosilicate, ammonium fluorosilicate, amine fluoride, ammonium fluoride, and combinations thereof. 1.1.6. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein the soluble fluoride salt as defined in the claims is a fluorophosphate salt. 1.1.7. Any of the preceding composition wherein the soluble fluoride salt as defined in the claims is sodium monofluorophosphate. 1.1.8. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein arginine is present in an amount corresponding to 1 wt. % to 10 wt. % of the total composition weight, the weight of arginine being calculated as free base form. 1.1.9. Composition 1.1.5 wherein arginine is present in an amount of 7.5 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.1.10. Composition 1.1.5 wherein arginine is present in an amount of 5 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.1.11. Composition 1.1.5 wherein arginine is present in an amount of 3.75 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.1.12. Composition 1.1.5 wherein arginine is present in an amount of 1.5 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.1.13. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein dicalcium phosphate is present in an amount of 20 wt. % to 60 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.1.14. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein dicalcium phosphate is present in an amount of 40 wt. % to 50 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.1.15. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein arginine phosphate is formed by reaction with phosphoric acid or phosphate salts to provide an approximately neutral pH, e.g., pH 6.8 to pH 7.2. 1.1.16. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein the fluoride salt is present in an amount of 0.01 wt. % to 2 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.1.17. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein the fluoride salt provides fluoride ion in an amount of 0.1 to 0.2 wt. % of the total composition weight. 1.1.18. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq., e.g., in the form of a dentifrice, wherein the composition comprises 500 to 15,000 ppm fluoride ion. 1.1.19. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein the composition comprises 1000 to 1500 ppm fluoride ion. 1.1.20. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein the composition comprises 1450 ppm fluoride ion. 1.1.21. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein the pH is less than 7.5. 1.1.22. Any of the preceding compositions wherein the pH is between 6 and 7.3. 1.1.23. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein the pH is between 6.8 and 7.2. 1.1.24. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. for use in a method of a) treating or preventing dental caries, b) treating or preventing enamel lesions, c) treating or preventing demineralization of the teeth, d) treating hypersensitivity of the teeth, e) treating or preventing gingivitis, f) preventing microbial film formation in the oral cavity, g) preventing plaque accumulation, and / or h) treating or preventing erosion, which method comprises applying an effective amount of the oral care composition to an oral cavity. 1.1.25. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. comprising arginine phosphate, dicalcium phosphate dihydrate, and sodium monofluorophosphate. 1.1.26. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. obtained or obtainable by the steps of combining arginine with phosphoric acid, an inorganic phosphate salt, or a combination thereof to obtain a pH of 7 to form a premix, which is used to make the desired composition. 1.1.27. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. obtained or obtainable by the steps of combining arginine with phosphoric acid, an inorganic phosphate salt, or a combination thereof to obtain a pH of 7 to form a premix, and combining the premix with dicalcium phosphate, and a fluoride ion source. 1.1.28. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. obtained or obtainable by any of Method 2, et seq. as hereinafter set forth. 1.1.29. A composition obtained or obtainable by combining the ingredients as set forth in any of the preceding compositions. 1.1.30. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 et seq. wherein the composition is toothpaste. 1.1.31. Composition 1.1.27 wherein the composition is a toothpaste optionally further comprising one or more of one or more of water, abrasives, surfactants, foaming agents, vitamins, polymers, enzymes, humectants, thickeners, antimicrobial agents, preservatives, flavorings, colorings and / or combinations thereof. 1.1.32. Any of the foregoing Compositions 1.1 - 1.1.26 wherein the composition is a mouthwash.

[0013] Disclosed is a composition comprising ö i. an effective amount of a salt of a basic amino acid; ii. an effective amount of a soluble fluoride salt; iii. an anionic surfactant, e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate.

[0014] Further disclosed is a composition comprising i. an effective amount of a salt of a basic amino acid; ii. an effective amount of a soluble fluoride salt; iii. an anionic surfactant, e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate; iv. an anionic polymer, e.g., a copolymer of methyl vinyl ether and maleic anhydride; and v. an antibacterial agent, e.g., triclosan.

[0015] Further disclosed is a composition comprising i. an effective amount of a salt of a basic amino acid; ii. an effective amount of a soluble fluoride salt; and iii. a particulate material, the composition having an RDA of less than 160, e.g., 40 to 140, e.g., comprising at least 5% of a particulate having a d50 less than 5 micrometers, e.g., silica having a d50 of 3 to 4 micrometers.

[0016] In another embodiment, the invention refers to a method (Method 2) for preparing an oral composition, e.g., any Compositions under 1.0, or 1.1, , comprising i. forming a premix by combining a basic amino acid with an acid and / or salt thereof to obtain a pH of from 6 to 7.3, and ii. combining the premix with other ingredients of the formulation, including a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium phosphate salt; wherein the basic amino acid is arginine, and wherein the acid is phosphoric acid.

[0017] Method 2 thus comprises, e.g., the following embodiments: 2.1. Method 2 wherein the acid combined with arginine is phosphoric acid. 2.2. Any of the preceding methods wherein the other ingredients of the formulation comprise dicalcium phosphate. 2.3. The preceding method wherein the calcium phosphate is dicalcium phosphate dihydrate. 2.4. Any of the preceding methods wherein the fluoride salt is selected from stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, potassium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, sodium fluorosilicate, ammonium fluorosilicate, amine fluoride, ammonium fluoride, and combinations thereof. 2.5. Any of the preceding methods wherein the fluoride salt is a fluorophosphate. 2.6. Any of the preceding methods wherein the fluoride salt is sodium monofluorophosphate. 2.7. Any of the preceding methods arginine acid has the L-configuration. 2.8. Any of the preceding methods wherein the premix has a pH of 6.8 to 7.2. 2.9. Any of the preceding methods wherein the premix has a pH of 7. 2.10. Any of the preceding methods when carried out at room temperature and pressure. 2.11. Any of the preceding methods wherein the ingredients and their respective amounts are as set forth in any of the embodiments as set forth under Compositions 1.0, or 1.1.

[0018] In another embodiment, the invention refers to an oral care composition for use in a method of i. treating or preventing dental caries, ii. treating or preventing enamel lesions, e.g., as detected by quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) or electrical caries measurement (ECM), iii. treating or preventing demineralization of the teeth, iv. treating hypersensitivity of the teeth, v. treating or preventing gingivitis, vi. preventing microbial biofilm formation in the oral cavity, vii. preventing plaque accumulation; and or viii. reduce erosion, which method comprises applying an effective amount of the oral care composition to an oral cavity.

[0019] Disclosed is the use of arginine in the manufacture of an oral care composition.

[0020] The invention further refers to an oral care composition according to the claims comprising arginine phosphate, a soluble fluoride salt and dicalcium phosphate for use in a method of treating or preventing at least one of demineralization of teeth and enamel lesions within an oral cavity of a subject. It has been found surprisingly that such a composition exhibits enhanced treatment of teeth demineralization or lesions even before dental caries have been formed.

[0021] Further disclosed is the use of a basic amino acid, in free or salt form, in an oral care composition comprising a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium salt of an inorganic acid for enhancing the mineralization of teeth within an oral cavity of a subject, and the use of a basic amino acid, in free or salt form, for the manufacture of a medicament which includes a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium salt of an inorganic acid for enhancing the mineralization of teeth within an oral cavity of a subject.

