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Title:
DENTURE CLEANSER COMPOSITION
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/1995/015145
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
An anhydrous denture cleansing composition is disclosed comprising anhydrous perborate, a perborate monohydrate, a lubricant and compression aid, a monopersulfate, one or proteolytic enzymes, a sequestering agent, and, optionally, excipients, builders, colors, flavors, and surfactants.

Inventors:
EOGA ANTHONY B
MORAN RICHARD G
Application Number:
PCT/US1994/013730
Publication Date:
June 08, 1995
Filing Date:
November 30, 1994
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
WARNER LAMBERT CO (US)
International Classes:
A61K8/00; A61K8/04; A61K8/22; A61K8/23; A61K8/38; A61K8/41; A61K8/66; A61K8/81; A61Q11/02; C11D3/386; C11D3/39; C11D17/00; (IPC1-7): A61K7/30
Domestic Patent References:
WO1992010165A11992-06-25
Foreign References:
EP0253772A21988-01-20
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Claims:
In the Claims
1. A denture cleansing composition comprising: (a) a pregranulated compressed mixture of an anhydrous perborate in an amount of from about 5% to about 25% by weight of said composition, a perborate monohydrate, and a lubricant and compression aid, wherein the weight ratio of anhydrous perborate to said perborate monohydrate in said pregranulated mixture is from about 1 :3 to about 1 :1, the amount of perborate monohydrate in the premixture being reflected by the ratio; and (b) a monopersulfate compound in an amount of from about 15% to about 27% by weight of said composition; and (c) a nongranulated perborate monohydrate wherein the total amount of granulated and nongranulated perborate monohydrate is in an amount of from about 30% to about 60% by weight of said denture cleansing composition; and (d) an effective amount of one or more proteolytic enzyme to disrupt the proteinaceous material in plaque; and (e) an effective amount of a sequestering agent to remove calcium deposits and calculus deposits.
2. The denture cleansing composition of claim 1 wherein; (i) said anhydrous perborate is potassium or sodium anhydrous perborate; (ii) said lubricant and compression aid is in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 0.8% by weight of said pregranulated compressed mixture, and wherein said lubricant and compression aid is polytetrafluorethylene; (iii) said monopersulfate compound is a triple potassium salt with the formula KHS05'KHS04K2S04 and a mole ratio of 2:1 :1 ; (iv) said proteolytic enzyme is in an amount of from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight of said composition, and wherein said proteolytic enzyme is "ESPERASE"; (v) said sequestering agent is in an amount of from about 1% to about 25% by weight of said composition, and wherein said sequestering agent is Na4EDTA*2H20.
3. The composition of claim 1 wherein said proteolytic enzyme is "ESPERASE".
4. The composition of claim 1 wherein said proteolytic enzymes are present in an amount from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight of said composition.
5. A denture cleansing composition comprising: (a) a pregranulated compressed mixture of an anhydrous perborate in an amount of from about 5% to about 25% by weight of said composition, a perborate monohydrate, and a lubricant and compression aid, wherein the weight ratio of anhydrous perborate to said perborate monohydrate in said pregranulated mixture is from about 1 :3 to about 1 :1 , the amount of perborate monohydrate in the premixture being reflected by the ratio; and (b) a monopersulfate compound in an amount of from about 15% to about 27% by weight of said composition; and (c) nongranulated perborate monohydrate wherein the total amount of granulated and nongranulated perborate monohydrate is in an amount of from about 30% to about 60% by weight of said denture cleansing composition; and (d) an effective amount of a sequestering agent to remove calcium deposits and calculus deposits.
6. The denture cleansing composition of claim 5 wherein; (i) said anhydrous perborate is potassium or sodium anhydrous perborate; (ii) said lubricant and compression aid is in an amount of from about 0.1% to about 0.8% by weight of said pregranulated compressed mixture, and wherein said lubricant and compression aid is polytetrafluorethylene; (iii) said monopersulfate compound is a triple potassium salt with the formula KHS05'KHS04K2S04 and a mole ratio of 2:1 :1 ; and (iv) said sequestering agent is in an amount of from about 1% to about 25% by weight of said composition, and wherein said sequestering agent is Na4EDTA2H20.
7. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said anhydrous perborate comprises from about 10% to about 20% by weight of said composition.
8. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said anhydrous perborate comprises from about 13% to about 14% by weight of said composition.
9. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said perborate monohydrate comprises from about 30% to about 40% by weight of the total cleansing composition.
10. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said lubricant and compression aid is polytetrafluourethylene.
11. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said lubricant and compression aid comprises from about 0.1% to about 0.8% by weight of the pregranulated compressed mixture.
12. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said monopersulfate compound is a triple potassium salt with the formula KHS05" KHS04"K2S04 and a mole ratio of 2:1 :1.
13. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said sequestering agent is EDTA.
14. The composition of claim 13, wherein said EDTA is Na4EDTA2H20.
15. The composition of claim 14, wherein said Na4EDTA*2H20 comprises from about 1% to about 25% by weight of said composition.
16. The composition of claim 15, wherein the meshsize profile of said EDTA is a maximum of 40% through U.S.S. 100 mesh sieve, a maximum of 65% on the U.S.S. 40 mesh sieve and a maximum of 0.2% remaining on the U.S.S. 20 mesh sieve.
17. The composition of claim 14, wherein the chelating value of said Na4EDTA.2H20 is at least about 248.
18. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said monopersulfate is selected from the group consisting of alkali metal monopersulfates and alkaline earth metal monopersulfates.
19. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said monopersulfate is sodium or potassium monopersulfate.
20. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said anhydrous perborate is selected from the group consisting of alkali metal perborates and alkaline earth metal perborates.
21. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said anhydrous perborate is potassium or sodium anhydrous perborate.
22. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein the weight ratio of perborate monohydrate to anhydrous perborate to polymeric fluorocarbon compound is about 54.2:45.2:0.6.
23. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein said perborate monohydrate is potassium or sodium perborate monohydrate.
24. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein the weight ratio of perborate monohydrate/monopersulfate compound is from about 3:1 to about 1 :1.
25. The composition of claim 24, wherein the weight ratio of perborate monohydrate/monopersulfate compound is about 1.7:1.
26. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein the free surface water moisture content of a tablet made from said composition comprises preferably less than about 0.3% by weight of the composition.
27. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein a detergent is a component of said composition.
28. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein the tablet composition is characterized by active oxygen levels in the range from about 100 to about 200 mg/tablet.
29. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein the composition is characterized by fragrance retention levels greater than about 50% throughout a period of six hours or greater.
30. The composition of claims 1 and 5, wherein the composition is characterized by fragrance retention levels greater than about 50% throughout a period of 16 hours.
31. A process for preparing a denture cleansing composition according to claims 1 and 5 comprising the steps of: (a) preparing a compacted compressed mixture comprising anhydrous perborate salts and perborate monohydrate salts in combination with a lubricant and compression aid; and (b) grinding said compacted mixture into a pregranulation mixture, or premix; and (c) adding the pregranulation mixture, or premix, to the other materials in the denture cleansing composition and mixing; and (d) adding detergent to the mixture and mixing for up to 3 minutes; and (e) forming the resultant blended mixture into a cohesive tablet.
32. The process of claim 31 wherein said compacted mixture is predried to a free moisture level of about 0.3% to about 1.5% by weight of the compacted mixture.
33. The process of claim 32 wherein said compacted mixture is predried to a free moisture level of less than about 0.3% by weight of the compacted mixture.
Description:
DENTURE CLEANSER COMPOSITION

