Oral care composiion

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to oral care compositions, and more specifically to oral care compositions usable for cleaning the oral cavity.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Oral hygiene compositions fall into two main categories: dentifrices, and mouthwashes or rinses. Dentifrices generally contain an insoluble dentally acceptable abrasive which is utilized to physically cleanse the surface of the teeth. Dentifrices are generally provided in the form of solid or pasty preparations which can be readily applied to a toothbrush, for example, powders, pastes or viscous gels.

[0003] Known mouthwash or mouth rinse compositions usually are solutions containing small amounts of colorings, flavorings and antibacterial or other active ingredients. These solutions have found use as breath-freshening, anti-cavity, antiseptic and/or anti-plaque mouth rinses, or gargle preparations and are commonly used in addition to conventional tooth cleansing dentifrices.

[0004] While mouth rinses and abrasive dentifrices have been produced as separate products for many years, a satisfactory form of combined product is desired in which an effective amount of abrasive is maintained in an acceptable stable suspension having a sufficiently low viscosity that the preparation can be swished between and around teeth.

[0005] There remains, therefore, a need for oral compositions, combining the benefits of both a toothpaste and a mouthwash.

[0006] Documents US 5 328 682 A, US 2003/118 522 A1, US 5 628 985 A, JP 2009 084 277 A and EP 2 281 547 A2 disclose polymer stabilised liquid oral hygiene compositions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention relates to oral care compositions consisting essentially of:

a) from 5% to about 10% by weight of a insoluble particulate such as a nonabrasive particle or dentally acceptable abrasive;

b) from 0.01% to 5% by weight of suspending polymer which is a mixture of 1) xanthan gum with 2) microcrystalline cellulose; a microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixture; a mixture of microcrystalline cellulose and a microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixture; or mixtures of various microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixtures;

c) from 0.1% to 5% of a surfactant system, wherein the surfactant system comprises a combination of alkyl sarcosines, alkyl polyglucosides and alkylamidopropyl betaine surfactants; and

d) at least 45% of a liquid carrier,

wherein said composition has a tan delta of less than 1 at frequencies 0.1 to 100 rads^-1 as measured by an RFSII rheometer with couette geometry at a temperature of 25°C.

[0008] In other embodiments, the present invention relates to oral care compositions consisting of:

a) from 5% to 10% by weight of a insoluble particulate such as a nonabrasive particle or dentally acceptable abrasive;

b) from 0.01% to 5% by weight of suspending polymer which is a mixture of 1) xanthan gum with 2) microcrystalline cellulose; a microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixture; a mixture of microcrystalline cellulose and a microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixture; or mixtures of various microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixtures;

c) from 0.1% to 5% of a surfactant system, wherein the surfactant system comprises a combination of alkyl sarcosines, alkyl polyglucosides and alkylamidopropyl betaine surfactants; and

d) at least 45% of a liquid carrier,

wherein said composition has a tan delta of less than 1 at frequencies 0.1 to 100 rads^-1 as measured by an RFSII rheometer with couette geometry at a temperature of 25°C.

[0009] In addition, other embodiments of the present invention relate to oral care compositions as defined in the claims for use in a method of cleaning the oral cavity where an effective amount of the oral care compositions of the present invention are: i) introduced into the oral cavity (such as by sipping a quantity of the composition), ii) swished around the oral cavity for a sufficient amount of time to coat the teeth and mucosal surfaces of the oral cavity and iii) a portion, substantial portion or the bulk of the composition being expelled, swallowed or, otherwise removed from the oral cavity. As used herein the term "bulk of the composition" means that portion of the composition which is not retained by the hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity. Optionally, the teeth can be brushed with a toothbrush if so desired.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The oral care compositions of the present invention can comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the essential elements and limitations of the invention described herein, as well any of the additional or optional ingredients, components, or limitations described herein.

[0011] The term "comprising" (and its grammatical variations) as used herein is used in the inclusive sense of "having" or "including" and not in the exclusive sense of "consisting only of' The terms "a" and "the" as used herein are understood to encompass the plural as well as the singular.

[0012] All percentages, parts and ratios are based upon the total weight of the composition of the present invention, unless otherwise specified. All such weights as they pertain to the listed ingredients are based on the active level and, therefore, do not include carriers or by-products that may be included in commercially available materials, unless otherwise specified.

[0013] Unless indicated otherwise, all measurements and tests described herein are conducted at a temperature of 25°C (or about 25°C).

[0014] The term "safe and effective amount" as used herein means an amount of a compound or composition such as a topical or system active sufficient to significantly induce a positive benefit, for example, an antimicrobial effect, but low enough to avoid serious side effects, i.e., to provide a reasonable benefit to risk ratio, within the scope of sound judgment of the skilled artisan.

[0015] As used herein the phrase "dentally acceptable" means the compound, substance or device may be administered to or into the oral cavity and/or surfaces of the oral cavity, including the teeth and gums, without substantial harmful effects to the oral cavity and/or its surfaces.

[0016] As used herein the terms "formulation" and "composition" are used interchangeably.

[0017] All viscosity measurements are obtained using an RFSII rheometer (TA Instruments, New Castle, DE) with couette geometry.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the present invention is a liquid gel dentifrice having rheological properties such that the liquid gel dentifrice is swishable in the mouth.

[0019] The oral care compositions of the present invention, including the essential and optional components thereof, are described in detail hereinafter.

Insoluble Particulate

[0020] In certain embodiments, the oral care compositions of the present invention comprise a safe and effective amount of a water insoluble particulate. The water insoluble particulate can be an abrasive particle (such as a dentally acceptable abrasive) or non-abrasive particulate.
In certain embodiments, abrasive particles include, but are not limited to, water insoluble calcium salts such as calcium carbonate, and various calcium phosphates, alumina, silica, synthetic resins and mixtures thereof. In further embodiments, the dentally acceptable abrasive is selected from the group consisting of water insoluble calcium salts, alumina, silica, synthetic resins and mixtures thereof. Suitable dentally acceptable abrasives may generally be defined as those having a radioactive dentine abrasion value (RDA) of from about 30 to about 250 at the concentrations used in the compositions of the present invention. In certain embodiments, abrasives are non-crystalline, hydrated, silica abrasives, particularly in the form of precipitated silica or milled silica gels available commercially, for example, under the trade names ZEODENT (J. M. Huber Corporation, Edison, NJ), and SYLODENT (W.R. Grace & Co., New York, NY), respectively. In certain embodiments, the dentally acceptable abrasive is precipitated or milled silica. Tthe compositions according to the present invention comprise from 5% to 10% by weight of the abrasive.

[0021] Alternatively, the insoluble particulate is a non-abrasive particulate which is visible to the unaided eye and stable in the compositions of the present invention.

[0022] The non-abrasive particulate can be of any size, shape, or color, according to the desired characteristic of the product, so long as it is distinctively detected as an individual particle by the unaided eye. The non-abrasive particulates will typically have the shape of a small round or substantially round ball, however, platelet or rod-shaped configurations are also contemplated herein. Generally, a non-abrasive particulate has an average diameter of from 50 µm to 5000 µm, optionally from 100 µm to 3000 µm, or optionally, from 300 µm to 1000 µm. By the terms "stable" and/or "stability", it is meant that the abrasive or non-abrasive particulates are not disintegrated, agglomerated, or separated under normal shelf conditions. In certain embodiments, the terms "stable" and/or "stability" further mean that the compositions of present invention contain no visible (to the unaided eye) signs of sedimentation of the insoluble particulates after 8 weeks, optionally 26 weeks, optionally 52 weeks, at room temperature.

[0023] The non-abrasive particulates herein are typically incorporated in the present compositions at levels of from 0.01% to 25%, optionally, from 0.01% to 5%, or optionally, from 0.05% to 3%, by weight of the composition.

[0024] The non-abrasive particulate herein will typically comprise a structural material and/or, optionally, an encompassed material.

[0025] The structural material provides a certain strength to the non-abrasive particulates so that they retain their distinctively detectable structure in the compositions of the present invention under normal shelf conditions. In one embodiment, the structural material further can be broken and disintegrated with very little shear on the teeth, tongue or oral mucosa upon use.

[0026] The non-abrasive particulates can be solid or liquid, filled or un-filled, as long as they are stable in the compositions of the present invention. The structural material used for making the non-abrasive particulates varies depending on the compatibility with other components, as well as material, if any, to be encompassed in the non-abrasive particulates. Exemplary materials for making the non-abrasive particulates herein include: polysaccharide and saccharide derivatives such as crystalline cellulose, cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate butyrate, cellulose acetate phthalate, cellulose nitrate, ethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose phthalate, methyl cellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, gum acacia (gum arabic), agar, agarose, maltodextrin, sodium alginate, calcium alginate, dextran, starch, galactose, glucosamine, cyclodextrin, chitin, amylose, amylopectin, glycogen, laminaran, lichenan, curdlan, inulin, levan, pectin, mannan, xylan, alginic acid, arabic acid, glucommannan, agarose, agaropectin, prophyran, carrageenen, fucoidan, glycosaminoglycan, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin, peptidoglycan, lipopolysaccharide, guar gum, starch, and starch derivatives; oligosaccharides such as sucrose, lactose, maltose, uronic acid, muramic acid, cellobiose, isomaltose, planteose, melezitose, gentianose, maltotriose, stachyose, glucoside and polyglucoside; monosaccharides such as glucose, fructose, and mannose; synthetic polymers such as acrylic polymers and copolymers including polyacrylamide, poly(alkyl cyanoacrylate), and poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), and carboxyvinyl polymer, polyamide, poly(methyl vinyl ether-maleic anhydride), poly(adipyl-L-lysine), polycarbonate, polyterephthalamide, polyvinyl acetate phthalate, poly(terephthaloyl-L-lysine), polyarylsulfone, poly(methylmethacrylate), poly(ε-caprolactone), polyvinylpyrrolidone, polydimethylsiloxane, polyoxyethylene, polyester, polyglycolic acid, polylactic acid, polyglutamic acid, polylysine, polystyrene, poly(styrene-acrylonitrile), polyimide, and poly(vinyl alcohol); and other material such as fat, fatty acid, fatty alcohol, milk solids, molasses, gelatin, gluten, albumin, shellac, caseinate, bees wax, carnauba wax, spermaceti wax, hydrogenated tallow, glycerol monopalmitate, glycerol dipalmitate, hydrogenated castor oil, glycerol monostearate, glycerol distearate, glycerol tristearate, 12-hydroxystearyl alcohol, protein, and protein derivatives; and mixtures thereof. Components herein may be described in other sections as useful components for the present composition. In certain embodiments, the components as described in this section form the structure of the non-abrasive particulates so as to not be substantially dissolved or dispersed from the particulates and into the compositions of the present invention under normal shelf conditions.