[0022] Further disclosed is a composition for use in a method of mineralizing at least one of demineralized teeth and enamel lesions within an oral cavity of a subject, the method comprising treating the oral cavity with an oral care composition comprising a basic amino acid, in free or salt form, a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium salt of an inorganic acid.

[0023] Further disclosed is an oral care composition comprising a salt of a basic amino acid neutralized by an inorganic acid for reducing or inhibiting the formation of dental caries by increasing the pH of plaque in an oral cavity of a subject when treated with the oral composition. It has been found surprisingly that such a composition exhibits increased plaque pH which can reduce or inhibit the formation of dental caries before dental caries have been formed.

[0024] Further disclosed is a salt of a basic amino acid neutralized by an inorganic acid in an oral care composition for use in a method of reducing or inhibiting the formation of dental caries by increasing the pH of plaque in an oral cavity of a subject when treated with the oral composition, and the use of a salt of a basic amino acid neutralized by an inorganic acid for the manufacture of a medicament for use in reducing or inhibiting the formation of dental caries by increasing the pH of plaque in an oral cavity of a subject treated with the medicament.

[0025] Further disclosed is a composition for use in a method of increasing the pH of plaque in an oral cavity of a subject, the method comprising treating the oral cavity with an oral care composition comprising a salt of a basic amino acid neutralized by an inorganic acid.

[0026] Further disclosed is an oral care composition comprising a salt of a basic amino acid and an inorganic acid, a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium salt of an inorganic acid. It has been found surprisingly that such a composition exhibits enhanced fluoride stability in the composition over a period of time.

[0027] Further disclosed is an oral care composition comprising a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium salt of an inorganic acid, and, in addition, a salt of a basic amino acid and an inorganic acid for increasing the stability of the fluoride in the composition.

[0028] The invention further refers to a method of producing an oral care composition, the method according to the claims comprising the steps of: i. forming a premix by combining a basic amino acid with an acid and / or salt thereof to obtain a pH of from 6 to 7.3, and ii. combining the premix with other ingredient of the formulation, including a soluble fluoride salt and a phosphate salt; wherein the basic amino acid is arginine, and wherein the acid is phosphoric acid.

[0029] Further disclosed is a method of producing an oral care composition, the method comprising the step of: combining together a basic amino acid component, a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium salt of an inorganic acid, wherein for increasing the stability of the fluoride in the composition, the basic amino acid is neutralized with an inorganic acid to form a salt of the basic amino acid prior to the combining step.

[0030] Further disclosed is the use, in an oral care composition, of a salt of a basic amino acid, the salt being formed by neutralizing the basic amino acid with an inorganic acid, as an additive for an oral care composition, comprising at least a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium salt of an inorganic acid, for increasing the stability of the fluoride in the composition.

[0031] It may therefore be seen by the skilled practitioner in the oral care art that a number of different yet surprising technical effects and advantages can result from the formulation, and use, of an oral care composition, for example a dentifrice, in accordance with one or more aspects of the invention, which are directed to the provision of different combinations of active components or ingredients, and preferably their respective amounts, within the composition.

[0032] Levels of active ingredients will vary based on the nature of the delivery system and the particular active. For example, arginine may be present at levels from, e.g., 0.1 to 20 wt % (expressed as weight of free base), e.g., 0.1 to 3 wt % for a mouthrinse, 1 to 10 wt % for a consumer toothpaste or 7 to 20 wt % for a professional or prescription treatment product. Fluoride may be present at levels of, e.g., 25 to 25,000 ppm, for example 25 to 250 ppm for a mouthrinse, 750 to 2,000 ppm for a consumer toothpaste, or 2,000 to 25,000 ppm for a professional or prescription treatment product. Levels of antibacterial will vary similarly, with levels used in toothpaste being e.g., 5 to 15 times greater than used in mouthrinse. For example, a triclosan mouthrinse may contain, e.g., 0.03 wt % triclosan while a triclosan toothpaste may contain 0.3 wt % triclosan.Basic Amino Acids

[0033] The salt of the basic amino acid according to the claims is arginine phosphate. Disclosed (not claimed) are amino acids which can be used in the compositions and methods of the invention include not only naturally occurring basic amino acids, such aslysine and histidine, but also any basic amino acids having a carboxyl group and an amino group in the molecule, which are water-soluble and provide an aqueous solution with a pH of 7 or greater.

[0034] Accordingly, disclosed (not claimed) are lysine, citrullene, ornithine, creatine, histidine, diaminobutanoic acid, diaminoproprionic acid, salts thereof or combinations thereof. The salt of the basic amino acid is arginine phosphate as defined in the claims, for example, 1-arginine phosphate.

[0035] The salt of a basic amino acid comprises at least one intermediate produced in the arginine deiminase system. The intermediates produced in the arginine deiminase system may be useful in an oral care composition to provide plaque neutralization for caries control and / or prevention. Arginine is a natural basic amino acid that may be found in the oral cavity. Arginine in the mouth may be utilized by certain dental plaque bacterial strains such as S. sanguis, S. gordonii, S. parasanguis, S. rattus, S. milleri, S. anginosus, S. faecalis, A. naeslundii, A. odonolyticus, L. cellobiosus, L. brevis, L. fermentum, P. gingivalis, and T. denticola for their survival. Such organisms may perish in an acidic environment that may be present at areas close to the tooth surface where acidogenic and aciduric cariogenic strains may use sugars to produce organic acids. Thus, these arginolytic strains may break down arginine to ammonia to provide alkalinity to survive and, in addition, buffer the plaque and make a hostile environment for the cariogenic systems.

[0036] Such arginolytic organisms may catabolize arginine by an internal cellular enzyme pathway system called the "arginine deiminase system" whereby intermediates in the pathway are formed. In this pathway, L-arginine may be broken down to L-citrulline and ammonia by arginine deiminase. L-citrulline may then be broken down by ornithane trancarbamylase in the presence of inorganic phosphate to L-ornithine and carbamyl phosphate. Carbamate kinase may then break down carbamyl phosphate to form another molecule of ammonia and carbon dioxide, and in the process also forms ATP (adenosine 5'-triphosphate). ATP may be used by the arginolytic bacteria as an energy source for growth. Accordingly, when utilized, the arginine deiminase system may yield two molecules of ammonia.

[0037] It has been found that, in some embodiments, the ammonia may help in neutralizing oral plaque pH to control and / or prevent dental caries.

[0038] Disclosed are intermediates produced in the arginine deiminase system. Such intermediates may include citrulline, ornithine, and carbamyl phosphate. In some embodiments, the other care composition includes citrulline. In some embodiments, the oral care composition includes ornithine. In some embodiments, the oral care composition includes carbamyl phosphate. In other embodiments, the oral care composition includes any combination of citrulline, ornithine, carbamyl phosphate, and / or other intermediates produced by the arginine deiminase system.

[0039] Disclosed are the above described intermediates in an effective amount. Disclosed is the oral care composition including 1 mmol / L to 10 mmol / L intermediate. Disclosed is the oral care composition including 3 mmol / L to 7 mmol / L intermediate. Disclosed is the oral care composition including 5 mmol / L intermediate.