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to a denture cleansing composition and a process for making such a composition. The denture cleansing composition may optionally contain enzymes and can effectively remove stains similar to known denture cleansing formulations. The composition also exhibits longer lasting fragrance retention over known denture cleansing formulations. This is especially true for those who soak their dentures overnight.

2. Description of the Related Art

Denture cleansing generally is carried out either by brushing dentures with a paste or by soaking dentures overnight in an aqueous cleansing solution. Aqueous denture cleanser solutions are known and generally comprise tablets, granules, or powders that are dissolved in water to form a cleansing bath or cleansing system in water.

Denture cleansing compositions, such as effervescent tablets and powders, are well known in the art. Traditionally, these compositions have contained a variety of sulfate salts, such as bisulfates, monopersulfates, and sulfates as detergents, oxidizers and the like, and have also utilized alkali metal and alkaline earth metal halides as bleaches. Such compositions have also included perborate, carbonate and phosphate salts in varying amounts to provide effervescence and activation. Representative examples of cleansing compositions covering these various materials are set forth in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,337,466, 3,704,227, 4,362,639 and 4,857,224.

The cleansing systems produced by these compositions when dissolved in water have drawbacks. The pH of the aqueous solution is too low (i.e. toe acidic) or too high (i.e. too basic) for the retention of fragrances.

In addition, the reaction of monopersulfates in the compositions with

chlorides in the water produces a hypochlorite which reacts with expensive fragrances in the compositions, depressing their efficacy. Moreover, known denture cleansers can be formulated to provide an initial fragrance level when the cleanser is in a tablet form, but they cannot be formulated to maintain the level of fragrance upon dissolution without compromising the hardness of the tablet, or maintain the level of fragrance when the resultant solution is allowed to stand overnight.

The fragrance of a denture cleaning composition in aqueous solution is an important feature. The sweet or pleasant odors which emanate from the compositions are due to the introduction of ingredients such as oils. The presence of a fragrance is aesthetically pleasing to a consumer, as well as an indicator to a consumer that a product works effectively. Consumers are more likely to purchase a denture cleanser characterized as having longer fragrance retention levels. This is especially true for those who soak their dentures overnight.

Many denture cleansing compositions also feature the use of alkaline proteolytic enzymatic cleansing agents. The use of enzymes in denture cleansing compositions, however, has many drawbacks. The pH of the aqueous solutions of many systems is too low or too high for fully effective cleaning enzyme activity. Also, the reaction of the monopersulfate in the compositions with chlorides in the water produces hypochlorite which inactivates the cleaning enzymes in the compositions, further depressing their efficacy.

The use in denture cleansing compositions of perborate monohydrates that do not inactivate proteolytic cleaning enzymes either directly or indirectly is known. However, the use of potassium monopersulfate in the form of "OXONE", in the presence of perborate monohydrate, in a weight ratio of approximately 3:1 has been shown to result in the formation of a sufficient amount of hypochlorite in water to deactivate alkaline proteolytic cleaning

enzymes. U.S. Patent No. 5,118,623 to George Boguslawski and John W. Shultz of Solvay Enzyme Inc., issued June 2, 1992, discloses that many cleaning enzymes are inactivated in the presence of chlorine and-other halogens. A paper by Waku et al, CA 78(17):107533p discloses inactivity of enzymes in the presence of as little as 0.2 parts per million free chlorine.

There have been efforts, with limited success, to develop compositions in which deactivation of cleaning enzymes and fragrances do not occur, while good denture cleaning efficacy is still provided.

U.S. Patent No.4,409,118 to Anthony Eoga, issued October 11 , 1983, discloses an effervescent cleansing composition in tablet form comprising:

(1) a phosphate salt; (2) a silicate salt; and (3) at least one perborate salt.

At least part of the perborate salt is in a compacted granulated mixture with a polymeric fluorocarbon.

U.S. Patent No.4,857,224, to Anthony Eoga, issued August 15, 1989, discloses an effervescent cleansing composition in tablet form comprising: (1) a pregranulated and compressed mixture of an anhydrous perborate, a perborate monohydrate and a polymeric fluorocarbon compound, and (2) a monopersulfate compound. This composition is useful for forming a tablet from monopersulfates and anhydrous perborates.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION One object of the invention is to provide a denture cleansing composition with reduced hypochlorite formation, thereby eliminating the problem of fragrance instability.

A further object of the invention is to provide a denture cleansing composition with reduced hypochlorite formation, thereby eliminating the problem of deactivation of alkaline proteolytic cleaning enzymes.

A further object of the invention is to provide a denture cleansing composition capable of dissolving in an aliquot of water to produce a denture cleansing bath having a pH which does not lead to fragrance instability.

A further object of the invention is to provide a denture cleansing composition capable of dissolving in an aliquot of water to produce a denture cleansing bath having a pH suitable for alkaline proteolytic enzymatic cleaning of dentures.

A further object of the invention is to provide a superior denture cleansing composition that does not require added water in the composition or curing when the composition is in tablet form.

A further object of the invention is to provide a denture cleansing composition, which in tablet form provides an initial fragrance, a burst of fragrance upon dissolution, and retains a substantial amount of fragrance when the resultant solution is allowed to stand overnight.

