Disclosed are oral compositions comprising a
stannous ion source, a polyvalent cation source and a mineral surface
active agent, said compositions providing enhanced therapeutic
efficacy derived from stannous
fluoride and / or other stannous salt, including
antimicrobial effects, control of breath malodor, control of
dental plaque growth and
metabolism, reduced
gingivitis, decreased progression to
periodontal disease, reductions in dentinal hypersensitivity and reduced coronal and root dental caries. The aforementioned benefits are provided along with significant improvements compared to conventional stannous containing compositions, including: 1) reduced levels of dental
staining; 2) reduced astringency thereby improving aesthetic characteristics of the compositions; 3) reduction in dental calculus formation, and 4) enhanced stability,
bioavailability and thus,
efficacy of stannous. The mineral
surface active agents are agents that are substantive to mineral surfaces such as teeth and have chelating activity for polyvalent cations including stannous (Sn+2),
zinc (Zn+2),
copper (Cu+2), aluminum (Al+2), iron (Fe+2, Fe+3),
strontium (Sr+2),
calcium (Ca+2),
barium (Ba+2),
magnesium (Mg+2), and
manganese (Mn+2). Preferred mineral surface-active agents include polymers or copolymers containing
phosphate,
phosphonate, or carboxy groups. The compositions may also comprise a
fluoride ion source and may be formulated as
single phase or dual phase compositions.