[0040] The compositions of the invention are intended for topical use in the mouth and so salts for use in the present invention should be safe for such use, in the amounts and concentrations provided. Suitable salts include salts known in the art to be pharmaceutically acceptable salts are generally considered to be physiologically acceptable in the amounts and concentrations provided. Physiologically acceptable salts include those derived from pharmaceutically acceptable inorganic or organic acids or bases, for example acid addition salts formed by acids which form a physiological acceptable anion, e.g., hydrochloride or bromide salt, and base addition salts formed by bases which form a physiologically acceptable cation, for example those derived from alkali metals such as potassium and sodium or alkaline earth metals such as calcium and magnesium. Physiologically acceptable salts may be obtained using standard procedures known in the art, for example, by reacting a sufficiently basic compound such as an amine with a suitable acid affording a physiologically acceptable anion.

[0041] In various embodiments, the arginine phosphate is present in an amount of 0.5 wt. % to 20 wt. % of the total composition weight, 1 wt. % to 15 wt. % of the total composition weight, for example 1.5 wt. %, 3.75 wt. %, 5 wt. %, or 7.5 wt. %, or 10wt% of the total composition weight.Inorganic acids, inorganic oxoacids, and their salts

[0042] The term "inorganic acid" refers to acids which do not contain carbon, e.g., mineral acids, e.g., hydrochloric acid. In a particular embodiment, the inorganic acid is an "inorganic oxoacid", which refers to acids, such as phosphoric acid or sulfuric acid, which contain oxygen and at least one other element, which have at least one hydrogen atom bound to oxygen, which form an ion by loss of one or more protons, and which do not contain carbon.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the Compositions of the Invention are substantially free of further organic phosphates, e.g., alkyl phosphates or phytates and / or are substantially free of further carbonates or bicarbonates. By "substantially free" is meant, in this context, present if at all in amounts of less than 5%, e.g., less than 1% relative to the inorganic acid or inorganic oxoacid.

[0044] Inorganic oxoacids within the scope of the present invention include, but are not limited to, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid (i.e., orthophosphoric acid or H 3 PO 4 ) and condensates of phosphoric acid, e.g., pyrophosphoric acid or tri-poly phosphoric acid. In some embodiments, the acid to form a salt with the basic amino acid or with the calcium is provided in the form of another salt, Salts thereof for use in the present invention to neutralize the basic amino acid are those having relatively high solubility, e.g., alkali salts and ammonium salts of orthophosphoric acid, such as potassium, sodium or ammonium orthophosphate, which are capable of buffering the basic amino acid to a pH of below 7.5.

[0045] The oxoacids are present in an amount to neutralize the calcium and the basic amino acid sufficiently so as to provide an approximately neutral pH, e.g., pH 6.8 to 7.2.

[0046] In a particular embodiment, the oxoacid which provides the anion for the calcium salt and the oxoacid which provides the anion for the salt of the basic amino acid are the same, as the common ion effect is believed to lend stability to the formulation.Fluoride Ion Source

[0047] The oral care compositions further include one or more fluoride ion sources, that is soluble fluoride salts. A wide variety of fluoride ion-yielding salts can be employed as sources of soluble fluoride in the present compositions. Examples of suitable fluoride ion-yielding salts are found in U.S. Pat. No. 3,535,421, to Briner et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,885,155, to Parran, Jr. et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 3,678,154, to Widder et al..

[0048] Representative fluoride ion salts include, but are not limited to, stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, potassium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, sodium fluorosilicate, ammonium fluorosilicate, amine fluoride, ammonium fluoride, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments the fluoride ion source includes stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate as well as mixtures thereof.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the oral care composition of the invention may also contain a source of fluoride ions or fluorine-providing ingredient in amounts sufficient to supply 25 ppm to 25,000 ppm of fluoride ions, generally at least 500 ppm, e.g., 500 to 2000 ppm, e.g., 1000 to 1600 ppm, e.g., 1450 ppm. The appropriate level of fluoride will depend on the particular application. A mouthwash, for example, would typically have 100 to 250 ppm fluoride. A toothpaste for general consumer use would typically have 1000 to 1500 ppm, with pediatric toothpaste having somewhat less. A dentifrice or coating for professional application could have as much as 5,000 or even 25,000 ppm fluoride.

[0050] Fluoride ion sources may be added to the compositions of the invention at a level of 0.01 wt. % to 10 wt. % in one embodiment or 0.03 wt. % to 5 wt. %, and in another embodiment 0.1 wt. % to 1 wt. % by weight of the composition in another embodiment. Weights of fluoride salts to provide the appropriate level of fluoride ion will obviously vary based on the weight of the counter ion in the salt.Particulates and Abrasives

[0051] The Compositions of the Invention comprise a particulate material which has a pH in an unbuffered solution of less than about 7.5, wherein the particulate material is dicalcium phosphate as defined in the claims. Abrasives can be a calcium phosphate abrasive, that is dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (CaHPO 4 • 2H 2 O, also sometimes referred to herein as DiCal) or calcium pyrophosphate. Disclosed is calcium carbonate, and in particular precipitated calcium carbonate, as an abrasive.

[0052] The compositions may include one or more additional particulate materials, for example silica abrasives such as precipitated silicas having a mean particle size of up to 20 microns, such as Zeodent 115 ®< , marketed by J. M. Huber. Other useful abrasives also include sodium metaphosphate, potassium metaphosphate, aluminum silicate, calcined alumina, bentonite or other siliceous materials, or combinations thereof.

[0053] The silica abrasive polishing materials useful herein, as well as the other abrasives, generally have an average particle size ranging between 0.1 and 30 microns, between 5 and 15 microns. The silica abrasives can be from precipitated silica or silica gels, such as the silica xerogels described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,538,230, to Pader et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 3,862,307, to Digiulio. Particular silica xerogels are marketed under the trade name Syloid ®< by the W. R. Grace & Co., Davison Chemical Division. The precipitated silica materials include those marketed by the J. M. Huber Corp. under the trade name Zeodent ®< , including the silica carrying the designation Zeodent 115 and 119. These silica abrasives are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,340,583, to Wason.

[0054] Disclosed are abrasive materials useful in the practice of the oral care compositions that include silica gels and precipitated amorphous silica having an oil absorption value of less than 100 cc / 100 g silica and in the range of 45 cc / 100 g to 70 cc / 100 g silica. Oil absorption values are measured using the ASTA Rub-Out Method D281. Disclosed are silicas that are colloidal particles having an average particle size of 3 microns to 12 microns, and 5 to 10 microns.

[0055] Disclosed are particulate or abrasive materials that comprise a large fraction of very small particles, e.g., having a d50 less than 5 microns, for example small particle silica (SPS) having a d50 of 3 to 4 microns, for example Sorbosil AC43 ®< (Ineos). Such small particles are particularly useful in formulations targeted at reducing hypersensitivity. The small particle component may be present in combination with a second larger particle abrasive. In certain embodiments, for example, the formulation comprises 3 to 8% SPS and 25 to 45% of a conventional abrasive.

