Abstract: A desensitizing agent for the cleaning and treatment of sensitive teeth comprising a copolymer having repeating hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions. Preferred examples include polysoaps such as: a monovalent salt of a hydrolyzed copolymer of an &agr;-olefin and maleic anhydride:, e.g., structually represented as: The copolymer forms micelles in aqueous dispersions such as toothpaste and mouthwash formulations. When applied thereon by brushing or rinsing or other method of application, the copolymers occlude the tubules and seal them off from the external oral environment and thereby alleviate the pain caused by the tooth's sensitivity.

Abstract: Phosphate-free oral compositions containing cationically charged colloids are effective to treat tooth hypersensitivity.

Abstract: A composition containing a water soluble or water swellable polyelectrolyte mixed salt in a dentifrice base or other oral compositions which can be used for relieving pain and discomfort caused by hypersensitive teeth.

Abstract: A composition containing a water soluble or water swellable polyelectrolyte or salts thereof in a dentifrice base or other oral compositions which can be used for relieving pain and discomfort caused by hypersensitive teeth. The salts can be single or mixed partial salts of the polyelectrolyte.

Abstract: A blood clot filtration device, for implantation percutaneously, for preventing movement of blood clots within a blood vessel. The device has a head and a plurality of legs extending therefrom. The legs include a first linear leg portion of predetermined length emanating distally from the head generally parallel to the axis of the device; a second multi-angled leg portion of relatively greater length extending generally outwardly from the distal end of the first linear leg portion at an acute angle to the axis, to form, with other second leg portions, a conical aspect, the second leg portion having a series of discrete linear segments arrayed generally tangent to a cone defined by the second leg portions of the set of legs; and a hook portion at the distal end of each the leg extending outwardly, away from the axis in a manner for engaging the blood vessel to fix the position of the device therewithin.