[0027] In other embodiments, the structural material herein comprises components selected from the group consisting of polysaccharides and their derivatives, saccharides and their derivatives, oligosaccharides, monosaccharides, and mixtures thereof, or optionally, comprises components are having various degrees of water solubility. In some embodiments, the structural material comprises lactose, cellulose, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose.

[0028] Suitable non-abrasive particulates also include organogel particles as described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,797,683. Non-abrasive particulates that are organogel particles typically comprise a structural material selected from poloxamer compounds (i.e. polyoxypropylene-polyoxyethylene block copolymer such as Pluronic F-127 available from BASF), waxes (e.g., beeswax, paraffin, water-insoluble wax, carbon-based wax, silicone wax, microcrystalline wax, etc.), triglycerides, acid triglycerides, polymers, fluoroalkyl (meth)acrylate polymers and copolymers, acrylate polymers, ethylene/acrylate copolymers, polyethylene, polypropylene polymers and copolymers, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, fatty acid esters, fatty acid ethers, fatty acid amides, alkylene polyhydric alcohols, fatty acid amide of an alkanolamine, glyceryl monostearate, (aryl-substituted)sugars, dibenzyl sorbitol (or mannitoal, rabbitol, etc.), condensates and precondensates of lower monohydric alcohols, trihydroic alcohols, lower polyglycols, propylene/ethylene polycondensates, and the like. Optionally, structural material for non-abrasive particulates that are organogel particles include beeswax, carnauba wax, low molecular weight ethylene homopolymers (e.g. Polywax 500, Polywax 1000, or Polywax 2000 polyethylene materials available from Baker Petrolite Corp.), or paraffin wax.

[0029] The non-abrasive particulates herein may encompass, contain, or be filled with an encompassed material. Such encompassed material can be water soluble or water insoluble. Suitable encompassed materials include benefit agents as described herein such as: oral care actives, vitamins, pigments, dyes, antimicrobial agents, chelating agents, optical brighteners, flavors, perfumes, humectants, and mixtures thereof. The encompassed materials herein are substantially retained within the non-abrasive particulates, and are substantially not dissolved from the particulates and into the compositions of the present composition under normal shelf conditions.

[0030] Particularly useful commercially available non-abrasive particulates herein are those with tradenames Unisphere and Unicerin available from Induchem AG (Switzerland), and Confetti Dermal Essentials available from United-Guardian Inc. (NY, USA). Unisphere and Unicerin particles are made of microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, lactose, vitamins, pigments, and proteins. Upon use, the Unisphere and Unicerin particles can be disintegrated with very little shear and with practically no resistance, and readily disperse in the compositions of the present invention.

[0031] Suitable non-abrasive particulates for incorporation in the present compositions are described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,797,683 (organogel particles); U.S. Pat. No. 6,045,813 (rupturable beads); U.S. 2004/0047822 A1 (visible capsules); and U.S. Pat. No. 6,106,815 (capsulated or particulated oily substances).

[0032] In certain embodiments, the abrasive and/or nonabrasive particles have a density different or, optionally, substantially different from the carrier in which it is formulated.

Suspending Agent

[0033] In certain embodiments, the oral care compositions according to the present invention also contain at least one suspending polymer as defined in the claims, suitable for maintaining solid particles (such as abrasives) in a substantially stable suspension during storage without over-thickening the composition.
The suspending polymer is a mixture of 1) xanthan gum with 2) microcrystalline cellulose; a microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixture; a mixture of microcrystalline cellulose and a microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixture; or mixtures of microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixtures

[0034] Suitable suspending agents include xanthan, available commercially for example under the trade names, respectively, KELCOGEL and KELTROL (CP Kelco U.S., Inc. Atlanta, GA). In specific embodiments the xanthan gum has the following specifications:

Particle Size	As measured using Tyler Standard Screen Scale
-80 mesh (180 µm)	≥ 95% through
Loss on Drying	≤ 15.0%
Solution pH
-1% gum in deionized water	from 6.0 to 8.0
Transmittance	≥ 85%
-1% gum in deionized water (600 nm)
Pyruvic Acid	≥ 1.5%
Assay	from 91.0% to 108.0% xanthan gum
Ash	from 6.5% to 16.0%
Heavy Metals	≤ 10.0 mg/kg (ppm)
Lead	≤ 2.0 mg/kg (ppm)
Arsenic	≤ 2.0 mg/kg (ppm)
Mercury	≤ 1.0 mg/kg (ppm)
Cadmium	≤ 1.0 mg/kg (ppm)
Isopropyl Alcohol	≤ 500 mg/kg (ppm)
Cellulase Activity	< 0.02 Absorbance Units (AU)
Bacteria*
-48 hours	≤ 100 cfu/g
- 5 days	≤ 500 cfu/g
Fungal (Yeast and Mold) Count	≤ 100 cfu/g
Coliform	Negative by Most Probable Number (MPN)
Escherichia coli	Not present in 25 g
Salmonella spp.	Not present in 25 g
Staphylococcus aureus	Not present in 1.0 g
Pseudomonas aeruginosa	Not present in 1.0 g

*Total viable mesophilic aerobic count

[0035] Xanthan gums falling within the scope of such specifications include, but are not limited to, Keltrol CG-T xanthan gum as described in CP Kelco's product data sheet document no. 385-X (effective date 06 December 2006).

[0036] Suitable suspending agents also include microcrystalline cellulose or a mixture of microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose sodium. Microcrystalline cellulose and mixtures of microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose sodium (hereinafter MCC/CMC) are available from FMC Corporation (Philadelphia, PA) under the trade name Avicel®. In certain embodiments, such mixtures have a ratio of microcrystalline cellulose to carboxymethylcellulose sodium of from 20:1 to abut 1:1, optionally, from 15:1 to 3:1, or optionally, from 10:1 to 5:1.

[0037] In specific embodiments, microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose sodium is Avicel CL-611 (85% microcrystalline cellulose with 70% colloidal content, co-processed with 15% low viscosity carboxymethyl cellulose). Other useful colloidal MCC/CMCs include, but not limited to, Avicel PC-611 (85% microcrystalline cellulose with 70% colloidal content, co-processed with 15% low viscosity carboxymethyl cellulose); Avicel® RC 581 (89% microcrystalline cellulose with 70% colloidal content, co-processed with 11% medium viscosity carboxymethyl cellulose); Avicel® RC 591 (88% microcrystalline cellulose with 70% colloidal content, co-processed with 12%, 50/50 medium/low viscosity carboxymethyl cellulose); and Avicel® RC 501 (91% microcrystalline cellulose with 70% colloidal content, co-processed with 9% medium viscosity carboxymethyl cellulose). Mixtures of the above MCC/CMC mixtures may also be used.

[0038] The suspending agent is a mixture of 1) xanthan gum with 2) a microcrystalline cellulose; a MCC/CMC mixture; mixtures of the microcrystalline cellulose and MCC/CMC; or mixtures of the various MCC/CMC mixtures.

[0039] In specific embodiments, the ratio of 1) the xanthan gum to 2) the microcrystalline cellulose; MCC/CMC mixture; mixtures of the microcrystalline cellulose and MCC/CMC; or mixtures of the various MCC/CMC mixtures is from 0.5:1 to 25:1, optionally, from 1:1 to 20:1, optionally from 1:1 to 10:1.

[0040] The compositions of the present invention comprise from 0.01 to 5%, optionally from 0.05% to 3%, optionally from 0.05% to 1%, or optionally from 0.05% to 0.5%, by weight of the composition of a suspending agent.

Surfactant System

[0041] Surfactants, which are surface active agents, are incorporated into the compositions of the present invention to aid wetting, to improve the cleansing capability of the compositions, to produce a cosmetically acceptable foam in use, to solubilize flavoring oils when present and to improve the extent and quality of foaming produced by the oral compositions of the present invention.

[0042] The present invention incorporates a surfactant system to provide adequate foam generation and/or consistency. The surfactant system is capable of providing adequate foam generation and/or consistency even after a portion, substantial portion or the bulk of the composition of the present invention is expectorated, swallowed or otherwise removed from the oral cavity, the form being generated from the remaining film of the composition on the teeth, tongue or other oral or mucosal surfaces of the mouth.

[0043] Surfactants suitable for use in the surfactant system are those that are reasonably stable and generate appropriate foam throughout a wide pH range. In certain embodiments, the surfactant is a combination of anionic, nonionic, amphoteric surfactants. Anionic surfactants useful herein include, but are not limited to, sarcosine type surfactants or sarcosinates; taurates such as sodium methyl cocoyl taurate; alkyl sulfates such as sodium trideceth sulfate or sodium lauryl sulfate; sodium lauryl sulfoacetate; sodium lauroyl isethionate; sodium laureth carboxylate; sodium dodecyl benzenesulfonate and mixtures thereof. Many suitable anionic surfactants are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,959, 458, to Agricola, et al.

