A toothpaste composition

Abstract

The invention relates to a toothpaste composition comprising, an abrasive agent, an antibacterial agent, and an enamel protection agent; use of such a toothpaste composition; and uses of one or more antibacterial agents in a toothpaste composition, in particular Bacillus subtilis.

Description

[0001] A toothpaste composition

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The invention relates to a toothpaste composition comprising, an abrasive agent, an antibacterial agent, and an enamel protection agent; use of such a toothpaste composition; and uses of one or more antibacterial agents in a toothpaste composition.

[0004] Background art

[0005] Oral hygiene is essential for maintaining dental health and preventing oral diseases such as cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Toothpaste formulations play a vital role in daily oral care routines, helping to remove plaque, stains, and food particles from teeth surfaces. Over time, the demand for toothpaste compositions that offer additional therapeutic benefits, such as antimicrobial action, has increased. This is due to the rising awareness of the impact of oral bacteria on both oral and overall systemic health.

[0006] The presence of harmful bacteria in the oral cavity is a primary cause of dental plaque and subsequent tooth decay and gum diseases. Conventional toothpaste formulations generally contain fluoride to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities, along with abrasive agents, humectants, and flavouring agents. However, there is an increasing need for antibacterial agents that can specifically target pathogenic bacteria without disrupting the balance of beneficial oral microbiota.

[0007] Existing antibacterial toothpastes often rely on chemical agents such as triclosan or chlorhexidine. While these substances are effective in reducing bacterial load, there are concerns about their long-term safety and potential for causing resistance. For instance, triclosan has been associated with environmental concerns and potential hormone disruption, leading to regulatory restrictions in certain regions. Similarly, chlorhexidine, while potent, may cause staining of teeth and alteration of taste perception with prolonged use. As a result, there is a growing interest in developing alternative antibacterial toothpaste compositions that are both safe for daily use and effective in controlling oral pathogens. These formulations should provide broad-spectrum antibacterial activity while minimizing adverse effects such as tooth staining, taste alteration, or disruption of the oral microbiome. Additionally, there is a need for toothpastes that incorporate natural or biocompatible antibacterial agents to cater to consumers seeking safer, more eco-friendly oral care products.

[0008] It is hence an object of the present invention to provide a toothpaste composition the overcomes the above problems.

[0009] Summary

[0010] The description herein of any aspect or embodiment of the invention using terms such as “comprising”, “having,” “including,” or “containing” with reference to an element or elements is intended to provide support for a similar aspect or embodiment of the invention that “consists of”, “consists essentially of”, or “substantially comprises” that particular element or elements, unless otherwise stated or clearly contradicted by context, e.g. a composition described herein as comprising a particular element should be understood as also describing a composition consisting of that element, unless otherwise stated or clearly contradicted by context. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises," "comprising," "includes" and / or "including," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0011] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined in the present specification. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms, including “at least one,” unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. “At least one” is not to be construed as limiting “a” or “an.”

[0012] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[0013] The present invention addresses these challenges by providing a novel antibacterial toothpaste composition that offers enhanced efficacy in reducing harmful oral bacteria while maintaining overall oral health. The composition is designed to be safe for regular use, environmentally friendly, and free from the drawbacks associated with conventional antibacterial agents; thus, disclosed herein in a first aspect is a toothpaste composition comprising: an abrasive agent in an amount from 1 % to 10% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition; an antibacterial agent, wherein the antibacterial agent comprises Bacillus subtilis and wherein Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition; and an enamel protection agent in an amount from 0.1 % to 10% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the abrasive agent is silicon dioxide. In one or more embodiments the abrasive agent is a combination of at least silicon dioxide and sodium bicarbonate.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the enamel protection agent is hydroxyapatite. Hydroxyapatite can further contribute to the prevention of carries.

[0016] Disclosed herein in a second aspect is a toothpaste composition comprising: an abrasive agent in an amount from 1 % to 10% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 1.5% to 9.5%, such as 2.0% to 9.0 %, such as 2.5% to 8.5%, or such as 4.5% to 6.5%; an antibacterial agent, wherein the antibacterial agent comprises Bacillus subtilis and wherein Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 0.00002% to 0.0007%, or such as 0.00005% to 0.0005%; and an enamel protection agent in an amount from 0.1 % to 10% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 0.5% to 8.5%, such as 1 % to 7%, such as 2% to 6%, or such as 3% to 5%.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the abrasive agent is silicon dioxide. In one or more embodiments, the enamel protection agent is hydroxyapatite.