A further object of the invention is to provide a denture cleansing composition capable of removing non-stained plaque, stained plaque, non- stained tartar, stained tartar, and any residue or aftertaste which appears to result from a combination of plaque, stained plaque, tartar and stained tartar.

A further object of the invention is to provide a denture cleansing composition that in tablet form is compressible at the high speeds necessary for commercial production, yet retains its efficacy and stability.

A further object of the invention is to provide a denture cleansing composition, which in tablet form is capable of being compressed to a hardness of at least about 15 SCU.

Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description that follows. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and attained by means of the examples and combinations described in detail herein and in the appended claims.

These and other objectives are achieved by the present invention, which relates to new denture cleansing compositions and their method of preparation comprising:

(a) a pregranulated compressed mixture of an anhydrous perborate, a perborate monohydrate and a lubricant and compression aid; and

(b) a monopersulfate compound;

(c) non-granulated perborate monohydrate;

(d) an effective amount of a proteolytic cleaning enzyme to disrupt the proteinaceous material in plaque;

(e) an effective amount of sequestering agent such as ethylene diamine tetracetic acid (herein "EDTA") to remove calcium deposits and calculus (also referred to herein as "tartar" deposits). The relative amounts of proteolytic enzyme and sequestering agent is sufficient to be effective to remove stains from both plaque and calculus deposits; and

(f) an effervescence-producing composition, wherein the concomitant disruption of proteinaceous material and the sequestering of calcium and calculus deposits results in the removal of calculus and plaque deposits as well as the removal of stained calculus and stained plaque deposits.

These and other objectives are also achieved by the present invention, which relates to new non-enzymatic denture cleansing compositions and their method of preparation comprising: (a) a pregranulated compressed mixture of an anhydrous perborate, a perborate monohydrate and a lubricant and compression aid;

(b) a monopersulfate compound;

(c) non-granulated perborate monohydrate;

(d) an effective amount of sequestering agent such as ethylene diamine tetracetic acid (herein "EDTA") to remove calcium deposits and calculus (also referred to herein as "tartar" deposits); and

(e) an effervescence-producing composition, wherein the ratio of anhydrous perborate and monohydrate perborate to monopersulfates and the sequestering of calcium and calculus deposits results in the removal of calculus and plaque deposits and stains as well as the retention of fragrances.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to improved denture cleansing compositions containing EDTA, anhydrous perborate, perborate monohydrate, polymeric fluorocarbon, and optionally proteolytic cleaning enzymes that has excellent cleaning properties and, in one embodiment, can be easily tableted and packaged using high speed equipment. The invention also provides a denture cleansing composition that exhibits a pronounced fragrance in tablet form, that provides a burst of fragrance when dissolved in solution, and that provides for an enhanced fragrance retention in solution overnight. The invention also provides a composition for efficient cleaning of the dentures by brushing. The invention further provides for the removal of residue from dentures after simple rinsing of the dentures under warm water.

In one embodiment, the inventive composition in one embodiment seeks to solve some of the fragrance and cleaning problems associated with the inclusion of enzymes in denture cleansing compositions. The new inventive composition provides cleaning efficacy and fast dissolution as required of denture cleansers. In addition, the components of this denture cleanser react less with the fragrance additives than the components of other denture cleansers. Therefore, less fragrance additives are needed to

produce the desired fragrance effect, thereby lowering cost. Additionally, the compositions formed from these new compositions exhibit a strong fragrance. The solution formed from the compositions provides an initial burst of fragrance, and the solution retains a substantial amount of fragrance when used for soaking dentures overnight.

The capability of a aqueous solution of a denture cleansing composition to retain fragrances is dependent primarily upon active oxygen levels, the type of active ingredients and the pH of the final solution. An active oxygen level is defined as the percent of reactive oxygen which is released in solution from oxygen precursors known to those of skill in the art, such as perborates, persulfates or peroxides. Fragrance retention is defined as the ability of the fragrance to retain a substantial amount of the fragrance profile over a period of time. Effervescent formulations in the form of powders or tablets containing oxygen precursors dissolve and release an effervescent gas such as oxygen. The gas bubbles, as they pass the denture, contribute a gentle mechanical cleansing action and thus help to remove paniculate matter and tend to remove stains thereon and provide antiseptic action. In addition, the oxygen acts as a vehicle for fragrances to be released to the surrounding environment providing a aesthetically pleasing aroma.

Traditionally, the leading known commercial denture cleansing compositions contain active oxygen levels in the range from about 60 to about 115 mg/tablet. The active oxygen levels remaining in a denture cleansing solution after a period of about six hours is in the range from about

20% to about 25%.

The denture cleansing compositions of the present invention, however, contain active oxygen levels in the range from about 100 to about

200 mg/tablet, preferably in the range from about 120 to about 170 mg/tablet, most preferably in the range from about 130 to about 165

mg/tablet. The active oxygen levels remaining in a denture cleansing solution after a period of six hours or greater is about 50%, preferably in the range from about 60% to about 90%, most preferably in the range from about 80% to about 90%. Moreover, the denture cleansing compositions of the present invention while in solution have active oxygen levels remaining after a period of 16 hours or greater than 50%, preferably in the range from about 60% to about 90%, most preferably in the range from about 80% to about 90%.

Without intending to be bound by theory, the compositions of the present invention use an excess of perborate monohydrate over any persulfates. The reaction essentially completely depletes the persulfates while reserving sufficient amounts of oxygen precursors to provide high active oxygen levels, thus preventing the formation of hypochlorites due to the chlorides in the raw materials and aqueous solution. As discussed above, hypochlorites are known to destroy fragrances which are present in the product for cleaning and consumer acceptance. Thus, the fragrance becomes readily available not only as a burst of fragrance when the composition is dissolved in water, but it also provides retained fragrance over an extended period of time.

The anhydrous perborate is preferably an alkali metal perborate or an alkaline earth metal perborate. The amount of anhydrous perborate in the composition can be between about 5% and about 25% by weight of the composition, preferably the amount of anhydrous perborate in the composition is between about 10% and about 20% by weight of the composition, most preferably the amount of anhydrous perborate in the composition is between about 13% and about 14% by weight of the composition. The amount of perborate monohydrate in the composition can be between about 30% to about 60% by weight of the composition, preferably the amount of perborate monohydrate in the composition is between about 30% and about 40% by weight of the composition, most

preferably the amount of perborate monohydrate in the composition is between about 33% and about 35% by weight of the composition.