[0044] Nonionic surfactants which can be used in the compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, compounds produced by the condensation of alkylene oxide groups (hydrophilic in nature) with an organic hydrophobic compound which may be aliphatic or alkyl-aromatic in nature. Examples of suitable nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, alkyl polyglucosides; block copolymers such as ethylene oxide and propylene oxide copolymers e.g. Poloxamers; ethoxylated hydrogenated castor oils available commercially for example under the trade name CRODURET (Croda Inc., Edison, NJ), and/or ethoxylated sorbitan esters such as PEG-80 sorbitan laurate or those available commercially for example under the trade name TWEEN (Croda, Edison, NJ); fatty alcohol ethoxylates; 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 thereof.

[0045] The amphoteric surfactants useful in the present invention include, but are not limited to, derivatives of aliphatic secondary and tertiary amines in which the aliphatic radical can be a straight chain or branched and wherein one of the aliphatic substituents contains from about 8 to about 18 carbon atoms and one contains an anionic water-solubilizing group, e.g., carboxylate, sulfonate, sulfate, phosphate, or phosphonate. Examples of suitable amphoteric surfactants include, but are not limited alkylimino-diproprionates, alkylamphoglycinates (mono or di), alkylamphoproprionates (mono or di), alkylamphoacetates (mono or di), N-alkyl β-aminoproprionic acids, alkylpolyamino carboxylates, phosphorylated imidazolines, alkyl betaines, alkylamido betaines, alkylamidopropyl betaines, alkyl sultaines, alkylamido sultaines, and mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant is selected from the group consisting of alkylamidopropyl betaines, amphoacetates such as sodium lauroamphoacetate and mixtures thereof. Mixtures of any of the above mentioned surfactants can also be employed. A more detailed discussion of anionic, nonionic and amphoteric surfactants can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,087,650 to Lennon; 7,084,104 to Martin et al.; 5,190,747 to Sekiguchi et al.; and 4,051,234, Gieske, et al..

[0046] In some embodiments, it may also be possible to include cationic surfactants. Suitable cationic surfactants include, but are not limited to, cetyl trimethylammonium chloride (CTAB), hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HDTAB), stearyl dimethylbenzylammonium chloride, lauryl dimethylbenzylammonium chloride, cetyl dimethylethylammonium halide, cetyl dimethylbenzylammonium halide, cetyl trimethylammonium halide, dodecyl ethyldimethylammonium halide, lauryl trimethylammonium halide, coconut alkyltrimethylammonium halide, and N,N-C_8-20-dialkyldimethylammonium halide. Other suitable compounds for the cationic surfactant include bis(hydrogenated tallow alkyl) dimethylammonium chloride which is known to adsorb onto the surface with hydrophobic groups oriented away from it, 2-hydroxydodecyl-2-hydroxyethyl dimethyl ammonium chloride and N-octadecyl-N,N',N'-tris-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1,3-diaminopropane dihydrofluoride.

[0047] The surfactant system of the present invention comprises a combination of alkyl sarcosines, alkyl polyglucosides, and alkylamidopropyl betaine surfactants.

[0048] In some embodiments, the anionic surfactant is an alkyl sarcosine which typically has an alkyl group containing from 10 to 24, optionally from 12 to 20, optionally 15 to 18 carbon atoms. Salts can be readily formed by reacting the alkyl sarcosines with an appropriate base, such as sodium, potassium, ammonium hydroxide, monoethanol amine, diethanol amine or triethanol amine. Some representative examples of sodium alkyl sarcosines which can be used include sodium lauroyl sarcosinates, sodium cocoyl sarcosinates, sodium myristol sarcosinates sodium oleoyl sarcosinates sodium stearyl sarcosinates and similar sarcosinates. In specific embodiments, the oral care compositions of the present invention incorporate sodium lauroyl sarcosinate as the sarcosine surfactant. Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate is commercially available from Chattem Chemicals, Inc. as Hamposyl® L-30.

[0049] In some other embodiments, the nonionic surfactant is an alkyl polyglucosides nonionic surfactant. In specific embodiments, the present invention incorporates long chain alkyl polyglucosides. Suitable long chain alkyl polyglucosides include condensation products of (a) a long chain alcohol containing from 6 to 22, optionally from 8 to 14 carbon atoms, with (b) glucose or a glucose-containing polymer. The alkyl polyglucosides have about 1 to about 6 glucose residues per molecule of alkyl glucoside. Suitable alkyl polyglucosides include, but are not limited to, coco glucoside, decyl glucoside, and lauryl glucoside. In other specific embodiments, the oral care compositions of the present invention incorporate lauryl glucoside as the alkyl polyglucosides. Lauryl glucoside is commercially available from Cognis Corp. as Plantaren 1200 N UP.

[0050] In some embodiments, the amphoteric surfactant is an alkylamidopropyl betaine as represented by the following structural formula

wherein R¹ is a long chain alkyl radical having from 1 to 18, optionally from 10 to about 16 carbon atoms. In specific embodiments, the alkylamidopropyl betaine incorporated into the oral care compositions of the present invention is cocamidopropyl betaine.

[0051] In certain embodiments, the anionic, nonionic and amphoteric surfactants are incorporated into the surfactant system at a ratio of from 80:10:10 to 20:40:40, optionally 60:20:20 to 40:30:30, or optionally 50:25:25.

[0052] The surfactants or surfactant systems are present at a level of from 0.1% to 5%, or optionally from 0.2% to 2.5% by weight of the composition.

[0053] In some embodiments, the surfactant systems or surfactant(s) are incorporated into the compositions of the present invention and screened using a specific foam generation and screening test.

Foam Generation and Screening Test

[0054] The foam generation and screening test used to characterize the foams of the present invention comprises the steps of diluting a composition comprising the surfactant systems or surfactant(s) of the present invention with an artificial saliva solution comprising:

Sodium Chloride	1.2236 gm
Potassium Chloride	1.215 gm
Calcium Chloride	0.3178 gm
Potassium Phosphate Monobasic	2.7532 gm
Potassium Phosphate Dibasic	3.5053 gm
Deionized Water	2000 ml

such that the mixture comprises 80% of the surfactant containing composition and 20% of the artificial saliva solution, the mixture is then blended for 10 seconds using a Oster 14-speed blender (model number 6855) on the easy clean speed setting (speed setting No. 1).

[0055] A 0.005 gram sample of the foam from the surface of the mixture inside the blender was removed using a spatula.

[0056] The 0.005 gram foam sample was placed on a 25mm x 75mm glass slide having two 0.634mm PET spacers positioned on each corner of the slide. A second slide was placed onto the first slide and spaced by the PET spacers ensuring that there was a monolayer of foam between the two slides.

[0057] The slide was mounted on the Olympus optical microscope (model BX-51 with Discover Details 5 Image Analysis software stage), adjusting the microscope to reflectance mode and capturing the image using the 5X objective and then analyzed.

[0058] Foams generated from compositions incorporating the surfactant(s) or surfactant systems of the present invention and using the foam generation and screening test described above have a bubble size distribution such that for each 0.005 grams of foam, at least 30, optionally 50, optionally 65, optionally 80, optionally 100, optionally 125, optionally 150, optionally 175, or optionally 200 bubbles have a diameter of less than 50 microns and additionally, or alternatively, wherein the foams have a bubble size distribution such that for each 0.005 grams of foam occupying an area of 25mm x 75mm x 1.270mm, at least 90%, optionally at least 95%, optionally at least 98% of the bubbles have a diameter of less than 50 microns.

[0059] In alternative embodiments, the above mentioned surfactants are incorporated singly or in various other combinations.

Foam Enhancing Agents

[0060] In certain embodiments, the composition of the present invention incorporates a foam enhancing agent to further increase the number or percentage of bubbles having a diameter of less than 50 microns in the bubble size distribution generated by the surfactants or surfactant systems of the present invention.

[0061] Suitable foam enhancing agents include, but are not limited to, natural seaweed extract, natural seed gum, natural plant exudates, natural plant extracts, natural fiber extracts, biosynthetic gums, gelatins, biosynthetic process starch or cellulosic materials, alginates, carrageenans, guar, locust, tara, arabic gum, ghatti gum, agar gum, pectin, other like hydrocolloid source material, salts thereof, or mixtures thereof. Suspending agents mentioned above may also be useful as foam enhancing agents. In specific embodiments, the foam enhancing agent is selected from the group consisting of alginates, carrageenans, salts thereof or mixtures thereof. In certain other embodiments, the foam enhancing agent is carrageenan.

[0062] The foam enhancing agent(s) are present at a level of from 0.001% to 12%, optionally from 0.01% to 8%, optionally from 0.1% to 5%, or optionally from 0.2 to 2.5% by weight of the oral care composition.

[0063] In some embodiments, when the foam enhancing agents are incorporated into the compositions of the present invention with the above-mentioned surfactant systems or surfactant(s) and screened using the foam generation and screening test, the foams generated by the screening test have a bubble size distribution such that for each 0.005 grams of foam at least 150, optionally 200, optionally 225, optionally 250, optionally 275, optionally 300, optionally 325, optionally 350, optionally 375, or optionally 400 bubbles have a diameter of less than 50 microns and additionally, or alternatively, wherein the foams generated by the screening test have a bubble size distribution such that for each 0.005 grams of foam occupying an area of 25mm x 75mm x 1.270mm, at least 90%, optionally at least 95%, optionally at least 98% of the bubbles have a diameter of less than 50 microns.

