| abstract |
The dentifrice compositions comprise compositions which include detersive amounts of an oral surfactant and at least 1 % by weight of a benzoic acid salt or derivative thereof effective to remove plaque from dental surfaces. The combination of the foregoing active ingredients is particularly effective against plaque when used in the compositions of the present invention. The compositions of the present invention include a dentifrice carrier containing at least 1 % by weight of a benzoic acid salt and detersive amounts of an oral surfactant. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a toothpaste formulation is provided, which has, as one of its active ingredients, at least about 6 % by weight of a benzoic acid salt. The carrier is any paste, or gel or the like capable of being applied to a toothbrush and brushed onto the teeth. The powder compositions of this invention may be adapted for brushing application onto the teeth in the oral cavity or for use on dentures or other synthetic surfaces outside the oral cavity. |