[0056] Disclosed are low oil absorption silica abrasives particularly that are marketed under the trade designation Sylodent XWA ®< by Davison Chemical Division of W.R. Grace & Co., Baltimore, Md. 21203. Sylodent 650 XWA ®< , a silica hydrogel composed of particles of colloidal silica having a water content of 29% by weight averaging 7 to 10 microns in diameter, and an oil absorption of less than 70 cc / 100 g of silica is an example of a low oil absorption silica abrasive useful for understanding the present invention. Disclosed is the abrasive present in the oral care composition at a concentration of 10 to 60% by weight, in other embodiment 20 to 45% by weight, and in another embodiment 30 to 50% by weight.

[0057] Disclosed is the basic amino acid incorporated into a dentifrice composition having a base formulation comprising calcium carbonate, and in particular precipitated calcium carbonate, as an abrasive. L-arginine and arginine salts such as arginine bicarbonate are themselves distinctly bitter in taste, and in aqueous solution can also impart a fishy taste. Consequently, it was expected that when L-arginine or arginine salts were incorporated into oral care products such as dentifrice formulations at effective concentrations to impart anticavity efficacy and sensitivity relief, typically in an amount of from 2 to 10wt % based on the total weight of the dentifrice formulation, the taste and mouthfeel of the dentifrice formulations would be degraded as compared to the same formulation without the addition of L-arginine or arginine salts.

[0058] However, it has surprisingly been found in accordance with an aspect useful for understanding the present invention that the addition of L-arginine or arginine salts to a base dentifrice formulation comprising calcium carbonate can provide a significant enhancement of taste and mouthfeel attributes to the dentifrice formulation and to an increase in the overall acceptance of the product to a consumer.Agents to Increase the Amount of Foaming

[0059] The oral care compositions of the invention also may include an agent to increase the amount of foam that is produced when the oral cavity is brushed.

[0060] Illustrative examples of agents that increase the amount of foam include, but are not limited to polyoxyethylene and certain polymers including, but not limited to, alginate polymers.

[0061] The polyoxyethylene may increase the amount of foam and the thickness of the foam generated by the oral care carrier component of the present invention. Polyoxyethylene is also commonly known as polyethylene glycol ("PEG") or polyethylene oxide. The polyoxyethylenes suitable for this invention will have a molecular weight of 200,000 to 7,000,000. In one embodiment the molecular weight will be 600,000 to 2,000,000 and in another embodiment 800,000 to 1,000,000. Polyox ®< is the trade name for the high molecular weight polyoxyethylene produced by Union Carbide.

[0062] The polyoxyethylene may be present in an amount of 1% to 90%, in one embodiment 5% to 50% and in another embodiment 10% to 20% by weight of the oral care carrier component of the oral care compositions of the present invention. The dosage of foaming agent in the oral care composition (i.e., a single dose) is 0.01 to 0.9 % by weight, 0.05 to 0.5% by weight, and in another embodiment 0.1 to 0.2 % by weight.Surfactants

[0063] Another agent optionally included in the oral care composition of the invention is a surfactant or a mixture of compatible surfactants. Suitable surfactants are those which are reasonably stable throughout a wide pH range, for example, anionic, cationic, nonionic or zwitterionic surfactants.

[0064] Suitable surfactants are described more fully, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 3,959,458, to Agricola et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 3,937,807, to Haefele; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,051,234, to Gieske et al..

[0065] In certain embodiments, the anionic surfactants useful herein include the water-soluble salts of alkyl sulfates having 10 to 18 carbon atoms in the alkyl radical and the water-soluble salts of sulfonated monoglycerides of fatty acids having 10 to 18 carbon atoms. Sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate and sodium coconut monoglyceride sulfonates are examples of anionic surfactants of this type. Mixtures of anionic surfactants may also be utilized.

[0066] In another embodiment, cationic surfactants useful in the present invention can be broadly defined as derivatives of aliphatic quaternary ammonium compounds having one long alkyl chain containing 8 to 18 carbon atoms such as lauryl trimethylammonium chloride, cetyl pyridinium chloride, cetyl trimethylammonium bromide, diisobutylphenoxyethyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, coconut alkyltrimethylammonium nitrite, cetyl pyridinium fluoride, and mixtures thereof.

[0067] Illustrative cationic surfactants are the quaternary ammonium fluorides described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,535,421, to Briner et al.. Certain cationic surfactants can also act as germicides in the compositions.

[0068] Illustrative nonionic surfactants that can be used in the compositions of the invention can be broadly defined as compounds produced by the condensation of alkylene oxide groups (hydrophilic in nature) with an organic hydrophobic compound which may be aliphatic or alkylaromatic in nature. Examples of suitable nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, the Pluronics, polyethylene oxide condensates of alkyl phenols, products derived from the condensation of ethylene oxide with the reaction product of propylene oxide and ethylene diamine, ethylene oxide condensates of aliphatic alcohols, long chain tertiary amine oxides, long chain tertiary phosphine oxides, long chain dialkyl sulfoxides and mixtures of such materials.

[0069] In certain embodiments, zwitterionic synthetic surfactants useful in the present invention can be broadly described as derivatives of aliphatic quaternary ammonium, phosphomium, and sulfonium compounds, in which the aliphatic radicals can be straight chain or branched, and wherein one of the aliphatic substituents contains 8 to 18 carbon atoms and one contains an anionic water-solubilizing group, e.g., carboxy, sulfonate, sulfate, phosphate or phosphonate. Illustrative examples of the surfactants suited for inclusion into the composition include, but are not limited to, sodium alkyl sulfate, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, cocoamidopropyl betaine and polysorbate 20, and combinations thereof.

[0070] In a particular embodiment, the Composition of the Invention comprises an anionic surfactant, e.g., sodium lauryl sulfate.

[0071] The surfactant or mixtures of compatible surfactants can be present in the compositions of the present invention in 0.1% to 5.0%, in another embodiment 0.3% to 3.0% and in another embodiment 0.5% to 2.0% by weight of the total composition.Flavoring Agents

[0072] The oral care compositions of the invention may also include a flavoring agent. Flavoring agents which are used in the practice of the present invention include, but are not limited to, essential oils as well as various flavoring aldehydes, esters, alcohols, and similar materials. Examples of the essential oils include oils of spearmint, peppermint, wintergreen, sassafras, clove, sage, eucalyptus, marjoram, cinnamon, lemon, lime, grapefruit, and orange. Also useful are such chemicals as menthol, carvone, and anethole. Certain embodiments employ the oils of peppermint and spearmint.

[0073] The flavoring agent is incorporated in the oral composition at a concentration of 0.1 to 5% by weight and 0.5 to 1.5% by weight. The dosage of flavoring agent in the individual oral care composition dosage (i.e., a single dose) is 0.001 to 0.05% by weight and in another embodiment 0.005 to 0.015 % by weight.Chelating agents

[0074] The oral care compositions of the invention also may optionally include one or more chelating agents able to complex calcium found in the cell walls of the bacteria. Binding of this calcium weakens the bacterial cell wall and augments bacterial lysis.