[0018] Disclosed herein in a third aspect is a use of a toothpaste composition according to the first or second aspects as a toothpaste in dental care.

[0019] Disclosed herein in a fourth aspect is a use of Bacillus subtilis as an antibacterial agent in a toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments the Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0020] Disclosed herein in a fifth aspect is a use of a combination of Bacillus subtilis and lactoferrin as antibacterial agents in a toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, lactoferrin is in an amount from 0.5% to 2.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition and wherein Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0021] Disclosed herein in another aspect is a toothpaste composition according to the first or second aspects for use in dental care.

[0022] Disclosed herein in a further aspect is Bacillus subtilis for use in dental care.

[0023] Disclosed herein in another aspect is Bacillus subtilis as an antibacterial agent in a toothpaste composition for use in dental care. In one or more embodiments the Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. Disclosed herein in another aspect is a combination of Bacillus subtilis and lactoferrin for use in dental care.

[0024] Disclosed herein in another aspect is a combination of Bacillus subtilis and lactoferrin as antibacterial agents in a toothpaste composition for use in dental care. In one or more embodiments, lactoferrin is in an amount from 0.5% to 2.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition and wherein Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0025] Effects and features of the second to fifth aspects are to a large extent analogous to those described above in connection with the first aspect. Embodiments mentioned in relation to the first aspect are largely compatible with the second to fifth aspects.

[0026] The present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description given below. The detailed description and specific examples disclose preferred embodiments of the disclosure by way of illustration only. Those skilled in the art understand from guidance in the detailed description that changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the disclosure.

[0027] Detailed description

[0028] Disclosed herein is a toothpaste composition comprising, an abrasive agent, an antibacterial agent, and an enamel protection agent; use of such a toothpaste composition; and uses of one or more antibacterial agents in a toothpaste composition.

[0029] The present invention hereby addresses the challenges of providing an antibacterial toothpaste composition that offers enhanced efficacy in reducing harmful oral bacteria while maintaining overall oral health. The composition is designed to be safe for regular use, environmentally friendly, and free from the drawbacks associated with conventional antibacterial agents. The abrasive agent as disclosed herein is in a concentration sufficient to aid in the removal of plaque and surface stains. In one or more embodiments, the abrasive agent is in an amount from 1 % to 10% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the abrasive agent is in an amount from 1.5% to 9.5%. In one or more embodiments, the abrasive agent is in an amount from 2.0% to 9.0%. In one or more embodiments, the abrasive agent is in an amount from 2.5% to 8.5%. In one or more embodiments, the abrasive agent is in an amount from 4.5% to 6.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the abrasive agent is in an amount from 5.0% to 6.0% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, the abrasive agent being silicon dioxide. If silicon dioxide is chosen as the abrasive agent, there is further a synergistic effect between silicon dioxide and Bacillus subtilis.

[0030] The presence of an antibacterial agent is included to reduce harmful oral bacteria, as disclosed. The antibacterial agent can be a mixture of agents, or a composition of such, but the antibacterial agent at least comprises the probiotic bacteria Bacillus subtilis. In one or more embodiments, Bacillus subtilis is in an amount from 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, Bacillus subtilis is in an amount from 0.00007% to 0.0007% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, Bacillus subtilis is in an amount from 0.00005% to 0.0005% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0031] As the toothpaste uses Bacillus subtilis as the antibacterial agent, this further means that the toothpaste composition is not using neither of triclosan, chlorhexidine, or cetylpyridinium chloride as an antibacterial agent, hence, the composition is free from such; thus, in one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition does not comprise triclosan, chlorhexidine, and / or cetylpyridinium chloride.

[0032] The Bacillus subtilis is selected from any of the strains comprising LA13030, which is a German Bacillus subtilis strain; CU1 , which is a French Bacillus Subtilis strain; HU58 which is an Indian / English Bacillus subtilis strain; DE 111 , which is a US Bacillus subtilis strain; DSM 15544, which is a Japanese Bacillus subtilis strain; PXN 21 which is an English Bacillus subtilis strain; Rosell-179 which is a Canadian bacillus Subtilis strain; and / or DSM 33619, which is also known under the designation DSM 21097. Hence, in one or more embodiments, the Bacillus subtilis is selected from one or more of the strains LA13030, HU58, DE 111 , DSM 15544, PXN 21 , Rosell-179, DSM 33619. In one or more embodiments, the Bacillus subtilis strain is at least DSM 33619.