Gas Generating Agents or Materials

[0064] In certain embodiments, gas is used to generate foam in the oral cavity. This is specifically useful in embodiments in which the teeth are manually cleaned with a clean instrument, such as a toothbrush, after a portion, substantial portion or the bulk of the composition has been removed (expectorated) from the oral cavity.
The oral composition may comprise a foam generating agent or materials. The foam generating agent or materials may be gas generating agent or materials. Foamable embodiments may include gas-generating materials such as, but limited to, peroxide generating compounds; alkali metal bicarbonate salts such as sodium or potassium bicarbonate in combination with organic acids; compressed air, butane, isopentane, nitrous oxide or carbon dioxide; volatile hydrocarbons or mixture of volatile hydrocarbons (of typically 3 to 6 carbons in chain length); and mixtures thereof. Further, gas generating agent or materials may be selected from the group consisting of peroxide generating compounds; alkali metal bicarbonate salts such as sodium or potassium bicarbonate in combination with organic acids; compressed air, butane, isopentane, nitrous oxide or carbon dioxide; volatile hydrocarbons or mixture of volatile hydrocarbons; and mixtures thereof.

[0065] Suitable peroxide generating compounds include, but not limited to, peroxides such as hydrogen peroxide, urea peroxide, calcium peroxide and mixtures thereof; perborates such as sodium perborate, potassium perborate and mixtures thereof; percarbonates such as sodium percarbonate, potassium percarbonate and mixtures thereof; metal chlorites such as calcium chlorite, barium chlorite, magnesium chlorite, lithium chlorite or sodium chlorite, potassium chlorite and mixtures thereof; peroxyacids such as peroxyacetic acid; and mixtures thereof.

[0066] In some embodiments gas can be generated by mixing two or more separated formulations prior (or just prior) to usage such as by combining acids such as tartaric acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, adipic acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, or sulfamic acid and mixtures thereof with carbonate salts such as sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, ammonium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium bicarbonate and mixtures thereof to produce an effervescent reaction.

[0067] In yet another embodiment gas can be generated in-vivo during usage by incorporating gaseous liquids such as carbonated liquids into the product during manufacture and/or just prior to usage. In this embodiment the invention can either be a single formulation or two or more formulations kept separated from each other and mixed prior (or just prior) to usage.

[0068] In still other embodiments, the compositions of the present invention are free of or essentially free of gas-generating agents or materials. "Essentially free" as used with respect to gas-generating agents or materials is defined as formulations having less than 5%, optionally, 3%, optionally, 1%, optionally, 0.01% or zero percent, by weight of the total composition of a gas-generating agent or material.

Rheological Properties

[0069] In some embodiments, the oral care compositions or formulations are stable and pourable for rinsing, having rheological properties including the ability to suspend particles, pour easily, and be swishable in the mouth without negative viscosity build. These formulations also provide adequate substantivity such that the formulation material is retained in mouth, post expectoration (or removal), so that, if toothbrushed, the brushing experience meets consumer expectations (i.e., adequate foaming, body, mouthfeel etc.) for improving the post rinse and/or brush-sensory experience.

[0070] Dynamic mechanical rheological properties as a function of frequency and temperature are useful tools for predicting the overall physical stability of concentrated colloidal dispersions containing particulates.

[0071] By using dynamic rheology, the prediction of physical stability can often be accomplished in less than three (3) hours. The dynamic or oscillatory rheology technique is performed in two parts. First, a strain sweep test (frequency constant, strain variable) defines the linear viscoelastic range (LVR). Second, frequency scans (from 0.01 to 5.0 Hz) are performed at various temperatures, from 5 to 49°C (40-120°F). In certain embodiments, the frequency scans are performed in the LVR. Dynamic rheology measurements yield data on the elastic (G') and viscous (G") moduli. Plotting the elastic to viscous moduli ratio as a function of frequency and temperature generates a plot which is a "fingerprint" of the dispersion's colloidal stability. The G'/G" ratios correlate well with observed physical stability properties. Then Tan (delta) is calculated by the ratio of G" to G', or tan (delta) = G"/G'. This represents the viscous fraction to elastic fraction of the suspension.

[0072] The oral care compositions of the present invention have a Tan delta of less than 1, optionally less than 0.75, optionally less than 0.5, at frequencies of between 0.1 to 100 rads^-1 as measured by an RFSII rheometer (TA Instruments, New Castle, DE) with couette geometry.

[0073] "Pourability" of oral care formulations is defined as the capability of moving in a continuous flow. The terms "Swishing" "Swishable" or "Swishability of' as they relate to the oral care compositions of the present invention mean moving or the ability to move the composition with sufficient force to produce a sibilant, or hissing, sound by movement i) through and/or around the teeth and/or ii) around the oral cavity, where such movement can occur for a period of time without noticeable tiring or fatiguing of the jaw muscles of the user.

[0074] Steady state viscosity measurements give information on relevant ranges of viscosities that may provide consumer acceptable pourability and swishability in the mouth. In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention have a pourability (first) viscosity of less than 2000 centipoise, optionally less than 1500 centipoise, optionally less than 1000, optionally less than 700, optionally less than 500 centipoise, optionally less than 300 centipoise, at a shear rate of 10s^-1. In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention have a swishability (second) viscosity of less than 1000 centipoise, optionally less than 500 centipoise, optionally less than 300, optionally less than 150, optionally less than 100 centipoise, optionally less than 50 centipoise at a shear rate of 100s^-1.

[0075] In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention are shear thinning. Shear thinning is an effect where viscosity decreases with increasing rate of shear stress. Materials that exhibit shear thinning are called pseudoplastic.

[0076] In certain embodiments of the present invention, the oral care compositions as herein described are used regularly, from 1 to 4, optionally from 2 to 3, times daily, in place of a conventional dentifrice. A typical usage involves introducing a safe and effective amount or quantity (for example, at least 1, optionally, at least 5, optionally, at least 10, optionally, at least 15, optionally, at least 20 milliliters) of the oral care composition into the oral cavity, swishing the composition around the oral cavity and/or through the teeth for sufficient time to coat the teeth, and expelling, swallowing or otherwise removing a portion or substantial portion of the composition from the mouth. The composition is swished around the oral cavity and/or through the teeth for at least 10, optionally, at least 20, optionally, at least 30, optionally, at least 50, optionally, at least 75, optionally, at least 100, optionally, at least 120, times or swishing cycles within a period of at least 1, optionally, at least 5, optionally, at least 10, optionally, at least 15, optionally, at least 20, optionally, at least 30, optionally, at least 45, optionally, at least 60, optionally, at least 90 seconds.

[0077] Optionally, the teeth are brushed with a tooth cleaning instrument such as a toothbrush for a sufficient amount of time to provide desired cleaning. In certain embodiments, it has been found that, upon introduction and removal of a portion, substantial portion or the bulk of the compositions of the present invention from the oral cavity, sufficient composition remains on the teeth, tongue and/or oral tissues or mucosa of the mouth to give a satisfactory foaming and abrasive action, when optionally used in conjunction with a toothbrush, and to provide a long-lasting fresh mouth feel after use.

Optional Ingredients

Oral Care Actives

[0078] In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention further contain oral care actives. In certain embodiments, the oral care actives include, but are not limited to, anti-plaque agents, fluoride ion sources such as sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate and amine fluorides (providing, for example, 1-1500 ppm of fluoride ion, optionally 200-1150 ppm of fluoride ion); anti-calculus agents such as water-soluble pyrophosphate salts, optionally, specific alkali metal pyrophosphates; chelating agents; tooth desensitization agents which reduce tooth sensitivity including potassium salts such as potassium oxalate, potassium nitrate and potassium chloride (for example 1% to 5% by weight) and strontium salts such as strontium chloride and strontium acetate (for example 2% to 10% by weight); tooth whitening agents and vitamins such as vitamin A.

[0079] In certain embodiments, suitable anti-plaque and/or anti-gingivitis agents include, but are not limited to, oral care enzymes, non-ionic antibacterial agents such as bromochlorophene and triclosan and cationic agents such as cetylpyridinium chloride and chlorhexidine salts, and mixtures thereof. Furthermore, it is known that certain water-insoluble flavoring oils such as anethole, eucalyptol, methyl salicylate, thymol and menthol have an antibacterial effect at high concentrations. In certain embodiments, the oral care compositions of the present invention comprise from 0.001% to 1%, optionally from 0.01% to 0.5% by weight of a non-ionic antibacterial agent. In some embodiments, the water-insoluble anti-tartar agents comprise zinc salts such as zinc citrate. In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can comprise from 0.1% to 1% of a water-insoluble anti-calculus agent.

[0080] A more detailed discussion oral care actives useful in the compositions of the present invention can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,601,338 to Masters et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,682,722 to Majeti et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 6,121,315 to Nair et al..

Carriers and Carrier Ingredients

[0081] In certain embodiments, the compositions according to the present invention may comprise at least 45%, optionally, at least 60%, optionally, at least 80% to 99%, or, optionally, at least 80% to 90% by weight of a liquid carrier, but it will be understood by those skilled in the art that this proportion depends to a large extent on the proportion of abrasive incorporated into the composition. In certain embodiments, the liquid carrier may be in the form of a solution, emulsion or microemulsion of components and, in some embodiments, contain at least about 5% by weight water, optionally, at least about 10% by weight water. In certain embodiments, alcohol such as ethanol may optionally form part of the liquid carrier, for example, from about 5% to about 35% by weight of the liquid carrier, and, in some embodiments, is particularly useful in oral care compositions having a high flavor impact and breath-freshening and/or antiseptic properties. Optionally, the liquid carrier of the present invention is an orally acceptable liquid carrier. The phrase "orally acceptable" means that the carrier is suitable for application to the surfaces of the oral cavity or ingestion by a living organism including, but not limited to, mammals and humans without undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, allergic response, and the like.

[0082] In specific embodiments, the compositions of the present invention can be in the form of mouthrinses, mouthwashes, gels, liquid gels, liquid dentifrices and the like.

[0083] In certain embodiments, the liquid carrier contains humectants, substances that promote retention of moisture, to enhance the mouthfeel of the product and to prevent drying out. In some embodiments, humectants include, but are not limited to, glycerin, sorbitol and glycols such as propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. In other embodiments, alternatively or in addition to the humectant, the liquid carrier may contain silicone oils, for example, in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. In certain clear product embodiments, where the refractive index is an important consideration, the refractive index of abrasive system can be chosen or made to match the refractive index of the carrier or solvent system.

