Abstract: The present invention relates to an oral composition containing a zinc compound containing free available zinc ion and at least one stabilized or stable Eh raising compound distributed in an oral vehicle. The present invention further relates to a method of inhibiting the formation of sulfur containing anions and preventing a reduction in the Eh of the oral cavity. A method of reducing oral malodor and gingivitis and periodontitis is also provided by this invention.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an oral composition containing a zinc compound containing free available zinc ion and at least one stabilized or stable Eh raising compound distributed in an oral vehicle. The present invention further relates to a method of inhibiting the formation of sulfur containing anions and preventing a reduction in the Eh of the oral cavity. A method of reducing oral malodor and gingivitis and periodontitis is also provided by this invention.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods for calcifying dental tissue, e.g., preventing or treating dental hypersensitivity. An oral composition of arginine bicarbonate and calcium carbonate promotes the formation of dentinal tubule plugs aided by combining calcium and phosphate in the fluid. In a specific example, an arginine bicarbonate/calcium carbonate mixture blocked dentinal tubules in a model system. In addition to treating dentinal sensitivity, the compositions and methods of the invention provide for calcifying exposed tooth pulp, calcifying the base or all of a pit or fissure in a tooth, and treating a carious lesion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to oral compositions containing anti-caries agents distributed in an oral vehicle. In particular, the present invention provides oral compositions containing calcium, arginine and a cariostatic anion distributed in an oral vehicle. A method for preparing oral compositions containing anti-caries agents is also provided by the present invention. A method of reducing dental caries is described which comprises delivering a therapeutically effective amount of an oral composition containing calcium, arginine and a cariostatic anion into the oral cavity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to oral compositions containing anti-caries agents distributed in an oral vehicle. In particular, the present invention provides oral compositions containing calcium, arginine and a cariostatic anion distributed in an oral vehicle. A method for preparing oral compositions containing anti-caries agents is also provided by the present invention. A method of reducing dental caries is described which comprises delivering a therapeutically effective amount of an oral composition containing calcium, arginine and a cariostatic anion into the oral cavity.

Abstract: Oral malodor and periodontitis are common problems affecting a large percentage of the population. The present invention provides a method of assessing an individual's oral malodor producing capacity and potential for developing periodontitis. In particular, the present invention is directed to identifying those individuals prone to oral malodor and periodontitis by measuring the formation of volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) and reduction in E.sub.h following a challenge with cysteine or cystine. A method of assessing the effectiveness of a dental therapeutic or device to treat oral malodor and/or periodontitis is also provided by this invention.

Abstract: The present invention relates to oral compositions containing anti-caries agents distributed in an oral vehicle. In particular, the present invention provides oral compositions containing calcium, arginine and a cariostatic anion distributed in an oral vehicle. A method for preparing oral compositions containing anti-caries agents is also provided by the present invention. A method of reducing dental caries is described which comprises delivering a therapeutically effective amount of an oral composition containing calcium, arginine and a cariostatic anion into the oral cavity.

Abstract: A dispenser for an aqueous sialogogue for the mouth comprises:a) a reservoir for the aqueous sialogogue solution;b) passage means leading from the reservoir to a spray head; andc) a plurality of orifices in the spray head, whereby actuating the spray head causes a plurality of streams to be directed to those regions of the mouth most dry in a reniform pattern.Preferably a metered amount of sialogogue is delivered by an actuating means selected from the group consisting of a hand-activating spray pump, a bulb-activated spray pump or an aerosol propellant.The sialogogue solution comprises:a) from about 2 to about 3 wgt % of food-grade organic acidulant;b) a food-grade sweetener benign to stomic microflora; andc) a saturated calcium phosphate solution, whereby the production of human saliva is promoted in situ without corrosion, infection, or dissolution of human teeth.

Abstract: An aqueous liquid for promoting the production of human saliva in situ comprises:(a) about 2 to 3 wgt percent organic acidulent such as citric, malic, or ascorbic acid;(b) about 0.5 to 2.5 wgt percent of a natural, food-grade sweetener such as fructose or 0.05 to 0.5 wgt percent of a synthetic sweetener such as aspartame or saccharin; and(c) a saturated calcium phosphate solution.The preferred form of the aqueous liquid is a metered, hand-actuated, aerosol spray of about 0.15 ml. per actuation.By employing the aqueous liquid of the invention the production of saliva is tripled, thus alleviating the many symptoms of xerostomia no matter what its cause.

Abstract: This patent relates to a bifurcated vessel for the collection of saliva comprising:(a) a receptacle open at one end and divided into two chambers for holding liquid;(b) an open edge portion angularly disposed integral with one of said chambers to constitute a flared funnel to said chamber; and(c) a second open edge portion angularly disposed to and integral with the other of said two chambers to constitute a flared funnel.

Abstract: Destruction of tooth tissues due to various microorganisms is slowed or prevented by introducing into the mouth arginine or an arginine precursor, especially peptides having from 2-4 amino acid units at least one of which is arginine.

Abstract: Destruction of tooth tissues due to various microorganisms is slowed or prevented by introducing into the mouth arginine or an arginine precursor, especially peptides having from 2-4 amino acid units at least one of which is arginine.

Abstract: A source of ultra violet light is directed onto the teeth of a patient via a mouthpiece which engages the gums above and below the tooth lines. A camera is attached and pictures may be taken of the teeth. By detecting differences in ultra violet absorption and reflection on the teeth, the detection of carious lesions may be undertaken in the relatively early stage of their development. Furthermore, deposits of dental plaque may be photographed readily and easily. The mouthpiece which may be disposable, is detachably securable to a base and is shaped at the mouth engaging end to engage the gums and hold the lips clear of the teeth during photography. It may be positioned in several locations relative to the mouth so that all of the teeth may be photographed and a mirror assembly may be attached so that the lingual and occlusal surfaces of the teeth may be photographed.

Abstract: Destruction of tooth tissues due to various microorganisms is slowed or prevented by introducing into the mouth arginine or an arginine precursor, especially peptides having from 2-4 amino acid units at least one of which is arginine.