[0033] Other Bacillus subtilis strains can also be applied.

[0034] The enamel protection agent helps to remineralize and strengthen enamel, reduce tooth sensitivity, protect against cavities, inhibit plaque formation, and provide a mild whitening effect. This also means that the toothpaste can be made without the use of fluoride as an enamel protection agent. In one or more embodiments, the enamel protection agent is selected from at least hydroxyapatite. In one or more embodiments, the enamel protection agent in an amount from 0.1 % to 10% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the enamel protection agent in an amount from 0.5% to 8.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the enamel protection agent in an amount from 1 % to 7% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the enamel protection agent in an amount from 2% to 6% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the enamel protection agent in an amount from 3% to 5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, the antibacterial agent is selected as at least a combination of lactoferrin and Bacillus subtilis. In one or more embodiments, lactoferrin is in an amount from 0.1 % to 3.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, lactoferrin is in an amount from 0.5% to 3.0% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, lactoferrin is in an amount from 0.5% to 2.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0036] If the toothpaste uses a combination of lactoferrin and Bacillus subtilis as the antibacterial agent, this further means that the toothpaste composition is not using neither of triclosan, chlorhexidine, or cetylpyridinium chloride as an antibacterial agent, hence, the composition is free from such.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the antibacterial agent is selected as at least a combination of lactoferrin and Bacillus subtilis, wherein lactoferrin is in an amount from 0.5% to 2.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 1.0% to 2.0%, and wherein Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 0.00005% to 0.0005%.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition does not contain a fluoride compound. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition does not contain a fluoride compound, wherein the fluoride compound is selected from one or more of sodium fluoride, stannous fluoride, or sodium monofluorophosphate. This means that the toothpaste is fluoride-free. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition does not contain a fluoride compound.

[0039] One or more humectants may further be included into the toothpaste composition to retain moisture and to improve the texture, if needed; hence, in one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises a humectant. In one or more embodiments, the humectant is selected from at least one or more of glycerin, sorbitol, or polyethylene glycol. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste further comprises a humectant in an amount from 4% to 16% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste further comprises a humectant in an amount from 6% to 14% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste further comprises a humectant in an amount from 7% to 13% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste further comprises a humectant in an amount from 8% to 12% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0040] One or more thickening agents may further be included into the toothpaste composition to provide the desired consistency, if needed. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more thickening agents. In one or more embodiments, the thickening agent is selected from at least one or more of carboxymethyl cellulose, xanthan gum, or carrageenan. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises a thickening agent in an amount from 0.2% to 1.4% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises a thickening agent in an amount from 0.4% to 1.2% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises a thickening agent in an amount from 0.5% to 1.1 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises a thickening agent in an amount from 0.6% to 1 .0% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0041] Additionally, and further, one or more surfactants may be included to enhance foaming and distribution of the toothpaste composition, if needed; hence, in one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more surfactants. In one or more embodiment, the surfactant is selected from at least one or more of sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium cocoyl glutamate. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition is free from surfactants and / or foaming agents. In one or more embodiments, the surfactant is in an amount from 0% to 10% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the surfactant is in an amount from 0% to 5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the surfactant is in an amount from 0% to 2% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0042] The toothpaste composition may further comprise one or more flavouring agents to improve the taste of the composition, if needed. The flavouring agents may also be selected from agents giving other advantages besides only flavour.

[0043] In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more flavouring agents. In one or more embodiments, the flavouring agent is selected from at least one or more of peppermint, spearmint, menthol, rosemary extract, or rosemary oil. Using rosemary extract or oil in a toothpaste as one of the flavouring agents is beneficial as rosemary oil or extract also has an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, helps to prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease, acts as an antioxidant, provides mild pain relief, and helps maintain healthy gums. Further, it is a natural ingredient, so it appeals to those seeking chemical-free oral care options. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition comprises rosemary extract as a preservative.