[0084] In certain embodiments, the oral care compositions of the present invention may contain flavoring agents commonly in the form of oils commercially available as mouthwash, mouth rinse, and toothpaste flavors. In some embodiments, flavoring agents include, but are not limited to, peppermint, spearmint, aniseed, menthol, eucalyptus, clove, thymol and wintergreen, and mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments, high levels of flavoring oils can be incorporated into the oral care compositions of the present invention by forming an emulsion in the liquid carrier. This is particularly advantageous in certain embodiments, where the compositions are required to have little or no alcohol content but which need to have a high flavor impact. Conventional oral care compositions containing high flavoring concentrations generally utilize substantial levels of alcohol to dissolve the flavoring oils. In certain embodiments of the present invention, high flavoring content may also be desirable where oral care compositions contain an unpleasant tasting active ingredient, for example an agent to reduce tooth sensitivity such as strontium chloride, potassium nitrate and/or potassium oxalate or an anti-tartar agent such as tetrapotassium pyrophosphate salts. In certain embodiments, the oral care compositions according to the invention contain from 0.01% to 1.5%, optionally, from 0.1% to 1% by weight of the flavoring agent.

[0085] In certain embodiments, the oral care compositions of the invention incorporate colorings, which may be soluble coloring agents conventionally used in mouthwashes or dentifrices or may be the insoluble particulates such as color pigments or whitening agents such as titanium dioxide, pearlizing agents such as mica, or mixtures thereof. Color pigments are generally available in a wider range of colors and are less susceptible to fading than soluble coloring agents and may therefore be used to advantage in the compositions of the present invention.

[0086] In certain embodiments, the pH of the oral care compositions according to the present invention is generally in the range of from 3.5 to 10.0, or optionally, from 4.0 to 8.0. In other embodiments, if desired, the pH can be controlled with acid, for example citric acid, or base, for example sodium hydroxide, or buffered, for example with citrate, phosphate, benzoate or bicarbonate buffering salts.

[0087] Various other materials may optionally be incorporated into certain embodiments of the compositions of the present invention which will be well known to those skilled in the art. These include, for example, at least one of sweeteners such as saccharin and aspartame; preservatives such as sodium benzoate and parabens. In certain embodiments, these optional additives may together comprise from 0.01% to 10%, optionally, from 0.1% to 5% by weight of the composition.

[0088] In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention are free of or essentially free of bioavailability affecting compounds. As used herein, "bioavailability affecting compound", means compounds that negatively affect the bioavailability of any incorporated oral care actives such as by binding the oral care actives or inactivating the oral care actives. "Essentially free" as used with respect to bioavailability affecting compounds is defined as formulations having less than 5%, optionally, 3%, optionally, 1%, or optionally, 0.01%, by weight of the total composition of a bioavailability affecting compound. In certain embodiments, the bioavailability affecting compound can include, but is not limited to, chemically unmodified clays, water soluble calcium salts, water soluble magnesium salts, water soluble aluminum salts, carbonate salts and mixtures thereof. In other embodiments, the oral care compositions of the present invention are free of or essentially free of chemically unmodified clays.

[0089] In certain embodiments, the compositions of the present invention are also free of or essentially free of gellan gum. "Essentially free" as used with respect to gellan gum is defined as formulations having less than 5%, optionally, 3%, optionally, 1%, or optionally, 0.01%, by weight of the total composition of the gellan gum. Gellan gum tends to be negatively affected by such manufacturing processes as formulation reproducibility and mass production formulation scale-up. Specifically, gellan gum requires significant shear forces (such as the forces provided by a Silverson L4RT high shear mixer at rpm ranges of from 5500 - 9800 rpm) for uniform dispersion of the gum in solvents such as water. Accomplishing such shear is typically dependent on the specific equipment used and mixers such as propeller mixers generally used in some labs and/or as part of standard mass production processes will not provide the consistent and efficient shear necessary to hydrate the gellan gum for activity.

[0090] In certain embodiments, the compositions according to the invention may be shaken prior to use or, alternatively, provide stable suspensions during use without being shaken prior to use.

[0091] In other embodiments, the compositions according to the present invention are pourable, pleasant tasting suspensions which remain physically stable after storage, or in still further embodiments, after long-term storage, for example, for over 3 months at ambient temperatures and in particular have suitable sedimentation times, for example, greater than 3, 6, 12, or 24 months.

[0092] In certain embodiments, a further advantage of the oral care compositions according to the present invention relates to their ease of manufacture compared to the manufacture of conventional dentifrices such as toothpastes. It is well known in the art that stringent production methods are required to obtain a satisfactory toothpaste product, for example manufacture must be carried out under vacuum to prevent the formation of air bubbles which produce a visually unacceptable product and may lead to oxidation of the flavorings and syneresis (the process by which a liquid is separated from a gel owing to further coagulation) of the product. In contrast, certain embodiments of the oral care compositions of the present invention are easily formulated by dispersing the abrasive into a mixture of surfactant, suspending agent and liquid carrier, under normal production conditions without the need for an external vacuum or vacuumed environment.

[0093] The oral care compositions according to the invention are illustrated by the following examples.

EXAMPLES

[0094] The oral compositions of the present invention as described in following examples illustrate specific embodiments of compositions of the present invention, but are not intended to be limiting thereof.

EXAMPLE 1

Oral Care Formulations and Preparation.

[0095] A series of oral care compositions, listed in Tables 1 through 5 below, were formulated.

Table 1: Liquid Gel Dentifrices

Formulation	1-1*	1-2*
Ingredient	w/w%	w/w%
Deionized Water	55.2906	55.5706
Citric acid	0.1000	0.01000
Sorbitol solution	20.0000	20.0000
Sodium Saccharin	0.1170	0.1170
Silica	5.0000	4.0000
Keltrol CG-T Xanthan gum	0.3000	-----
P TIC Xanthan gum	-----	0.3000
Ethyl alcohol	18.3030	18.3030
Menthol	0.0323	0.0323
Thymol	0.0639	0.0639
Methyl salicylate	0.0660	0.0660
Eucalyptol	0.0922	0.0922
Mint Flavor	0.0850	0.0850
FD&C Green	-----	0.0100
N-Propanol	-----	0.5000
Polaxamer 407	0.2500	0.2500
Sodium lauryl sulfate	0.3000	0.6000
TOTAL	100.0000	100.0000

* = comparative

[0096] The comparative liquid gel dentifrices of Table 1 were prepared according to the following steps. In Step A, using a first suitable beaker (herein after referring to it as the main beaker), a quantity of deionized water was added to the main beaker, sprinkle in the citric acid and mixed until it dissolved. A Silverson L4RT high shear mixer (Silverson Machines Inc. East Longmeadow, MA) was used to disperse the gums by sprinkling them in slowly, and mixed for 5 to 10 minutes. Once gums were dispersed, the mixer was switched to a Caframo mixer (Caframo Limited Wiarton, Ontario, Canada), and mixing continued. Sorbitol and saccharin sodium were added, and the solution was mixed well until homogeneous. Then, the silica was added and mixed well until it was uniformly distributed.

[0097] In Step B (the alcohol phase), in a second suitable beaker, ethanol, n-propanol, thymol, menthol, methyl salicylate, eucalyptol, mint flavor and Poloxamer 407 were combined, and mixed well until homogeneous.

[0098] In Step C (the surfactant blend), in a third suitable beaker, deionized water and sodium lauryl sulfate, were combined and mixed until the mixture was visually clear to the unaided eye.

[0099] In the final step, the contents of the second beaker (from Step B) were added to the main beaker (of Step A) and mixed well until homogenous. Finally, the contents of the third beaker (of Step C) were added to the main beaker and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

Table 2: Liquid Gel Dentifrices

Formulation	2-1	2-2
Ingredient	w/w%	w/w%
Deionized Water	52.3541	48.7400
Disodium EDTA	0.3000	0.3000
Sodium Fluoride	0.1878	0.1878
Avicel CL-611 microcrystalline cellulose/ carboxy methylcellulose sodium	1.0000	0.7000
1% Solution Keltrol CG-T Xanthan gum	10.0000	15.0000
Carrageenan	0.0500	0.0500
Sorbitol solution	20.0000	20.0000
Sucralose solution	0.1200	0.1200
Sodium Saccharin	0.1170	0.1170
Silica	5.0000	5.0000
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate	0.8000	0.8000
Lauryl glucoside	0.8000	0.8000
Cocamidopropyl betaine	0.4000	0.4000
Ethyl alcohol	8.4211	6.5264
Polaxamer 407	-----	0.2500
Menthol	-----	0.0646
Thymol	-----	0.1278
Methyl salicylate	-----	0.1320
Eucalyptol	-----	0.1844
Mint Flavor	0.4500	0.5000
TOTAL	100.0000	100.0000

[0100] The liquid gel dentifrices of Table 2 were prepared according to the following steps. In Step A, the disodium EDTA, sodium fluoride, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, and deionized water were mixed in a first beaker until all solids were dissolved.

[0101] In Step B, xanthan gum, in the form of a powder, was added to deionized water in a second beaker to create a 1% solution. Mixing was performed in a Silverson L4RT high shear mixer (Silverson Machines Inc. East Longmeadow, MA) until all solids were dissolved.

