| abstract |
This invention involves a composition for treating or preventing dental plaque, calculus and gingivitis, or malodor of the oral cavity, comprising: (a) (i) a source of a safe and effective amount of zinc ions; (ii) a source of citrate ions; and (iii) one or more anticalculus agents selected from the group consisting of pyrophosphate, phosphonate, diphosphonate and pharmaceutically-acceptable linear condensed polyphosphates of the general formula: (PnO(3n+1)(n+2)- wherein n is an integer from 2 to 21; wherein the molar ratio of zinc:citrate is at most about 1:1; the molar ratio of zinc:pyro is at most about 1:1; and (b) and a pharmaceutically-acceptable topical oral carrier. This invention also involves methods for treating or preventing dental plaque, calculus and gingivitis, or malador of the oral cavity, comprising administering to the oral cavity of a human or other animal such a composition. |