[0075] Another group of agents suitable for use as chelating agents in the present invention are the soluble pyrophosphates. The pyrophosphate salts used in the present compositions can be any of the alkali metal pyrophosphate salts. In certain embodiments, salts include tetra alkali metal pyrophosphate, dialkali metal diacid pyrophosphate, trialkali metal monoacid pyrophosphate and mixtures thereof, wherein the alkali metals are sodium or potassium. The salts are useful in both their hydrated and unhydrated forms. An effective amount of pyrophosphate salt useful in the present composition is generally enough to provide at least 1.0 wt. % pyrophosphate ions, 1.5 wt. % to 6 wt. %, 3.5 wt. % to 6 wt. % of such ions.Polymers

[0076] The oral care compositions of the invention also optionally include one or more polymers, such as polyethylene glycols, polyvinylmethyl ether maleic acid copolymers, polysaccharides (e.g., cellulose derivatives, for example carboxymethyl cellulose, or polysaccharide gums, for example xanthan gum or carrageenan gum). Acidic polymers, for example polyacrylate gels, may be provided in the form of their free acids or partially or fully neutralized water soluble alkali metal (e.g., potassium and sodium) or ammonium salts. Certain embodiments include 1:4 to 4:1 copolymers of maleic anhydride or acid with another polymerizable ethylenically unsaturated monomer, for example, methyl vinyl ether (methoxyethylene) having a molecular weight (M.W.) of 30,000 to 1,000,000. These copolymers are available for example as Gantrez AN 139(M.W. 500,000), AN 119 (M.W. 250,000) and S-97 Pharmaceutical Grade (M.W. 70,000), of GAF Chemicals Corporation.

[0077] Other operative polymers include those such as the 1:1 copolymers of maleic anhydride with ethyl acrylate, hydroxyethyl methacrylate, N-vinyl-2-pyrollidone, or ethylene, the latter being available for example as Monsanto EMA No. 1103, M.W. 10,000 and EMA Grade 61, and 1:1 copolymers of acrylic acid with methyl or hydroxyethyl methacrylate, methyl or ethyl acrylate, isobutyl vinyl ether or N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone.

[0078] Suitable generally, are polymerized olefinically or ethylenically unsaturated carboxylic acids containing an activated carbon-to-carbon olefinic double bond and at least one carboxyl group, that is, an acid containing an olefinic double bond which readily functions in polymerization because of its presence in the monomer molecule either in the alpha-beta position with respect to a carboxyl group or as part of a terminal methylene grouping. Illustrative of such acids are acrylic, methacrylic, ethacrylic, alpha-chloroacrylic, crotonic, beta-acryloxy propionic, sorbic, alpha-chlorsorbic, cinnamic, beta-styrylacrylic, muconic, itaconic, citraconic, mesaconic, glutaconic, aconitic, alpha-phenyl acrylic, 2-benzyl acrylic, 2-cyclohexylacrylic, angelic, umbellic, fumaric, maleic acids and anhydrides. Other different olefinic monomers copolymerizable with such carboxylic monomers include vinylacetate, vinyl chloride, dimethyl maleate and the like. Copolymers contain sufficient carboxylic salt groups for water-solubility.

[0079] A further class of polymeric agents includes a composition containing homopolymers of substituted acrylamides and / or homopolymers of unsaturated sulfonic acids and salts thereof, in particular where polymers are based on unsaturated sulfonic acids selected from acrylamidoalykane sulfonic acids such as 2-acrylamide 2 methylpropane sulfonic acid having a molecular weight of 1,000 to 2,000,000, described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,842,847, Jun. 27, 1989 to Zahid.

[0080] Another useful class of polymeric agents includes polyamino acids, particularly those containing proportions of anionic surface-active amino acids such as aspartic acid, glutamic acid and phosphoserine, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,866,161 Sikes et al..

[0081] In preparing oral care compositions, it is sometimes necessary to add some thickening material to provide a desirable consistency or to stabilize or enhance the performance of the formulation. In certain embodiments, the thickening agents are carboxyvinyl polymers, carrageenan, hydroxyethyl cellulose and water soluble salts of cellulose ethers such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium carboxymethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose. Natural gums such as karaya, gum arabic, and gum tragacanth can also be incorporated. Colloidal magnesium aluminum silicate or finely divided silica can be used as component of the thickening composition to further improve the composition's texture. In certain embodiments, thickening agents in an amount of 0.5% to 5.0% by weight of the total composition are used.Enzymes

[0082] The oral care compositions of the invention may also optionally include one or more enzymes. Useful enzymes include any of the available proteases, glucanohydrolases, endoglycosidases, amylases, mutanases, lipases and mucinases or compatible mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments, the enzyme is a protease, dextranase, endoglycosidase and mutanase. In another embodiment, the enzyme is papain, endoglycosidase or a mixture of dextranase and mutanase. Additional enzymes suitable for use in the present invention are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,000,939 to Dring et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,992,420; U.S. Pat. No. 4,355,022; U.S. Pat. No. 4,154,815; U.S. Pat. No. 4,058,595; U.S. Pat. No. 3,991,177; and U.S. Pat. No. 3,696,191. An enzyme of a mixture of several compatible enzymes in the current invention constitutes 0.002% to 2% in one embodiment or 0.05% to 1.5% in another embodiment or in yet another embodiment 0.1% to 0.5%.Water

[0083] Water may also be present in the oral compositions of the invention. Water, employed in the preparation of commercial oral compositions should be deionized and free of organic impurities. Water commonly makes up the balance of the compositions and includes 10% to 90%, 20% to 60% or 10% to 30% by weight of the oral compositions. This amount of water includes the free water which is added plus that amount which is introduced with other materials such as with sorbitol or any components of the invention.Humectants

[0084] Within certain embodiments of the oral compositions, it is also desirable to incorporate a humectant to prevent the composition from hardening upon exposure to air. Certain humectants can also impart desirable sweetness or flavor to dentifrice compositions. The humectant, on a pure humectant basis, generally includes 15% to 70% in one embodiment or 30% to 65% in another embodiment by weight of the dentifrice composition.

[0085] Suitable humectants include edible polyhydric alcohols such as glycerine, sorbitol, xylitol, propylene glycol as well as other polyols and mixtures of these humectants. Mixtures of glycerine and sorbitol may be used in certain embodiments as the humectant component of the toothpaste compositions herein.

[0086] In addition to the above described components, the embodiments of this invention can contain a variety of optional dentifrice ingredients some of which are described below. Optional ingredients include, for example, but are not limited to, adhesives, sudsing agents, flavoring agents, sweetening agents, additional antiplaque agents, abrasives, and coloring agents. These and other optional components are further described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,004,597, to Majeti; U.S. Pat. No. 3,959,458 to Agricola et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 3,937,807, to Haefele.Methods of Manufacture

[0087] The compositions of the present invention can be made using methods which are common in the oral product area.

[0088] The oral care composition is made by a method according to the claims, e.g., neutralizing arginine in a gel phase with phosphoric acid and mixing to form Premix 1.

[0089] Actives such as, for example, vitamins, CPC, fluoride, abrasives, and any other desired active ingredients are added to Premix 1 and mixed to form Premix 2.

[0090] A toothpaste base, for example, dicalcium phosphate is added to Premix 2 and mixed. The final slurry is formed into an oral care product.Composition Use

[0091] The present invention in its method aspect involves applying to the oral cavity a safe and effective amount of the compositions described herein.

[0092] The compositions and methods according to the invention are useful to a method to protect the teeth by facilitating repair and remineralization, in particular to reduce or inhibit formation of dental caries, reduce or inhibit demineralization and promote remineralization of the teeth, reduce hypersensitivity of the teeth, and reduce, repair or inhibit early enamel lesions, e.g., as detected by quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) or electronic caries monitor (ECM).