[0102] In Step C, deionized water was added to a third beaker. Using the Silverson L4RT high shear mixer, the carrageenan was dispersed in the water by sprinkling it in slowly, and mixing until homogeneous. The Avicel CL-611 microcrystalline cellulose/ sodium carboxy methylcellulose was sprinkled in, and the Silverson L4RT high shear mixer continued to operate until the mixture was homogeneous. The mixer was switched to Caframo mixer (Caframo Limited Wiarton, Ontario, Canada) and mixing continued. Sorbitol, sodium saccharin, and sucralose were added, and the solution was mixed well until homogeneous. The lauryl glucoside was melted, and added to the batch, and mixing was continued until homogeneous. The xanthan gum solution (Step B, second beaker) was added to the batch, and mixing continued until homogenous. Then, the silica was added and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

[0103] In Step D (the alcohol phase), in a fourth beaker, ethanol and mint flavor (for formula 11706-093), or ethanol, mint flavor, thymol, menthol, methyl salicylate, eucalyptol, and Poloxamer 407 (for formula 11706-094) were combined, and mixed until homogeneous.

[0104] In the final step, the contents of the fourth beaker (from Step D) were added to the third beaker (of Step C) and mixed well until homogenous. Finally, the contents of the first beaker (of Step A) were added to the main beaker and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

Table 3: Liquid Gel Dentifrices

Formulation	3-1*
Ingredient	w/w%
Deionized Water	70.1995
Sodium Saccharin	0.1000
Sodium Fluoride	0.0500
DI Water	5.0000
Glycerine	10.0000
Methylparaben	0.2000
Montmorillonite clay	3.5000
Silica	10.0000
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate	0.5000
Dye	0.0005
Mint Flavor	0.4500
TOTAL	100.0000

* = comparative

[0105] The comparative liquid gel dentifrices of Table 3 were prepared according to the following steps. In Step A, the sodium saccharin, sodium fluoride, and deionized water were mixed in a first beaker until all solids were dissolved.

[0106] In Step B, the glycerine was added to a second beaker, and mixing started. Methylparaben was added, and the solution was mixed until homogeneous. Then the montmorillonite clay was added to the batch, and mixing continued until homogeneous. The contents of the first beaker (Step A) were added to the batch of second beaker, and mixing continued until homogeneous. Then, the silica was added to the second beaker and mixed until the batch was homogeneous. Finally, the sodium lauryl sulfate, flavor, and dye were sequentially added to the second beaker and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

Table 4: Liquid Gel Dentifrices

Formulation	4-1*
Ingredient	w/w%
Deionized Water	62.0366
Disodium EDTA	0.3000
Sodium Fluoride	0.0500
Acryate copolymer	3.3500
Carrageenan	0.0500
Sorbitol solution	20.0000
Sucralose solution	0.1200
Sodium Saccharin	0.1170
Silica	5.0000
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate	0.8000
Lauryl glucoside	0.8000
Cocamidopropyl betaine	0.4000
Ethyl alcohol	6.5264
Mint Flavor	0.4500
TOTAL	100.0000

* = comparative

[0107] The comparative liquid gel dentifrices of Table 4 were prepared according to the following steps. In Step A, the disodium EDTA, sodium fluoride, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, and deionized water were mixed in a first beaker until all solids were dissolved.

[0108] In Step B, deionized water was added to a second beaker. Using a Silverson L4RT high shear mixer (Silverson Machines Inc. East Longmeadow, MA), the carrageenan was dispersed in the water by sprinkling them in slowly, and mixing until homogeneous. The mixer was switched to Caframo mixer (Caframo Limited Wiarton, Ontario, Canada) and mixing continued. The acryate copolymer was added, and the solution was mixed until homogeneous. Sorbitol, sodium saccharin, and sucralose were added, and the solution was mixed until homogenous. The lauryl glucoside was melted, and added to the batch, and mixing was continued until homogeneous. Then, the silica was added to the second beaker and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

[0109] In Step C (the alcohol phase), in a third beaker, ethanol and mint flavor were combined, and mixed until homogeneous.

[0110] In the final step, the contents of the third beaker (from Step C) were added to the second beaker (of Step B) and mixed until homogenous. Finally, the contents of the first beaker (of Step A) were added to the second beaker and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

Table 5: Liquid Gel Dentifrices

Formulation	5-1*
Ingredient	w/w%
Deionized Water	54.3806
Citric Acid	0.0100
Sorbitol solution	20.0000
Sodium Saccharin	0.1170
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose	1.0000
Silica	5.0000
Ethyl alcohol	18.3030
Polaxamer 407	0.2500
Menthol	0.0323
Thymol	0.0639
Methyl salicylate	0.0660
Eucalyptol	0.0922
Mint Flavor	0.0850
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate	0.6000
TOTAL	100.0000

* = comparative

[0111] The comparative liquid gel dentifrices of Table 5 were prepared according to the following steps. In Step A, the sodium lauryl sulfate and deionized water were mixed in a first beaker until all solids were dissolved.

[0112] In Step B, deionized water was added to a second beaker. Using a Silverson L4RT high shear mixer (Silverson Machines Inc. East Longmeadow, MA), the hydroxypropyl methylcellulose was dispersed in the water by sprinkling them in slowly, and mixing until homogeneous. Sorbitol and sodium saccharin were added, and the solution was mixed well until homogeneous. Then, the silica was added the second beaker and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

[0113] In Step C (the alcohol phase), in a third beaker, ethanol, mint flavor, thymol, menthol, methyl salicylate, eucalyptol, and Poloxamer 407 were combined, and mixed until homogeneous.

[0114] In the final step, the contents of the third beaker (from Step C) were added to the second beaker (of Step B) and mixed well until homogenous. Finally, the contents of the first beaker (of Step A) were added to the main beaker and mixed until the batch was homogenous.

Table 6: Inventive Liquid Gel Dentifrices

Formulation	6-1*	6-2*	6-3*
Ingredient	w/w%	w/w%	w/w%
Deionized Water	58.1687	58.8237	58.8237
Sorbitol (70% Solution)	20.0000	20.0000	20.0000
Iota Carrageenan	--------	--------	--------
35% Hydrogen Peroxide solution	--------	--------	--------
Ethyl alcohol (200 proof)	10.0000	10.0000	10.0000
Hydrated silica	--------	--------	--------
Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate	0.4000	--------	--------
Lauryl Glucoside	0.4000	--------	0.2750
Cocamidopropyl betaine	0.2000	--------	0.7400
Sodium trideceth sulfate	--------	1.3300	--------
PEG-80 sorbitan laurate	--------	0.2750	--------
Sodium lauroamphoacetate	--------	0.7400	--------
Sodium methyl cocoyl taurate	--------	--------	1.3300
Sodium Fluoride	0.1613	0.1613	0.1613
Sucralose Solution	0.1200	0.1200	0.1200
Sodium Saccharin	0.1000	0.1000	0.1000
Flavor	0.4500	0.4500	0.4500
TOTAL	100.0000	100.0000	100.0000

* = comparative

[0115] The comparative liquid gel dentifrices of Table 6 were prepared according to the following steps. In Step A, the surfactant or surfactant combinations (using the sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium trideceth sulfate, PEG-80 sorbitan laurate, and/or sodium methyl cocoyl taurate as listed in Table 8), sodium fluoride, and deionized water were mixed in a first beaker until all solids were dissolved.

[0116] In Step B, deionized water was added to a second beaker. Using a Silverson L4RT high shear mixer (Silverson Machines Inc. East Longmeadow, MA), the carrageenan were sprinkled in, and the Silverson L4RT high shear mixer continued to operate until the mixture was homogeneous. The mixer was switched to Caframo mixer (Caframo Limited Wiarton, Ontario, Canada) and mixing continued. Sorbitol, sodium saccharin, and sucralose were added, and the solution was mixed well until homogeneous. The lauryl glucoside (if required by the formulation in Table 6) was melted, and added to the batch, and mixing was continued until homogeneous. Then, the silica (if required by the formulation in Table 6) was added and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

[0117] In Step C (the alcohol phase), in a third beaker, ethanol and mint flavor were combined, and mixed until homogeneous.

[0118] In the final step, the contents of the third beaker (from Step C) were added to the second beaker (of Step B) and mixed well until homogenous. Finally, the contents of the first beaker (of Step A) and the hydrogen peroxide solution (as in the case of Formulation 8-1) were added to the main beaker and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

Table 7: Comparative Liquid Gel Dentifrices

Formulation	7-1*
Ingredient	w/w%
Deionized Water	58.5687
Sorbitol (70% Solution)	20.0000
High acyl gellan gum	---
Iota Carrageenan	---
Ethyl alcohol (200 proof)	10.0000
Hydrated silica	---
Sodium lauryl sulfate	0.6000
Sodium Fluoride	0.1613
Sucralose Solution	0.1200
Sodium Saccharin	0.1000
Flavor	0.4500
TOTAL	100.0000

* = comparative

[0119] The comparative liquid gel dentifrices of Table 7 were prepared according to the following steps. In Step A, the sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium fluoride, and deionized water were mixed in a first beaker until all solids were dissolved.

[0120] In Step B, deionized water was added to a second beaker. Using a Silverson L4RT high shear mixer (Silverson Machines Inc. East Longmeadow, MA), the carrageenan were sprinkled in, and the Silverson L4RT high shear mixer continued to operate until the mixture was homogeneous. The mixer was switched to Caframo mixer (Caframo Limited Wiarton, Ontario, Canada) and mixing continued. Sorbitol, sodium saccharin, and sucralose were added, and the solution was mixed well until homogeneous. Then, the silica (if required by the formulation in Table 7) was added and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

[0121] In Step C (the alcohol phase), in a third beaker, ethanol and mint flavor were combined, and mixed until homogeneous.

[0122] In the final step, the contents of the third beaker (from Step C) were added to the second beaker (of Step B) and mixed well until homogenous. Finally, the contents of the first beaker (of Step A) was added to the main beaker and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

[0123] The list of ingredients, and their trade names and sources, are shown on Table 8.

Table 8: Ingredients list.

