| abstract |
The present invention relates to compositions and methods for inhibiting plaque. In particular, this invention relates to oral compositions comprising: (a) a safe and effective amount of a plaque-inhibiting carboxy starch polymer comprising the formula <IMAGE> wherein W and X are independently selected from CH2OH, CHO and CO2H, or the neutralized carboxylic acid salts thereof, Y and Z are independently selected from CHO and CO2H, or the neutralized carboxylic acid salts thereof, n is in the range of from about 5 to about 2500, m is in the range of from 0 to about 2500, provided that the sum of n and m ranges from about 5 to about 2500, and the degree of carboxylation of said active agent ranges from about 1 to about 3; and (b) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. These compositions inhibit plaque without staining the teeth which are contacted with the composition. This invention also relates to a method of inhibiting plaque on tooth surfaces in the oral cavity. This method involves applying a safe and effective amount of the carboxy starch polymer active agent to the oral cavity. Such an application is typically made by applying the above-described oral compositions containing the carboxy starch polymer to the oral cavity. The application does not stain the teeth on which it is made. |