[0044] Using peppermint, such as peppermint oil further has an antibacterial, antimicrobial and antiviral effect and reduces plaque adhesion.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises a flavouring agent in an amount from 0.05% to 1.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises a flavouring agent in an amount from 0.1 % to 1.3% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises a flavouring agent in an amount from 0.2% to 1.1 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0046] In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition has a pH between 7 and 10. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition has a pH between 8 and 9. The toothpaste as disclosed herein may be slightly alkaline, which restores the pH value of the oral flora.

[0047] To maintain the pH an alkaline agent may be added. Further, an alkaline agent may help to neutralize acids in the mouth and maintaining a balanced pH and protecting the teeth from acid erosion caused by food, drinks, or bacterial activity. By reducing the acidity in the mouth, calcium carbonate and / or sodium bicarbonate helps to protect enamel from weakening and damage. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more alkaline agents. In one or more embodiments, the one or more alkaline agents is selected from at least one or more of calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more alkaline agents in an amount from 0.2% to 26.0% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more alkaline agents in an amount from 0.5% to 24.0% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more alkaline agents in an amount from 1 .0% to 22.0% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more alkaline agents in an amount from 2.0% to 20.0% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, toothpaste composition has a pH between 7 and 10, such as between 8 and 9 and wherein the toothpaste composition further comprises an alkaline agent.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises water in an amount from 30% to 47% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises water in an amount from 33% to 44% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises water in an amount from 35% to 42% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises water in an amount from 37% to 40% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0050] In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more medium-chain triglyceride oil compositions. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more medium-chain triglyceride oil compositions in an amount from 1 % to 7% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more medium-chain triglyceride oil compositions in an amount from 3% to 5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. Medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil compositions may be beneficial in toothpaste as they may assist in providing antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and plaque-reducing benefits, while also offering mild whitening, moisturizing, and oral detoxification properties.

[0051] As disclosed herein, medium-chain triglycerides are mixtures which usually contain 50- 65% by weight of caprylic acid (C8) and 30-45% by weight of capric acid (C10) as main components. Other ingredients such as caproic acid (C6), lauric acid (C12) and myristic acid (C14) may be present in small amounts. Typical medium-chain triglycerides known from the prior art and commercially available are known, for example, under the trade names Mygliol 812® from Sasol, Myritol 312® from Cognis and Tegosoft® CT from Evonik.

[0052] In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises xylitol. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises xylitol in an amount from 14% to 20% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises xylitol in an amount from 16% to 18% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0053] Xylitol may be beneficial to use in toothpaste as it helps prevent tooth decay, reduces plaque, and promotes the remineralization of enamel by inhibiting harmful bacteria and stimulating saliva production. It also helps to neutralize acids, freshen breath, and is a safe option for diabetics.

[0054] In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises sodium ascorbate. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises sodium ascorbate in an amount from 0.1 % to 2.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises sodium ascorbate in an amount from 0.3% to 2.0% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, the toothpaste composition further comprises sodium ascorbate in an amount from 0.5% to 1 .5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. Sodium ascorbate may be beneficial to use in toothpaste as it has antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects that help improve gum health, support collagen production, and promote wound healing. It further strengthens both the gums and the underlying tooth structure, helps reduce plaque and tartar formation, and supports oral immunity. It is an effective ingredient for maintaining overall oral health, particularly for individuals with gum issues or those prone to inflammation.

[0055] In one or more embodiments, Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition. In one or more embodiments, lactoferrin is in an amount from 0.5% to 2.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition and wherein Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

[0056] When describing the embodiments, the combinations and permutations of all possible embodiments have not been explicitly described. Nevertheless, the mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims or described in different embodiments does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. The present invention envisages all possible combinations and permutations of the described embodiments.

[0057] The present invention is further illustrated by the following examples, which are not to be construed as limiting the scope of protection. The features disclosed in the foregoing description and in the following examples may, both separately or in any combination thereof, be material for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

[0058] Example

[0059] A toothpaste composition falling within the above disclosure was produced with the following recipe (table 1):

[0060] The toothpaste according to table 1 was used by participants to brush their teeth. After that the participants were asked questions which they graded from 1 to 10, wherein 1 is the lowest score and 10 is the highest score. The meaning of each grade is also provided for every table 2 to table 4.

[0061] The participants were asked the following questions: A. How clean does your mouth feel after brushing your teeth?

[0062] Table 2

[0063] 1 : not very clean; 2: not quite clean; 3: not clean; 4: neither; 6: fairly clean; 7: clean; 8: quite clean;

[0064] 9: very clean; 10: extremely clean

[0065] B. How long does the fresh feeling last after brushing your teeth?