Ingredient	Trade Name	Source
Acrylate copolymer	Aqua SF-1 (30%)	Lubrizol Corp.
Carrageenan	Genuvisco TPC-1	CP Kelco
Citric acid	Citric acid anhydrous	DSM Nutritional Products Inc
Cocamidopropyl betaine	Tegobetaine CKD	Degussa
Deionized Water	NA	In-house
Disodium EDTA	Disodium EDTA	Cognis Corporation
Dye	FD&C Green #3	Sensient Colors
Ethyl alcohol	Alcohol USP 195 proof	Pharmco Products
Ethyl alcohol	Alcohol USP 200 proof	Pharmco Products
Ethyl alcohol	Alcohol USP 195 proof	Pharmco Products
Eucalyptol	Eucalyptol	Ungerer and Company
Flavor - Mint	N&A SNO Mint 11397	Firmenich
Flavor - Mint	N&A Wintergreen Mint 539274T	Firmenich
Flavor - Peppermint	N&A Peppermint Tingle 539314T	Firmenich
Glycerin	Glycerin	Cognis Corporation
Hydrated silica	Zeodent 113	J. M. Huber Corporation
Hydrated silica/TiO2	Sylodent 750	Grace Davison
Hydrogen Peroxide (35% solution)	Peralkali	Degussa
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose K100M	Methocel K100M	Dow Chemical
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose	Methocel 40-202 PCG	Dow Chemical
Lauryl glucoside	Plantaren 1200 N UP	Cognis Corp.
Low acyl gellen gum	Kelcogel CG-LA	CP Kelco
Menthol	L-Menthol, nat. USP/FCC	Polarome International
Methylparaben	Nipagin M	Mallinckrodt Baker Inc.
Methyl salicylate	Methyl salicylate NF	Rhodia Inc.
Microcrystalline cellulose/carboxy methylcellulose sodium	Avicel CL-611	FMC Corporation
Montmorillonite clay	Gelwhite H	Southern Clay Inc.
N-Propanol	N-Propanol	Penta Manufacturing Company
Polaxamer 407	Pluronic F-127	BASF Corporation
Sodium Fluoride	Sodium Fluoride Powder	Mallinckrodt Baker Inc.
Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate	Hamposyl L-95	Chattem Chemicals, Inc.
Sodium lauryl sulfate	Emicol LZ N	Huntsman
Sodium lauryl sulfate	Stepanol WA	Stepan Company
Sodium saccharin	Saccharin Sodium Granular, USP	PMC Specialties Group
Sodium saccharin	Syncal GS	PMC Specialties
Sorbitol	Sorbitol solution (70%), USP	SPI Polyols, Inc.
Sucralose	Sucralose solution (25%)	McNeil
Thymol	Thymol	Symrise
Xanthan gum	Keltrol CG-T	Monsanto Company
Xanthan gum	P TIC pre-hydrated rapid - 3 powder	TIC Gums

EXAMPLE 2

Rheology Testing

[0124] Formulations described in Example 1 were tested for their rheological properties. The same instrumentation was used for both the oscillatory and steady shear measurements. The instrument used was a strain controlled oscillatory rheometer (model RFSII, TA Instruments, New Castle, DE). Couette and parallel plate geometries were used in all of the testing.

[0125] Steady shear viscosity was measured to probe the time dependence and pseudoplasticity of the samples over a broad range of shear rates from 0.02/s to 100/s. These measurements were intended to cover the range of consumer use at both room temperature and body temperature, such as physical appearance, pourability, and tooth swishing. Measurements were made at 0.02, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 10, 25, 50 and 100 s^-1 for all samples.

[0126] For the dynamic oscillatory measurements, the strain sweeps were completed at a frequency of 10 radians/s to determine the viscoelastic region and the frequencies were done in the linear region or near at a strain of 0.02 at RT. The estimation of stability was based on the strength of the gel network. If there was no relaxation, and tan (delta) < 1.0, stability was deemed to be good.

[0127] Table 9 shows the results of viscosity and tan delta values for various formulations.

Table 9: Viscosity (shear rates 10/s and 100/s) and Tan delta (frequencies 0.1 and 100 radians/s).

Formulation	Comment	Viscosity at 10/s (cP)	Viscosity at 100/s (cP)	Tan delta at 0.1 rad/s	Tan delta at 100 rad/s
1-1*	0.3% Keltrol Xanthan	525	102	0.69	0.02
1-2*	0.3% TIC Xanthan			1.05	0.34
2-1	1% Avicel 611, 0.1% Keltrol Xanthan	391	86	0.60	0.44
2-2	0.7% Avicel 611, 0.15% Keltrol Xanthan	382	80	0.68	0.43
3-1*	Montmorillonite Clay	172	42	0.62	0.40
4-1*	Acrylate Copolymer	89	54	4.15	0.82
5-1*	1% HPMC			26.01	1.00

* = comparative

[0128] The table shows that formulations 1-1*, 2-1, 2-2, and 3-1* all met the tan delta criteria of less than 1.0 at frequencies 0.1 to 100 rads^-1, and additionally meet the viscosity criteria at a shear rate of 10s^-1 of less than 700 centipoise, and the viscosity criteria at a shear rate of 100s^-1 of less than 150 centipoise. Formulation 3-1 contained clay.

EXAMPLE 3

Stability Testing

[0129] All formulations from Example 1 were checked initially and, if no obvious visible (to the unaided eye) signs of sedimentation had occurred, at 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, with the following parameters measured each time:

1) Appearance

2) taste

3) viscosity

4) sedimentation

5) pH

[0130] Formulations 1-1*, 2-1, 2-2 all had no obvious visible (to the unaided eye) signs of sedimentation at 1 month, 2 months, and 3 months. Formulations 4-1 and 5-1, each having tan delta values greater than 1 at 0.1 rads, showed visible (to the unaided eye) sedimentation.

EXAMPLE 4

[0131] The oral care compositions of the present invention can also be formed in gel mouth rinses. An example of a gel mouth rinse is provided in Table 10.

TABLE 10: Gel Mouth rinse

Ingredient	w/w%
Deionized Water	66.6255
Disodium EDTA	0.3000
Sodium Fluoride	0.1878
Alcohol	8.4211
Avicel CL-611	0.7000
Xanthan Gum	0.1500
Carrageenan	0.0500
Sorbitol	20.0000
Sucralose	0.1200
Sodium Saccharin	0.1170
Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate	0.8000
Cocamidopropyl Betaine	0.4000
Lauryl Glucoside	0.8000
Agar, Vitamin E Actate, Pigment	0.0500
Poloxamer 407	0.2500
Menthol	0.0840
Thymol	0.1278
Methyl Salicylate	0.1320
Eucalyptol	0.1844
Flavor	0.5000
Color	0.0004
Total	100.0000

[0132] The gel mouth rinse of Table 10 was prepared according to the following steps. In Step A, the disodium EDTA, sodium fluoride, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, and deionized water were mixed in a first beaker until all solids were dissolved.

[0133] In Step B, xanthan gum, in the form of a powder, was added to deionized water in a second beaker to create a 1% solution. Mixing was performed in a Silverson L4RT high shear mixer (Silverson Machines Inc. East Longmeadow, MA) until all solids were dissolved.

[0134] In Step C, deionized water was added to a third beaker. Using the Silverson L4RT high shear mixer, the carrageenan was dispersed in the water by sprinkling them in slowly, and mixing until homogeneous. The Avicel CL-611 microcrystalline cellulose/ sodium carboxy methylcellulose was sprinkled in, and the Silverson L4RT high shear mixer continued to operate until the mixture was homogeneous. The mixer was switched to Caframo mixer (Caframo Limited Wiarton, Ontario, Canada) and mixing continued. sorbitol, sodium saccharin, and sucralose were added, and the solution was mixed well until homogeneous. The lauryl glucoside was melted, and added to the batch, and mixing was continued until homogeneous. The xanthan gum solution (Step B, second beaker) was added to the batch, and mixing continued until homogenous. Then, the agar, vitamin E actate, pigment was added and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

[0135] In Step D (the alcohol phase), in a fourth beaker, ethanol and mint flavor, or ethanol, mint flavor, thymol, menthol, methyl salicylate, eucalyptol, and Poloxamer 407 were combined, and mixed until homogeneous.

[0136] In the final step, the contents of the fourth beaker (from Step D) were added to the third beaker (of Step C) and mixed well until homogenous. Finally, the contents of the first beaker (of Step A) were added to the main beaker and mixed until the batch was homogeneous.

Claims

1. An oral care composition consisting essentially of:

a) from 5% to 10% by weight of a insoluble particulate such as a dentally acceptable abrasive;

b) from 0.01% to 5% by weight of suspending polymer which is a mixture of 1) xanthan gum with 2) microcrystalline cellulose or a microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixture or a mixture of microcrystalline cellulose and a microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixture or mixtures of various microcrystalline cellulose and carboxy methylcellulose sodium mixtures;

c) from 0.1% to 5% surfactant or surfactant system;

d) at least 45% of a liquid carrier;

e) optionally a foam enhancing agent; and

f) optionally a foam generating agent;

wherein said composition has a tan delta of less than 1 at frequencies 0.1 to 100 rads^-1 as measured by an RFSII rheometer with couette geometry at a temperature of 25°C.

2. The oral care composition according to claim 1,
wherein the insoluble particulate is a dentally acceptable abrasive;
wherein said composition is essentially free (has less than 5%) of bioavailability affecting compounds and gellan gum, wherein the bioavailability affecting compounds include chemically unmodified clays, water soluble calcium salts, water soluble magnesium salts, water soluble aluminum salts, carbonate salts and mixtures thereof.

3. The oral care composition according to claim 1,
wherein said composition is essentially free (has less than 5%) of clay and gellan gum.

4. The oral care composition of any preceding claim wherein the dentally acceptable abrasive is selected from the group consisting of water insoluble calcium salts, alumina, silica, synthetic resins and mixtures thereof.