[0093] Quantitative Light-induced Fluorescence is a visible light fluorescence that can detect early lesions and longitudinally monitor the progression or regression. Normal teeth fluoresce in visible light; demineralized teeth do not or do so only to a lesser degree. The area of demineralization can be quantified and its progress monitored. Blue laser light is used to make the teeth auto fluoresce. Areas that have lost mineral have lower fluorescence and appear darker in comparison to a sound tooth surface. Software is used to quantify the fluorescence from a white spot or the area / volume associated with the lesion. Generally, subjects with existing white spot lesions are recruited as panelists. The measurements are performed in vivo with real teeth. The lesion area / volume is measured at the beginning of the clinical. The reduction (improvement) in lesion area / volume is measured at the end of 6 months of product use. The data is often reported as a percent improvement versus baseline.

[0094] Electrical Caries Monitoring is a technique used to measure mineral content of the tooth based on electrical resistance. Electrical conductance measurement exploits the fact that the fluid-filled tubules exposed upon demineralization and erosion of the enamel conduct electricity. As a tooth loses mineral, it becomes less resistive to electrical current due to increased porosity. An increase in the conductance of the patient's teeth therefore may indicate demineralization. Generally, studies are conducted of root surfaces with an existing lesion. The measurements are performed in vivo with real teeth. Changes in electrical resistance before and after 6 month treatments are made. In addition, a classical caries score for root surfaces is made using a tactile probe. The hardness is classified on a three point scale: hard, leathery, or soft. In this type of study, typically the results are reported as electrical resistance (higher number is better) for the ECM measurements and an improvement in hardness of the lesion based on the tactile probe score.

[0095] The Compositions of the Invention are thus useful in a method to reduce early enamel lesions (as measured by QLF or ECM) relative to a composition lacking effective amounts of fluorine and / or arginine.

[0096] Disclosed are compositions for use in methods to reduce harmful bacteria in the oral cavity, for example methods to reduce or inhibit gingivitis, reduce levels of acid producing bacteria, to increase relative levels of arginolytic bacteria, inhibit microbial biofilm formation in the oral cavity, raise and / or maintain plaque pH at levels of at least pH 5.5 following sugar challenge, reduce plaque accumulation, treat dry mouth, and / or clean the teeth and oral cavity.

[0097] Finally, by increasing the pH in the mouth and discouraging pathogenic bacteria, disclosed are compositions useful to promote healing of sores or cuts in the mouth.

[0098] The compositions and methods according to the invention can be incorporated into oral compositions for the care of the mouth and teeth such as toothpastes, transparent pastes, gels, mouth rinses, sprays and chewing gum.

[0099] Enhancing oral health also provides benefits in systemic health, as the oral tissues can be gateways for systemic infections. Good oral health is associated with systemic health, including cardiovascular health. Disclosed are compositions that provide particular benefits because basic amino acids, especially arginine, are sources of nitrogen which supply NO synthesis pathways and thus enhance microcirculation in the oral tissues. Providing a less acidic oral environment is also helpful in reducing gastric distress and creates an environment less favorable to Heliobacter, which is associated with gastric ulcers. Arginine in particular is required for high expression of specific immune cell receptors, for example T-cell receptors, so that arginine can enhance an effective immune response. Disclosed are compositions useful to enhance systemic health, including cardiovascular health.

[0100] As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range. It is understood that when formulations are described, they may be described in terms of their ingredients, as is common in the art, notwithstanding that these ingredients may react with one another in the actual formulation as it is made, stored and used, and such products are intended to be covered by the formulations described.

[0101] The following examples further describe and demonstrate illustrative embodiments within the scope of the present invention. The examples are given solely for illustration and are not to be construed as limitations of this invention as many variations are possible without departing from the scope thereof. Various modifications of the invention in addition to those shown and described herein should be apparent to those skilled in the art and are intended to fall within the appended claims.EXAMPLESComparative example 1 - Stability test of arginine bicarbonate formulation

[0102] When arginine bicarbonate is placed in a pH neutral dicalcium base toothpaste formulation, it is found to be not stable, as the bicarbonate degrades to carbon dioxide, leading to bloating and busting of the toothpaste tubes: ProductInitial Cosmetic12 weeks accelerated (40°C)Dical + 2.0% arginine-bicarbonate*OKSevere bloating, tubes burstDical + 3.75% L-arginine*OKOK*: not claimed Dical = Dicalcium phosphate dihydrate Example 2 - Fluoride stability

[0103] As is seen in the following table, simply adding arginine to a dicalcium phosphate / fluoride base and adjusting to neutral pH results in poor fluoride stability, with fluoride dropping off to sub-effective levels within a few weeks. We have surprisingly discovered that neutralization of arginine in the gel phase with phosphoric acid prior to addition of dicalcium phosphate dihydrate abrasive results in increased fluoride stability. Product Initial Fluoride 4 weeks (40°C) 8 weeks (40°C) 12 weeks (40°C) Dical + 1.5% L-arginine*1442 ppm1049 ppm693 ppm366 ppmDical + 3.75% L-arginine*953 ppm812 ppm680 ppm51 ppmDical + 1.5% L-1516 ppm1372 ppm1325 ppm1208 ppmarginine + 0.6% H 3 PO 4 Dical + 3.75% L-arginine + 1.25 % H 3 PO 4 1489 ppm1319 ppm1294 ppm1138 ppmNotes: *: not claimed Dical = Dicalcium phosphate dihydrate Phosphoric acid is provided as 85% solution

[0104] The degree of neutralization of the arginine with the acid is related maintaining fluoride stability, with either too little or too much resulting in some loss of stability as seen in the following study: Product Initial Fluoride 4 weeks (40°C) 8 weeks (40°C) 12 weeks (40°C) Dical + 1.5% L-arginine + 0.5% H 3 PO 4 1419 ppm1335 ppm1269 ppm1107 ppmDical + 1.5% L-arginine + 0.6% H 3 PO 4 1516 ppm1372 ppm1325 ppm1208 ppmDical + 1.5% L-arginine + 0.75 % H 3 PO 4 1439 ppm1264 ppm1184 ppm1029 ppmDical + 3.75% L-arginine + 1.0 % H 3 PO 4 1356 ppm1098 ppm882 ppm634 ppmDical + 3.75% L-arginine + 1.25 % H 3 PO 4 1489 ppm1319 ppm1294 ppm1138 ppmDical + 3.75% L-arginine + 1.45 % H 3 PO 4 1385 ppm1219 ppm1117 ppm958 ppmNotes: Dical = Dicalcium phosphate dihydrate Fluoride supplied as sodium monofluorophosphate, units in ppm fluoride

[0105] Optimally, the ratio of arginine to phosphoric acid for optimal fluoride stability is thus approximately 2:1 to approximately 4:1, e.g., from 2.5:1 to 3:1, e.g., 1.5% arginine to 0.6% phosphoric acid or 3.75% arginine to 1.25% phosphoric acid (with phosphoric acid as 85% solution) The optimal ratio for a given formulation may vary somewhat however depending on the other ingredients in the particular formulation.Example 3: Formulation

[0106] An optimized arginine / calcium / fluoride toothpaste formulation is prepared using the following ingredients: MATERIAL WEIGHT % Deionized Water21.479Glycerin22.000Carboxymethyl cellulose1.100Sodium Saccharin0.200Sodium Monofluorophosphate1.100Tetrasodium pyrophosphate0.500Phosphoric acid 85%0.600L-Arginine1.500Dicalcium phosphate dihydrate46.500Sodium lauryl sulfate 35%4.071Flavor0.950TOTAL100.000

[0107] This formulation demonstrates good shelf life, cosmetic stability and fluoride stability.Example 4 - Efficacy in Remineralization

[0108] The neutralized dicalcium phosphate / arginine phosphate / fluoride formulation is tested against dicalcium phosphate / fluoride formulations without arginine in a clinical study of demineralization / remineralization.