The weight ratio of anhydrous perborate to perborate monohydrate in the composition is from about 1 :3 to about 1 :1. The preferred perborate monohydrate is a non-compacted sodium perborate monohydrate in the form of a predried product containing about 0.3% to about 1.5% by weight of water, and preferably less than about 0.2% to about 0.3% by weight of water.

The invention also comprises lubricant and compression aids. Lubricant and compression aids insure good release of tablets from the tablet die and are well known in the art. Sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium benzoate, polyethylene glycol, talc, metal stearates and polymeric fluorocarbons are all known and acceptable lubricant and compression aids.

Although it is insoluble, polytetrafluoroethylene (herein "PTFE") is the preferred lubricant and compression aid. The lubricant and compression aid comprises from about 0.1 to about 0.8% by weight of the pregranulation mixture of anhydrous perborate, sodium perborate monohydrate, and polymeric fluorocarbon.

Where a high degree of initial solution clarity is needed, the PTFE may be present in the amounts from about 0.1% to about 0.8%, and more preferably in tablet form from about 0.5% to about 0.7% PTFE by weight of the composition, and in powder form from about 0.14% to about 0.16%

PTFE by weight of the composition. Although PTFE is insoluble, its use within the limit ranges described herewith results in the majority of the PTFE becoming entrapped in the effervescent foam and the solution appears relatively clear.

The monopersulfate compound used in the composition is preferably an alkali metal monopersulfate or an alkaline earth metal monopersulfate.

A preferred salt is potassium monopersulfate, especially when present in tne form of a triple salt compound with potassium bisulfate and potassium sulfate, e.g. KHS0 5 * KHS0 4 -K 2 S0 4 . This triple potassium salt is available commercially from E.I. duPont DeNemours & Co., Inc. and is sold in the mole ratio 2:1 :1 under the trademark "OXONE."

The OXONE" used in the composition is from about 15% to about 27% by weight of the total composition, preferably from about 18% to about 23%, and most preferably from about 20% to about 21%.

As indicated above, the use of a proteolytic cleaning enzyme is optional. When the denture cleansing composition employ an enzyme, the proteolytic cleaning enzyme for removing proteinaceous material or plaque, and calculus or tartar deposits on dentures is preferably a protease such as "ESPERASE". A number of other known proteases that are particularly active in the pH range of from about 9 to about 10.5 are also acceptable. The enzymes that are active in the range of from about 9.3 to about 9.9 are preferred. The enzymes that are active in the range of from about 9.5 to about 9.7 are most preferred. The enzyme may be present in amounts of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight of the composition. Preferably the enzyme comprises about 0.4% to about 3.8% by weight of the composition. Most preferably the enzyme comprises about 1.7% to about 2.8% by weight of the composition. The enzyme should have an activity of 12 KNPU/gram plus or minus about 20%.

Examples of suitable commercially available proteases include "ALCALASE", "SAVINASE", "ESPERASE" (an alkalophiiic variant of Bacillus licheniformis). all commercially available from Novo-Nordisk Industries A/S; "MEXATASE" and "MAXACAL" from Gift-Brocades, "KUZUSASE" of Showa Denko; and "BPN" protease from Bacillus subtilus. made by Genincor or

Sigma. The activity of the proteolytic enzyme included in the composition

typically ranges from about 0.1-150 AU/g or its equivalent. Mixtures oτ different proteolytic enzymes may also be used.

Standard measures of enzyme activity include the Anson Unit (AU), the Kilo Novo Protease Unit (KNPU), and the Glycine Unit (GU). These measures of enzyme activity are well known and defined as follows:

One Anson Unit is the amount of enzyme that digests hemoglobin at an initial rate such that there is liberated per minute an amount of TCA- soluble product which gives the same color with phenol reagent as one milliequivalent of tyrosine. The reaction conditions for this measure are given in NIAS method AF4/5-GB, Modified Anson-Hemoglobin Method for the Determination of Proteolytic Activity.

One Glycine Unit is the amount of enzyme that produces the equivalent of one micromole of glycine per minute under assay conditions.

One Kilo Novo Protease Unit (KNPU) is the amount of enzyme that hydrolyses casein at such a rate that the initial rate of formation of peptide/minute corresponds to I mole of glycine/minute. The standard conditions for carrying out this test are given in NIAS method AF 162/3-6B Manual DMC (dimethyl casein) Method for the Determination of Proteolytic Activity. The proteolytic enzyme of the invention should have an activity of 12 KNPU/gram plus or minus about 20%.

Sequestering agents are added to the composition to maintain clarity and to promote calculus, or tartar, removal. The sequestering agent also helps to stabilize any hydrogen peroxide present. Hydrogen peroxide is generated from sodium perborate monohydrate which reacts with heavy metals to form H 2 0+0 2 - thereby reducing the active oxygen content. The

EDTA cheiates any metals in the solution before they can react with the hydrogen peroxide.

Preferred sequestering agents include ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid ("EDTA") and its corresponding alkali salts, as well as other polyfunctional organic acids, such as citric acid, maleic acid, fumaric acid and their corresponding salts. The EDTA may be present in amounts of about 1% to 25% by weight of the composition, preferably about 17% to about 23% by weight of the composition, and most preferably about 19% to 21 % by weight of the composition.

The EDTA is preferably present as Na^EDTA^H^O, and is preferably dried to a chelating value of 248 or more such that the chelating value is at a sufficient level to compensate for the water which is present in the composition. In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the EDTA is milled to a U.S.S. mesh size profile in the range of a maximum of 40% through U.S.S. 100 mesh sieve, a maximum of 65% on the U.S. S. 40 mesh sieve and a maximum of 0.2% remaining on the U.S.S. 20 mesh sieve. In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the EDTA is milled to a U.S.S. mesh size profile in the range of a maximum of 20% through U.S.S. 100 mesh sieve, a maximum of 65% on the U.S.S. 40 mesh sieve and a maximum of 0.2% remaining on the U.S.S. 20 mesh sieve. Most preferably, EDTA is milled to a U.S.S mesh size profile of:

Maximum of 0.2% on U.S.S. 20 Mesh Maximum of 25% on U.S.S. 40 Mesh Maximum of 20% through U.S.S. 100 Mesh When the denture composition is in tablet form, the use of EDTA with a mesh-size profile of greater than 25% through U.S.S. 100 mesh results in the preparation of a tablet with reduced hardness.