[0066] Table 3

[0067] 1 : not very long; 2: not quite long; 3: not long; 4: neither; 6: fairly long; 7: long; 8: quite long; 9: very long; 10: extremely long

[0068] C. How refreshed does your mouth feel after brushing your teeth?

[0069] Table 4

[0070] 1 : not very refreshed; 2: not quite refreshed; 3: not refreshed; 4: neither; 6: fairly refreshed; 7: refreshed; 8: quite refreshed; 9: very refreshed; 10: extremely refreshed

[0071] As can be derived from tables 2 to 4 most participants rated the cleanliness and the freshness after brushing their teeth positively. The rating for the long-lasting effect of the feeling of freshness and cleanliness was also above average. The long-lasting feeling of freshness and cleanliness can i.a. be attributed to the combination of Bacillus subtilis and lactoferrin.

[0072] The toothpaste composition was tested for various aspects resulting in an overall good score in relation to the following parameters: appearance, dispensability, feeling while brushing teeth, fresh aftertaste, foaming, refreshing feeling, clean feeling after use.

Claims

Claims1 . A toothpaste composition comprising: an abrasive agent in an amount from 1 % to 10% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 2.5% to 8.5, or such as 4.5% to 6.5%, the abrasive agent preferably being silicon dioxide; an antibacterial agent, wherein the antibacterial agent comprises Bacillus subtilis and wherein Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 0.00005% to 0.0005%; and an enamel protection agent in an amount from 0.1 % to 10% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 1 % to 7%, or such as 3% to 5%, the enamel protection agent preferably being hydroxyapatite.

2. The toothpaste composition according to claim 1 , wherein the antibacterial agent is selected as at least a combination of lactoferrin and Bacillus subtilis, wherein lactoferrin is in an amount from 0.5% to 2.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 1.0% to 2.0%, and wherein Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 0.00005% to 0.0005%.

3. The toothpaste composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the toothpaste composition does not contain a fluoride compound, wherein the fluoride compound is selected from one or more of sodium fluoride, stannous fluoride, or sodium monofluorophosphate.

4. The toothpaste composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the toothpaste composition further comprises a humectant in an amount from 4% to 16% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 6% to 14%, or such as 8% to 12%, wherein the humectant is selected from one or more of glycerin, sorbitol, or polyethylene glycol.

5. The toothpaste composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the toothpaste composition further comprises a thickening agent in an amount from 0.2% to 1 .4% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 0.4% to 1.2%, or such as 0.6% to 1.0%, wherein the thickening agent is selected from one or more of carboxymethyl cellulose, xanthan gum, or carrageenan.

6. The toothpaste composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the toothpaste composition further comprises a flavouring agent in an amount from 0.05% to 1.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 0.1 % to 1.3% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, or such as 0.2% to 1.1 %, wherein the flavouring agent is selected from one or more of peppermint, spearmint, menthol, rosemary extract, and / or rosemary oil.

7. The toothpaste composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said toothpaste composition has a pH between 7 and 10, such as between 8 and 9, and / or wherein the toothpaste composition further comprises an alkaline agent in an amount from 0.5% to 24.0% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as 1.0% to 22.0%, or such as 2.0% to 20.0%, wherein the alkaline agent is selected from one or more of calcium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate.

8. The toothpaste composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the toothpaste composition further comprises one or more medium-chain triglyceride oil compositions in an amount from 1 % to 7% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as from 3% to 5%.

9. The toothpaste composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the toothpaste composition further comprises xylitol in an amount from 14% to 20% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition, such as from 16% to 18%.

10. The toothpaste composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the toothpaste composition further comprises sodium ascorbate in an amount from 0.5% to 1 .5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.11 . Use of a toothpaste composition according to any one of the preceding claims as a toothpaste in dental care.

12. Use of Bacillus subtilis as an antibacterial agent in a toothpaste composition.

13. Use according to claim 12, wherein the Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

14. Use of a combination of Bacillus subtilis and lactoferrin as antibacterial agents in a toothpaste composition.

15. Use according to claim 14, wherein lactoferrin is in an amount from 0.5% to 2.5% by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition and wherein Bacillus subtilis is in an amount of 0.00001 % to 0.001 % by weight compared to the total weight of the toothpaste composition.

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