[0109] In this model enamel specimens experience conditions of demineralization and remineralization in the mouth. Demineralizing conditions are created by dipping the specimens in s sugar solution. The cariogenic bacteria form acids and cause the pH to drop. In this model, blocks of bovine specimens that have been polished flat to a mirror finish are prepared. A micro hardness tester is used to measure the hardness of the enamel specimen at baseline (M1). The micro hardness tester uses a diamond tipped probe to create an indent in the enamel specimen with a known and constant load. The length of the indent is inversely related to the enamel hardness. Enamel hardness is directly correlated with the mineral content. The specimens are covered with a Dacron mesh and then mounted in a retainer. The specimens are worn 24 hours per day for 5 days. During the 5 day period, the panelists dip their retainer in a sucrose solution 4 times per day. This treatment causes the pH fluctuations. The panelists brush their teeth two times per day with the assigned dentifrice while the retainer is in the mouth. After 5 days, the specimens are removes from the retainer and a micro hardness measurement is conducted (M2). The plaque can be further analyzed for plaque ecology or plaque metabolism measurements. Because of the highly cariogenic condition created by dipping the specimens sugar 4 times per day, most treatments tend to experience a net loss in mineral after the 5 day treatment, hence, the name "demin-remin model". The best treatment loses the least amount of mineral. There are circumstances, however, where a net increase in hardness is achieved with a particularly effective treatment.

[0110] The statistical analysis is a two factor analysis using the subject and treatment as factors. The results can be expressed as a %change in hardness (M2-M1) / M1 x100 or a net change in hardness M2-M1. If a percent change is used as the measured response, a two factor ANOVA is conducted. If a net change in hardness is used, a two factor ANCOVA is conducted using M1 as the covariate. Differences are considered significant if a 95% confidence level is achieved. Typically a 250 ppm fluoride (or nonfluoride) and a dentifrice with a standard level of fluoride are included as negative and positive controls and are used to validate the model. The fluoride level in the positive control is most commonly 1000, 1100, or 1450 ppm fluoride. The control chosen is dependent on the fluoride level in the test dentifrice. The model is considered validated if positive control is shown to be significantly better than the negative control. Once the model is validated, the test product is compared to the negative control. It should be noted that the panelist effect is normally very significant; therefore, it is not expected that the same numerical result for an identical treatment will be obtained using a different study population. Formulation% mineral changeDical + 250 MFP*-12.7Dical + 1450 MFP*-1.87Dical + 1.5% neutralized arginine + 1450 MFP+8.27 (Example 3)

[0111] Notes: *: not claimed Dical = Dicalcium phosphate dihydrate MFP = sodium monofluorophosphate, units in ppm fluoride

[0112] The neutralized dicalcium phosphate / arginine phosphate / fluoride formulation is the only formulation to show an actual increase mineralization in this clinical study.Example 5 - Efficacy in raising plaque pH

[0113] Plaque ammonia production in patients using the formulation of example 3 is compared to a formulation which does not have arginine. Plaque is collected from patients in the clinical study of the previous example after one week of usage of the different formulations, and concentration of the samples is normalized in buffer. The samples are challenged with sucrose, then arginine is added. The plaque is incubated at 37 degrees C for 30 minutes, and ammonia production measured using a commercially available ammonia detection kit from Diagnostic Chemicals Limited (Oxford, CT) to measure ammonia production. FormulationAmmonia levels (ppm)Dical + 250 MFP*1.97Dical + 1450 MFP*1.79Dical + 1.5% neutralized arginine + 1450 MFP2.77 (Example 3)

[0114] Notes: *: not claimed Dical = Dicalcium phosphate dihydrate MFP = sodium monofluorophosphate, units in ppm fluoride

[0115] After one week of usage, the formulation of example 3 results in a plaque which has significantly higher levels of ammonia, showing that it contains relatively higher levels of arginolytic bacteria.

[0116] This result is confirmed by measuring the plaque pH directly. Plaque is collected from the subjects in the morning after a period of fasting and no brushing, at the baseline, first, second, third and fourth weeks of the trial. The buccal and lingual surfaces are swabbed. The sample concentrations are normalized in buffer. The samples are challenged with sucrose, then incubated at 37 degrees C for two hours, after which time the pH is measured to determine plaque pH. After four weeks, the plaque pH of the arginine group is between 5.5 and 5.6, while that of the control group is 5.3, essentially unchanged from baseline. This result is statistically and clinically relevant, because enamel exposed to pH below 5.5 is subject to demineralization and damage.

[0117] Accordingly, the arginine toothpaste with fluoride is seen to provide a long term buffering effect in the plaque, which persists for long periods after brushing, and which helps protect the teeth and control cariogenic bacteria, notwithstanding that the arginine itself has been neutralized in the formulation with phosphoric acid.Example 6 - Efficacy in Reducing Bacterial Attachment

[0118] Toothpaste formulations are provided as follows (amounts given as weight percent of final formulation): Ingredients Formulation A Formulation B Control* Glycerin222222Sodium CMC -7MF10.851Tetrasodium phosphate0.250.250.25Water18.1415.324.94L-Arginine550Phosphoric acid1.81.80Sodium MFP0.760.760.76Sodium Saccharin0.20.20.2Dicalcium phosphate dihydrate48.7648.7648.76Flavor0.890.890.89Sodium Lauryl Sulfate1.201.2Cocamidopropyl betaine01.340Polysorbate 2001.680Pluronic F12701.170Total (%)100100100*: not claimed

[0119] The above formulations are tested in vitro in an artificial mouth model designed to measure bacterial attachment to toothpaste-treated hydroxyapatite (HAP) disks over a 24 hour period, generally as described by Gaffar, A. et al. American Journal of Dentistry, vol. 3, September 1990. This test showed reductions of 27% for Formulation A and 10% for Formulation B compared to the control formulation, which did not contain arginine, suggesting that arginine and particularly arginine in combination with an anionic surfactant such as sodium lauryl sulfate, is useful for inhibiting bacterial attachment: Formula A Formula B Solbrol formulation (positive control)* Control* Mean 0.14180.17360.13270.1932SD 0.01560.03570.02410.0401T Test vs. control (p value) 0.000.320.001.00% reduction vs. control 26.6210.1531.300.00*: not claimed Example 7 - Effect on Availability and Delivery of Antibacterial

[0120] Formulations are prepared using commercial toothpaste formulations comprising 0.3% by weight of triclosan and 0.243% by weight of sodium fluoride, to which is added 0, 1%, 3%, and 5% L-arginine hydrochloride (pH 7.0). Incorporation of L-arginine in the dentifrice enhances the amount of soluble triclosan available from the formulation, from 70% to 80% (1% arginine), 85% (3% arginine), and 95% (5% arginine).