Where an enzyme comprises the denture cleansing compositions of the present invention, there is believed to be a synergistic action between the enzyme and sequestering agent that allows for a more complete removal of both plaque and calculus on dentures. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that the sequestering agent functions in the solution of

the invention by reacting with the calcium present in the caicuius iπai accumulates on dentures during the day. This reaction renders underlying proteinaceous material, i.e., plaque, on the dentures susceptible to attack by a proteolytic enzyme when present in the solution. The enzyme in turn attacks this plaque, thereby exposing more calculus to attack by the sequestering agent. Adsorbed stains, especially those due to accumulated calculus, that had been beyond the reach of single cleansing ingredients are also susceptible to removal by the denture compositions of this invention.

Free halogens, especially chlorine, typically found in tap water and other raw materials, can inactivate proteolytic cleaning enzymes in a system that also includes perborate and monopersulfate. This invention overcomes this problem by using a weight ratio of from about 3:1 to about 1 :1 , more preferably about 1.7:1 , of perborate monohydrate to "OXONE". This ratio reduces the formation of hypochlorite and free chlorine. In a system with this perborate/persulfate ratio, if proteolytic cleaning enzymes are employed, they are not inactivated and are more available for use in synergistic combination with the sequestering agents to remove plaque and calculus deposits, and stained plaque and stained calculus deposits.

Moreover, in a system with this perborate/persulfate ratio range, fragrances are not inactivated and are more available as a burst of fragrance when a tablet is dissolved in water. It also provides for retained fragrance overnight.

Colorants and fragrances may also be used with the composition of this invention. F.D.& C. and D.& C. dyes and lakes and natural colors may be used. The materials acceptable for the foregoing spectrum of use are preferably water soluble, but they may include water insoluble dye materials found in the Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, Volume #5, pages 857-884, which text is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

The fragrance is preferably spray dried and prepared to a tree moisture content of less than about 5.0% and preferably less than about 3.0%.

The fragrances can be any known free flavor or fragrance oil. For example, one fragrance can be selected from the group consisting of thymol, eucalyptol, methyl salicylate, menthol, peppermint oil and spearmint oil.

In addition to the ingredients set forth above, the present compositions may contain a variety of additional ingredients selected on the basis of desired end use. Thus, for example, the compositions may include detergent compounds, such as organic and inorganic detergents, including non-ionic detergents such as the various polyoxyehtylene ethers of aromatic and aliphatic alcohols, as well as the polyoxyethylene ethers of hydrophobic propylene oxide polymers. Additionally, ethoxylated acids, and amines are also contemplated. The amount of the detergent is preferably about .4% to about 5% by weight, and more preferably about 0.5% to 3% by weight, and most preferably 0.5% to 2.0% by weight of the total cleansing composition.

The limiting factor for amounts of detergent is that higher quantities prevent dissolution of the compositions and therefore reduce the effective cleaning time. These compounds assist in maintaining a foaming action in the instance where the cleansing compositions are placed in aqueous solution.

The composition may be conveniently formed into tablets, by conventional techniques, as by mixing the powders together and subjecting them to tabletting pressure. Alternatively, the composition may also be in the form of a powder, e.g. small granules having particle sizes within the range such as to pass through a 10 or 20 mesh sieve and be retained on, say a 40 mesh sieve (all sieve sizes herein being U.S. Standard). It is preferable that most of the granules have substantially the same overall composition, so that the individual granules will be effervescent. To this end the granules may be produced by thoroughly mixing finely powdered

ingredients, forming the uniform mixture into tablets, then breaking up the tablets mechanically, and screening to obtain the desired sizes of granules. Other known techniques for forming granules of substantially uniform composition may be employed.

One preferred embodiment of the invention is a water soluble effervescent denture cleanser composition, which comprises the novel steps of: (a) preparing an anhydrous perborate, perborate monohydrate and polymeric fluorocarbon compound as a first premix; (b) forming a precompressed pregranulation or plurality of particles therefrom such that the particles are of a size which will promote cohesion of the final tablet; and (c) combining this premix with the other components as described in Examples 1-7, hereinbelow.

In this preferred embodiment of the inventory, the other components of the tablet are dried to a free surface moisture content of from about 0.02% to about 2% by weight of the composition.

Tablets made from the composition of the invention exhibit excellent hardness, on the average of at least about 12 SCU, preferably from about

18 SCU to about 20 SCU. The tablets have demonstrated even higher hardness levels, which allows the manufacturer to choose an appropriate hardness level that will permit disintegration in water at an appropriate rate.

The materials must be in the proper range of mesh size, otherwise tablets produced from the materials may be defective, and exhibit "capping" during the compression stage, in addition, if particles are too large the tablets may not dissolve fast enough. The particle size especially affects the dissolution of EDTA. Particle size also affects the hardness of the tablet.

Another preferred embodiment of the invention is a water soluble effervescent denture cleanser powder composition, which comprises the

novel steps of: (a) preparing an anhydrous perborate, perborate monohydrate and polymeric fluorocarbon compound as a first premix; and (b) combining this premix with the other components as described in Examples 8-13, hereinbelow.

When added to water the compositions produce a blue colored cleansing bath. This blue color fades after about 3 - 10 minutes. The rate of fading depends upon the ratio of the persulfate to the perborate, the water bath temperature, and the amount of water used for the bath.

The denture cleansing compositions dissolved in water form a cleansing solution that removes plaque, stain and tartar deposits from dentures. The amount of plaque, stain, and tarter deposits removed is dependant upon the amount of time the denture is soaked in the cleansing solution. Rinsing the dentures after soaking will aid in removing the residual denture cleanser solution and additional plaque, stain, and tartar. It is believed that rinsing may also reduce the "slippery" or "slimy" feeling or the " metallic aftertaste" often associated with dentures immediately following the cleaning process with commercial denture cleansers.

A further understanding of the present invention will be gained from the following illustrative examples.

Examples 1-7 Methods of preparation:

The compositions set forth in Examples 1-7 were prepared as follows. The amounts of each ingredient in the composition are set forth in Table 1.