5. The oral care composition of claim 4 wherein the dentally acceptable abrasive is precipitated or milled silica.

6. The oral composition of any one of claim 1 to 5 wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting or nonionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, anionic surfactants and mixtures thereof.

7. The oral composition of claim 6, wherein the surfactant system comprises a combination of alkyl sarcosines, alkyl polyglucosides and alkylamidopropyl betaine surfactants.

8. The oral composition of any preceding claim further comprising a foam generating agent or materials.

9. The oral composition of claim 8 wherein the foam generating agent is a gas generating agent or materials selected from the group consisting of peroxide generating compounds; alkali metal bicarbonate salts such as sodium or potassium bicarbonate in combination with organic acids; compressed air, butane, isopentane, nitrous oxide or carbon dioxide; volatile hydrocarbons or mixture of volatile hydrocarbons; and mixtures thereof.

10. An oral care composition of any preceding claim for use in a method of cleaning the oral cavity comprising the steps of:

a) sipping a quantity of the oral care composition of any preceding claim;

b) swishing said composition around the oral cavity for a time to coat the teeth, and

c) optionally, expelling, swallowing or otherwise removing a portion or a substantial portion of the composition from the mouth.

11. The oral care composition for use according to claim 10 further comprising the step of brushing the teeth.

12. The oral care composition for use according to claim 11 wherein the bulk of the composition is removed.

Ansprüche

1. Mundpflegezusammensetzung, bestehend im Wesentlichen aus:

a) 5 Gew.-% bis 10 Gew.-% eines unlöslichen teilchenförmigen Materials wie beispielsweise eines dental verträglichen Schleifmittels;

b) 0,01 Gew.-% bis 5 Gew.-% Suspendierpolymer, wobei es sich dabei um eine Mischung von 1) Xanthangummi mit 2) mikrokristalliner Cellulose oder einer Mischung aus mikrokristalliner Cellulose und Carboxymethylcellulose-Natrium oder einer Mischung aus mikrokristalliner Cellulose und einer Mischung aus mikrokristalliner Cellulose und Carboxymethylcellulose-Natrium oder Mischungen verschiedener Mischungen aus mikrokristalliner Cellulose und Carboxymethylcellulose-Natrium handelt;

c) 0,1 % bis 5 % Tensid oder Tensidsystem;

d) mindestens 45 % eines flüssigen Trägers;

e) gegebenenfalls einem Schaum verstärkenden Mittel; und

f) gegebenenfalls einem Schaum erzeugenden Mittel:
wobei die Zusammensetzung einen Verlustfaktor Tan Delta von weniger als 1 bei Frequenzen von 0,1 bis 100 Rad^-1 bei Messung mit einem RFSII-Rheometer mit Couette-Geometrie bei einer Temperatur von 25 °C aufweist.

2. Mundpflegezusammensetzung nach Anspruch 1,
wobei das unlösliche teilchenförmige Material ein dental verträgliches Schleifmittel ist;
wobei die Zusammensetzung im Wesentlichen frei ist (weniger als 5 % aufweist) von die Bioverfügbarkeit beeinträchtigenden Verbindungen und Gellangummi, wobei die die Bioverfügbarkeit beeinträchtigenden Verbindungen chemisch nichtveränderte Tone, wasserlösliche Calciumsalze, wasserlösliche Magnesiumsalze, wasserlösliche Aluminiumsalze, Carbonatsalze und Mischungen davon einschließen.

3. Mundpflegezusammensetzung nach Anspruch 1,
wobei die Zusammensetzung im Wesentlichen frei ist (weniger als 5 % aufweist) von Ton und Gellangummi ist.

4. Mundpflegezusammensetzung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei das dental verträgliche Schleifmittel aus der Gruppe bestehend aus wasserunlöslichen Calciumsalzen, Aluminiumoxid, Siliciumdioxid, synthetischen Harzen und Mischungen davon ausgewählt ist.

5. Mundpflegezusammensetzung nach Anspruch 4, wobei das dental verträgliche Schleifmittel gefällte oder gemahlene Kieselsäure ist.

6. Mundpflegezusammensetzung nach einem Ansprüche 1 bis 5, wobei das Tensid aus der Gruppe bestehend aus nichtionischen Tensiden, amphoteren Tensiden, anionischen Tensiden und Mischungen davon ausgewählt ist.

7. Orale Zusammensetzung nach Anspruch 6, wobei das Tensidsystem eine Kombination aus Alkylsarcosinen, Alkylpolyglucosiden und Alkylamidopropylbetain-Tensiden umfasst.

8. Orale Zusammensetzung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, ferner umfassend ein Schaum erzeugendes Mittel oder Schaum erzeugende Materialien.

9. Orale Zusammensetzung nach Anspruch 8, wobei das Schaum erzeugende Mittel ein Gas erzeugendes Mittel ist oder Gas erzeugende Materialien sind, das bzw. die aus der Gruppe bestehend aus Peroxid erzeugenden Verbindungen; Alkalimetallbicarbonatsalzen wie Natrium- oder Kaliumbicarbonat in Kombination mit organischen Säuren; Druckluft, Butan, Isopentan, Stickstoffoxid oder Kohlendioxid; flüchtigen Kohlenwasserstoffen oder Mischungen von flüchtigen Kohlenwasserstoffen; und Mischungen davon ausgewählt ist bzw. sind.

10. Mundpflegezusammensetzung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche zur Verwendung in einem Verfahren zum Reinigen der Mundhöhle, umfassend die folgenden Schritte:

a) schluckweises Aufnehmen einer Menge der Mundpflegezusammensetzung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche;

b) Umherbewegen der Zusammensetzung in der Mundhöhle für eine Zeit, um die Zähne zu beschichten, und

c) gegebenenfalls Ausspucken, Schlucken oder anderweitig Entfernen eines Teils oder eines wesentlichen Teils der Zusammensetzung aus dem Mund.

11. Mundpflegezusammensetzung zur Verwendung nach Anspruch 10 ferner umfassend den Schritt des Putzens der Zähne.

12. Mundpflegezusammensetzung zur Verwendung nach Anspruch 11, wobei der Großteil der Zusammensetzung entfernt wird.

Revendications

1. Composition de soin buccal essentiellement constituée de :

a) de 5 % à 10 % en poids d'une substance particulaire insoluble telle qu'un abrasif acceptable en soins dentaires ;

b) de 0,01 % à 5 % en poids de polymère de suspension qui est un mélange de 1) gomme xanthane avec 2) de la cellulose microcristalline ou un mélange de cellulose microcristalline et de carboxyméthylcellulose sodique ou un mélange de cellulose microcristalline et d'un mélange de cellulose microcristalline et de carboxyméthylcellulose sodique ou des mélanges de différents mélanges de cellulose microcristalline et de carboxyméthylcellulose sodique ;

c) de 0,1 % à 5 % de tensioactif ou de système tensioactif ;

d) au moins 45 % d'un véhicule liquide ;

e) facultativement un agent d'augmentation de mousse ; et

f) facultativement un agent de génération de mousse ; ladite composition ayant un tan delta inférieur à 1 à des fréquences de 0,1 à 100 rad^-1 telles que mesurées par un rhéomètre RFSII avec une géométrie de Couette à une température de 25 °C.

2. Composition de soin buccal selon la revendication 1,
dans laquelle la substance particulaire insoluble est un abrasif acceptable en soins dentaires ; ladite composition étant pratiquement exempte (contient moins de 5 %) de composés affectant la biodisponibilité et de gomme gellane, dans laquelle les composés affectant la biodisponibilité comprennent des argiles non chimiquement modifiées, des sels de calcium hydrosolubles, des sels de magnésium hydrosolubles, des sels d'aluminium hydrosolubles, des sels de carbonate et des mélanges de ceux-ci.

3. Composition de soin buccal selon la revendication 1, ladite composition étant pratiquement exempte (contient moins de 5 %) d'argile et de gomme gellane.

4. Composition de soin buccal selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'abrasif acceptable en soins dentaires est choisi dans le groupe constitué de sels de calcium insolubles dans l'eau, d'alumine, de silice, de résines synthétiques et des mélanges de ceux-ci.

5. Composition de soin buccal selon la revendication 4, dans laquelle l'abrasif acceptable en soins dentaires est de la silice précipitée ou broyée.

6. Composition buccale selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, dans laquelle le tensioactif est choisi dans le groupe constitué de tensioactifs non ioniques, tensioactifs amphotères, tensioactifs anioniques et des mélanges de ceux-ci.

7. Composition buccale selon la revendication 6, dans laquelle le système tensioactif comprend une combinaison d'alkylsarcosines, d'alkylpolyglucosides et de tensioactifs à base d'alkylamidopropylbétaïne.

8. Composition buccale selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comprenant en outre un agent ou des matériaux de génération de mousse.

9. Composition buccale selon la revendication 8, dans laquelle l'agent de génération de mousse est un agent de génération de gaz ou des matériaux choisis dans le groupe constitué de composés de génération de peroxyde ; sels de bicarbonate de métal alcalin tels que le bicarbonate de sodium ou de potassium en combinaison avec des acides organiques ; air comprimé, butane, isopentane, oxyde nitreux ou dioxyde de carbone ; hydrocarbures volatils ou mélange d'hydrocarbures volatils ; et des mélanges de ceux-ci.

10. Composition de soin buccal selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes pour utilisation dans un procédé de nettoyage de la cavité buccale comprenant les étapes de :

a) absorption à petites gorgées d'une quantité de la composition de soin buccal selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes ;

b) circulation de ladite composition autour de la cavité buccale pendant un certain temps pour enduire les dents, et

c) facultativement, recrachement, avalement ou retrait d'une autre façon d'une partie ou d'une partie substantielle de la composition depuis la bouche.

11. Composition de soin buccal pour utilisation selon la revendication 10 comprenant en outre l'étape de brossage des dents.

12. Composition de soin buccal pour utilisation selon la revendication 11, la majeure partie de la composition étant retirée.