[0121] The artificial mouth model described in the preceding example is used with the modification that the hydroxyapatite disks are treated with the dentifrice slurry before exposure to bacteria. It is shown that the incorporation of L-arginine into the Total ®< formulation enhances delivery of the triclosan to the disks by 50%, with uptake at 30 minutes increasing from approximately 40 micrograms triclosan per disk for the control to 60 micrograms triclosan for the 5% arginine formulation. After 24 hours, the control disk has retained 10 micrograms per disk, compared to 20 micrograms for the 5% arginine formulation, a significant enhancement. This leads directly to an enhancement of the antibacterial effect of the formulation, with a statistically significant reduction of 15% in inhibition of growth of A. viscosus.Example 8 - Mouth rinse formulation

[0122] Mouth wash formulations of the invention are prepared using the following ingredients: Arginine Rinse with Fluoride RAW MATERIALWEIGHT %Deionized Water72.149Glycerin10.00070% Sorbitol10.00095% Ethanol6.000Polysorbate 201.000Sodium benzoate0.110Sodium fluoride0.050Sodium Sacharin0.020Cetylpyridinium chloride0.050Phosphoric acid 85%0.120L-Arginine0.300Flavor0.200Colorants0.001TOTAL100.000pH7.0 Example 9 - Dentifrice formulation comprising precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC)

[0123] A panel of consumer testers trained in testing the sensory attributes of dentifrice formulations was subjected to different dentifrice formulations which were used under doubleblind consumer testing conditions replicating consumer use of dentifrice formulations.

[0124] The panel was asked to use the dentifrice formulations conventionally and then to rate various sensory characteristics. For a base dentifrice formulation comprising precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), the known formulation acted as a placebo control, and corresponding formulations additionally comprising 1, 2, 3 or 5 wt% arginine bicarbonate were also tested. Surprisingly, it was found that the arginine bicarbonate-containing PCC formulations exhibited increases in consumer acceptance for flavor intensity, cooling and ease to foam attributes, and moreover the formulation additionally comprising 2 wt% arginine bicarbonate exhibited increases in overall liking, overall liking of taste, taste while brushing and taste after brushing. In addition, the formulations additionally comprising arginine bicarbonate were perceived as significantly better than the placebo control in all image attributes, including perceived efficacy, mouth / teeth feeling of clean, product suitability, taste and overall product quality.

[0125] In contrast, when formulations having dicalcium phosphate, rather than precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), as the base were tested, the addition of arginine bicarbonate did not exhibit significantly improved sensory characteristics as compared to the same formulation without the addition of arginine bicarbonate.

[0126] The Example shows that the addition of a basic amino acid such as arginine, in particular as bicarbonate, can surprisingly enhance the sensory characteristics of dentifrice formulations, most particularly having a base formulation of precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), when used in an oral care composition of the invention.Comparative example 10 - Basic amino acids other than arginine

[0127] An overnight culture of S. sanguis was grown at 37°C in trypticase soy broth (Becton Dickinson, Sparks, MD). The culture was centrifuged at 5,000 rpm for 5 minutes at 1 milliliter at a time into preweighed tubes in order to accumulate approximately 5 milligrams of wet pellet weight. The pellet was then resuspended into 20 millimolar potassium phosphate buffer (JT Baker, Phillipsburg, NJ), pH 4.0, to simulate a stressed environment for the bacterial cell where ammonia would be produced for survival. The final concentration was 5 milligram per milliliter. To this final concentration, a 5 millimolar final concentration of L-arginine, L-citrulline, or L-ornithine was added along with a 0.1% final concentration of sucrose (VWR, West Chester, PA). This mixture was then incubated at 37°C in a shaking water bath for 30 minutes before ammonia production was determined.

[0128] In order to analyze for ammonia, an Ammonia Assay kit was used from Diagnostic Chemicals Limited (Oxford, CT). The intended use of this specific kit is for the in vitro quantification of ammonia in plasma, but the procedure was modified in order to determine and quantify the ammonia production in plaque and / or bacteria.

[0129] The table below shows the ammonia production values from 6 separate trials using S. sanguis at pH 4.0 as described above. The results confirm that the intermediates produced by the arginine deiminase system can be used to produce ammonia for cell survival. L-Arginine L-Citrulline L-Ornithine Trial # Ammonia (ppm) Ammonia (ppm) Ammonia (ppm) 10.5090.1850.18520.8660.3460.26032.200.3320.04741.620.1940.050.50.2260.18160.6790.9510.135Mean1.060.9510.134

[0130] The Example shows that basic amino acids other than arginine are effective to produce ammonia within the oral cavity, and thus to increase plaque pH when used in a oral care composition of the invention.

Claims

1. An oral care composition comprising a. an effective amount of a salt of a basic amino acid, the salt having a pH in an unbuffered solution of from 6.5 to 7.4; b. an effective amount of a soluble fluoride salt; and c. a particulate material which has a pH in an unbuffered solution of less than about 7.5; wherein the particulate material is dicalcium phosphate; and wherein the salt of the basic amino acid is arginine phosphate.

2. A composition of claim 1, wherein the fluoride salt is selected from sodium fluoride and sodium monofluorophosphate.

3. A composition of claim 1 or claim 2, which is a dentifrice comprising (i) arginine phosphate, (ii) dicalcium phosphate dihydrate, and (iii) sodium monofluorophosphate.

4. A composition of any foregoing claim further comprising an anionic surfactant, optionally sodium lauryl sulfate.

5. A composition of any foregoing claim further comprising an antibacterial agent, optionally triclosan.

6. A composition of claim 5, wherein the antibacterial agent is zinc citrate.

7. A composition of any foregoing claim further comprising an anionic polymer, optionally a copolymer of methyl vinyl ether and maleic anhydride.

8. A composition according to any foregoing claim, wherein a radioactive dentin abrasion (RDA) of the composition is less than 150.

9. A composition according to any foregoing claim in the form of a toothpaste further comprising one or more of water, abrasives, surfactants, foaming agents, vitamins, polymers, enzymes, humectants, thickeners, antimicrobial agents, preservatives, flavorings, colorings and / or combinations thereof.

10. A method for preparing an oral care composition comprising a. forming a premix by combining a basic amino acid with an acid and / or salt thereof to obtain a pH of from 6 to 7.3, and b. combining the premix with other ingredients of the formulation, including a soluble fluoride salt and a calcium phosphate salt; wherein the basic amino acid is arginine, and wherein the acid is phosphoric acid.

11. An oral care composition of any of claims 1 to 9 for use in a method of: a. treating or preventing dental caries, b. treating or preventing enamel lesions, c. treating or preventing demineralization of the teeth, d. treating hypersensitivity of the teeth, e. treating or preventing gingivitis, f. preventing microbial biofilm formation in the oral cavity, g. preventing plaque accumulation; and / or h. treating or preventing erosion, which method comprises applying an effective amount of the oral care composition to an oral cavity.

12. The composition for use according to claim 11, wherein the method is to reduce or inhibit formation of dental caries.