Example 1 was prepared as follows: A pregranulation mix, or premix, was prepared containing anhydrous sodium perborate, sodium perborate

monohydrate, and a small amount of PTFE. The three premix ingredients were combined in a ratio of 14.7/23.9/0.15. All of the anhydrous perborate was used in the premix. The amounts of perborate monohydrate and PTFE in the premix reflect the aforesaid ratio. These three components were blended in a Day blender for about 3 minutes and passed through a chilsonating compacting machine, Model DMC Fitzpatrick, under the following conditions: The chilsonator was set at an air pressure of from about 88 to about 90 psi, and oil pressure of from about 2300 to about 2400 psi, and the roller at high speed using 2-3 amps. The compacted material was then passed through a Model 197S comil having a 0.175 inch spacer, with a 0.032 inch screen at 4200 RPM. The compacted anhydrous perborate, perborate monohydrate and PTFE, hereinafter known as the premix, typically had a U.S.S. Mesh distribution of:

14% on a size 40 mesh screen, 22% on a size 60 mesh screen,

15% on a size 80 mesh screen,

16% on a size 100 mesh screen,

33% through a 100 mesh screen.

The premix had an untapped density of 0.58 grams/ml and a tapped density (100 taps) of 0.79 grams/ml.

The premix as prepared is used in the formulation at approximately 7% by weight.

In a suitable Day blender container set at 50 RPM the following ingredients were combined in sequence in evenly spaced intervals: sodium bicarbonate; dyes and water; sodium tripolyphosphate; sodium carbonate; citric acid; EDTA; "OXONE"; the remainder of the unpregranulated sodium perborate monohydrate; the premix; flavor preblend; sodium saccharin; spray dried fragrance; sodium sulfate; lathanol; sodium benzoate. The remainder of the PTFE was then added and mixed for an additional 3

minutes. The resultant mixture was compressed into a tablet having a diameter of from 27/32" to 15/16", a thickness of approximately 0.190" to 0.151 ", and a minimum hardness of 12 SCU.

For examples 2-7, a premix was prepared containing anhydrous sodium perborate, sodium perborate monohydrate, and PTFE in the ratio of 45.26/54.18/0.56. All of the anhydrous perborate was used in the premix. The amounts of perborate monohydrate and PTFE in the premix reflect the aforesaid ratio. These three components were blended in a Day blender for about 3 minutes and passed through a chilsonating compacting machine,

Model DMC Fitzpatrick, under the following conditions: The chilsonator was set at an air pressure of 89 psi, the oil pressure was set at 2350 psi and the roller at high speed using 2-3 amps. The compacted material was then passed through a Model 1972 comil having 0.175 inch spacer, with a 0.032 inch screen at 4200 RPM. The compacted anhydrous perborate, perborate monohydrate and PTFE, hereinafter known as the premix, typically had a U. S. S. Mesh size distribution of:

14% on a size 40 mesh screen,

25% on a size 60 mesh screen, 11% on a size 80 mesh screen,

15% on a size 100 mesh screen, 35% through a 100 mesh screen.

The premix had an untapped density of 0.58 grams/ml and a tapped density (100 taps) of 0.76 grams /ml.

For best results, the moisture content of the sodium perborate monohydrate should be less than 1.0%. The premix as prepared is used in the formulation at approximately 25% by weight.

After the premix was prepared, the preparation of Examples 2, 5, 6, and 7 was completed as follows: In a suitable Day Blender set at 50 RPM

the following ingredients were added in sequence at approximately 90- second intervals; the remainder of the non-pregranulated sodium perborate monohydrate that was not used to prepare the premix; EDTA; potassium monopersulfate; the premix; sodium tripolyphosphate; a preblend of the dyes and sodium bicarbonate and sodium sulfate; solid fragrance; liquid fragrance; and "ESPERASE". The mixture was mixed until the materials were evenly dispersed up to a maximum of 26 minutes. The remainder of the PTFE not used in the premix was then added. The mixture was mixed for one additional minute. Detergent was then added to the mixture and the mixture was mixed up to a maximum of 3 additional minutes. Total maximum mixing time was 30 minutes. The resultant mixture was compressed into a tablet having a diameter of from 3/4" to 15/16", a thickness of 0.16", and a minimum hardness of 12 SCU.

The preparation of Examples 3 and 4 was completed in the same manner as Examples 2, 5, 6, and 7, except that EDTA was not added in

Example 3, and "ESPERASE" was not added in Example 4. (See Table 1).

The compositions of the tablets prepared according to Examples 1-7 are set forth in Table 1.

TABLE 1

Tablet Composition

Example

Sodium Perborate 387 908.0 908.0 908.0 908.0 554.4 908.0

Monohydrate

Sodium Perborate 83.0 365.0 365.0 365.0 365.0 223.1 365.0

Anhydrous

Na 4 EDTA * 2H 2 0 119.0 540.0 — 540.0 540.0 329.4 540.0

"OXONE" (Potassium 1221.0 552.0 .52.0 552.0 552.0 336.7 552.0 t-υ Mono Persulfate) σ

Sodium Saccharin 7.0 7.0 7.0 7.0 7.0 7.0 7.0

"LATHONOL" 20.0 17.2 17.2 17.2 17.2 17.2 17.2

PTFE 3.0 19.0 19.0 19.0 19.0 11.6 19.0

"ESPERASE" — 40.0 40.0 --- 40.0 24.4 44.0

12knpu/gm

Fragrance (Spray 30.0 45.0 45.0 45.0 30.0 45.0

Dried) Spearmint Type

TABLE 1

Tablet Composition (continued)

Example 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Mixed Fragrances ... — ... — — — 45.0 (Spray Dried) (Listerine Essential Oils)

Fragrance (Liquid) 5.4 (Spearmint)Color 5.1 5.05 5.05 5.05 5.05 3.1 5.05

Sodium Tripoly- 318.0 74.3 74.3 74.3 74.3 45.2 74.3 Phosphate

Na 2 CO 3 285.0 — ... — — ... ... )

Sodium Sulfate 150.0 67.5 67.5 67.5 67.5 41.2 67.5

Citric Acid 119.0 — ... — — ... ...

NaHCO 3 342.0 25.0 25.0 25.0 25.0 15.3 25.0

Sodium Benzoate 20.0 — ... — — ... ...

water 10.0 — ... — — — ...

Total Weight 3129.0 2665.1 2125.1 2625.1 2655.5 1653.5 2665.1 (grams per 1000 tablets)

Example 1 is a comparative prior art example of a known composition showing a composition having a higher weight percent of monopersulfate and a lower perborate monohydrate weight percent compared to the inventive compositions.

Example 2, 5, 6 and 7 comprise examples of the invention. Example 2 has both cleaning enzymes and high levels of EDTA. Example 5 is the inventive composition with reduced spray dried fragrance and added liquid fragrance. Example 6 is a reduced weight formulation of Example 2 with the same levels of detergent and fragrance. Example 7 is the inventive formulation composition wherein the spray dried fragrances used are the essential oils used in LISTERINE® antiseptic mouth rinse in the ratio of 1.00/1.50/2.17/1.41 for menthol, thymol, eucalyptol and methyl salicylate respectively at a 20% load based on weight. Example 3 is the same formulation as Example 2 without Na4EDTA-2H 2 0. Example 4 is the same formulation as Example 2 without "ESPERASE".

Examples 8-13 Similar to examples 1-7, for examples 8-13, a premix was prepared containing anhydrous sodium perborate, sodium perborate monohydrate, and PTFE in the ratio of 45.26/54.18/0.56. All of the anhydrous perborate was used in the premix. The amounts of perborate monohydrate and PTFE in the premix reflect the aforesaid ratio. These three components were blended in a Day blender for about 3 minutes and passed through a chilsonating compacting machine, Model DMC Fitzpatrick, under the following conditions: The chilsonator was set at an air pressure of 89 psi, the oil pressure was set at 2350 psi and the roller at high speed using 2-3 amps. The compacted material was then passed through a Model 1972 comil having 0.175 inch spacer, with a 0.032 inch screen at 4200 RPM. The compacted anhydrous perborate, perborate monohydrate and PTFE, hereinafter known as

the premix, typically had a U. S. S. Mesh size distribution of:

14% on a size 40 mesh screen, 25% on a size 60 mesh screen,

11% on a size 80 mesh screen, 15% on a size 100 mesh screen, 35% through a 100 mesh screen.

The premix had an untapped density of 0.58 grams/ml and a tapped density (100 taps) of 0.76 grams /ml.

For best results, the moisture content of the sodium perborate monohydrate should be less than 1.0%. The premix as prepared is used in the formulation at approximately 25% by weight.

After the premix was prepared, the preparation of Examples 8, 11 , 12, and 13 was completed as follows: In a suitable Day Blender set at 50 RPM the following ingredients were added in sequence at approximately 90- second intervals; the remainder of the non-pregranulated sodium perborate monohydrate that was not used to prepare the premix; EDTA; potassium monopersulfate; the premix; sodium tripolyphosphate; a preblend of the dyes and sodium bicarbonate and sodium sulfate; solid fragrance; liquid fragrance; and "ESPERASE". The mixture was mixed until the materials were evenly dispersed up to a maximum of 26 minutes. Detergent was then added to the mixture and the mixture was mixed up to a maximum of 3 additional minutes. Total maximum mixing time was 29 minutes.

The preparation of Examples 9 and 10 was completed in the same manner as Examples 8, 11 , 12, and 13, except that EDTA was not added in

Example 9, and "ESPERASE" was not added in Example 10. (See Table 2).

The compositions of the compositions prepared according to Examples 8-13 are set forth in Table 2.

Table 2 Composition Composition

Example 10 1 1 12 13

Sodium Perborate 908.0 908.0 908.0 908.0 554.4 908.0 Monohydrate

Sodium Perborate 365.0 365.0 365.0 365.0 223.1 365.0 Anhydrous

Na 4 EDTA * 2H 2 0 540.0 540.0 540.0 329.4 540.0

NJ

"OXONE" 552.0 552.0 552.0 552.0 336.7 552.0 (Potassium Mono Persulfate)

Sodium Saccharin 7.0 7.0 7.0 7.0 7.0 7.0

"LATHONOL" 17.2 17.2 17.2 17.2 17.2 17.2

PTFE 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 2.3 3.8

"ESPERASE" 40.0 40.0 ... 40.0 24.4 44.0 12knpu/gm

Table 2

Composition Composition

(continued)

Example 8 9 10 11 12 13

Fragrance 45.0 45.0 45.0 30.0 45.0

(Spray Dried) Spearmint Type

Mixed Fragrances — — — — — 45.0

(Spray Dried) (Listerine Essential Oils) σ.

Fragrance — — — 5.4

(Liquid)

(Spearmint)

Color 5.05 5.05 5.05 5.05 3.1 5.05

Sodium Tripoly- 74.3 74.3 74.3 74.3 45.2 74.3

Phosphate

Na 2 CO 3

Sodium Sulfate 67.5 67.5 67.5 67.5 41.2 67.5

TABLE 2

Composition Composition

(continued)

Example 10 11 12 13

Citric Acid

NaHCO, 25.0 25.0 25.0 25.0. 15.3 25.0

Sodium Benzoate water

N.

Total Weight 2649.9 2109.9 2609.9 2640.3 1638.3 2649.9 (grams per 1000 compositions)

Examples 8, 11 , 12 and 13 comprise examples of the invention in powder form. Example 8 has both cleaning enzymes and high levels of EDTA. Example 11 is the inventive composition with reduced spray dried fragrance and added liquid fragrance. Example 12 is a reduced weight formulation of Example 8 with the same levels of detergent and fragrance.

Example 13 is the inventive formulation composition wherein the spray dried fragrances used are the essential oils used in LISTERINE® antiseptic mouth rinse in the ratio of 1.00/1.50/2.17/1.41 for menthol, thymol, eucalyptol and methyl salicylate respectively at a 20% load based on weight. Example 9 is the same formulation as Example 8 without Na4EDTA-2H 2 0. Example 10 is the same formulation as Example 8 without "ESPERASE".

Example 14 -- Stain and Plague Removal Tablets were tested for their cleaning ability on tiles that had been coated with a combination of plaque and various food stains of coffee, tea, blueberry and grape juice.

Sets of plaque-coated and food-stained denture tiles were prepared as follows:

Step I: The denture tiles were immersed in a solution containing human saliva and a growth medium. Plaque was allowed to accumulate over 16 hours at 37° C. Step II: The tiles were removed from the saliva medium and allowed to air dry for a minimum of two hours.

Step III: The plaque coated tiles were then immersed in a solution of coffee, tea, blueberry, and grape juice for 16 hours at room temperature. Step IV: Step I, II, and III were repeated two additional times.

Separate sets of plaque-coated and food-stained tiles (5 tiles in each set) were immersed in beakers containing 125 mi of water at 45°C. Tablets

of the compositions of Examples 1-7 were added to separate beakers. At the end of 15 minutes, the treated tiles were dunked in a 200 ml volume of tap water 20 times and the rinsing repeated again with 200 ml of tap water. The tiles were allowed to air dry at room temperature. The tiles were then examined for stain removal and rank ordered for amount of stain removed.

The rank ordering of the tiles, from most stain removal to least stain removal, was as follows:

Example 2, Example 5, and Example 7 Example 6

Example 3

Two tablets Example 1

One tablet Example 1

Example 4 Water

These results indicate that there is a synergistic effect between EDTA and "ESPERASE" as demonstrated by the superior stain removal of

Examples 2, 5, and 7. Example 6 contained reduced amounts of EDTA and "ESPERASE", yet was also more effective than Example 3, which lacks

EDTA, and Example 4, which lacks "ESPERASE".

Example 15 -- Plaque Removal Sets of plaque-coated denture tiles were prepared as follows: Step I: The denture tiles were immersed in a solution containing human saliva and a growth medium. Plaque was allowed to accumulate over 16 hours at 37° C. Step II: The tiles were then removed from the saliva medium and allowed to air dry at room temperature for at least one day.

Separate sets of tiles were immersed in beakers containing 125 ml or water at 45°C. Tablets of the compositions of Examples 1-7 were added to separate beakers. At the end of 15 minutes the treated tiles were rinsed by being dunked in a 200 ml volume of tap water 20 times. The rinsing was repeated again with 200 ml of tap water and the tiles were allowed to air dry at room temperature. The tiles were then stained to highlight the presence of plaque, and were visually inspected. The tiles were rank ordered for amount of plaque removed.

The rank-ordering of the tiles, from most plaque removal to least plaque removal was as follows:

Example 2, Example 5, and Example 7 Example 6

All of the following Examples removed the same amount of plaque: Example 1

Example 3 Example 4 Water Control

These results show the synergy between proteolytic cleaning enzyme and EDTA in Examples 2, 5, 6, and 7. Examples 3 and 4, which do not contain the combination of enzymes and EDTA, exhibited more remaining plaque after treatment than Examples 2, 5, 6, and 7, all of which contain both EDTA and "ESPERASE". Soaking tiles in the inventive compositions followed by rinsing aids in removal of the plaque and tartar and the "slimy" or "slippery" feeling often associated with freshly cleaned dentures.

Example 16 - Tartar Removal Sets of tartar and plaque-coated denture tiles were prepared as follows:

Step I: A set of denture tiles were allowed to rotate through a medium of 70 ml of human saliva containing 0.1% of added Calcium Phosphate, Monobasic, and adjusted to a pH of 7.

Step II: The tiles were rotated through a solution for four 24- hour periods using a fresh calcium/saliva solution for each 24-hour immersion period.

Step III: The tiles were air dried at room temperature prior to use for at least two hours.

These tiles were immersed in separate beakers containing 125 ml of water at 45°C. Tablets of the compositions of Examples 1-7 were added to separate beakers. After 15 minutes, the tiles were dunked in 200 ml of tap water 20 times, and the rinsing was repeated again with another 200 ml of tap water. The tiles were then allowed to air dry at room temperature. The tiles were then subjected to a solution of coffee, tea, blueberry and grape as a disclosant and inspected for the presence of tartar. The tablets were rank ordered for amount of tartar removed.

The rank-ordering of the tiles, from most tartar removal to least tartar removal was as follows:

Example 2, Example 5, and Example 7

Example 6

Example 4 Example 3

Two tablets of Example 1

Water control

These results also demonstrate the synergistic effect found in inventive Examples 2, 5, 6, and 7. Both Example 3 and 4 exhibit less tartar removal than Examples 2, 5, 6, and 7.

Example 17 -- Fragrance Levels

In order to compare the fragrance levels of the compositions, the tablet of Example 1 was compared to the tablets of Examples 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 for dry tablet odor. The physical results are set forth in Table 3 below demonstrate the uniformity of the inventive compositions. The inventive compositions exhibited a pronounced fragrance level in the dry tablet.

Example 1 was compared to Examples 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 for solution fragrance evolution by placing one tablet of each example in 120 ml of water at 45°C and smelling the burst of fragrance. The compositions prepared according to the invention (Examples 2, 5, 6 and 7) all exhibited an enhanced burst of fragrance in solution. When the solutions were allowed to stand for one hour at room temperature, the inventive compositions all exhibited a pronounced fragrance level, whereas the comparative prior art Example 1 exhibited a chlorine like odor. When the solutions were allowed to continue to stand overnight (16 Hours) the inventive compositions of Examples 2, 5, 6, all exhibited an enhanced fragrance retention level, whereas the prior art formulation Example 1 continued to exhibit a chlorine- like odor. This enhanced fragrance level is believed to be due to the lower amounts of hypochlorite in the inventive composition. This feature allows for the use of lower amount of fragrance in the composition and helps to solve problems associated with stability of some fragrances.

In addition, a tablet from Example 7 was compared to a variation of Example 1 , wherein Example 1 contained 70 mg/tablet of the spray dried essential oil fragrance from oils used in LISTERINE® antiseptic mouth rinse in place of the spearmint spray dried fragrance. The results indicated that the tablet from Example 7 exhibited a much stronger burst of fragrance when the tablet was placed in solution and a stronger fragrance level overnight even though the comparative Example 1 tablet contained 60% more fragrance.

TABLE 3 Fragrance

Example 1

pH 8.3 9.65 9.60 9.65 9.65 9.60 9.60

Fade Time (Min.) 12 7 1 5 6 6 6

Bomb Value 14 4 2 4 4 3 10

Theoretical Active 115 170.2 170.2 170.2 170.2 103.9 170.2 Oxygen (mg.) Actual Active 114.0 165.7 165.7 165.7 165.7 102.1 165.7 Oxygen (mg.)

Disintegration 180 90 90 50 40 90 90 Time (seconds)

Density N/A 1.07 N/A N/A N/A 0.95 N/A (100 Taps)

Thickness 0.190 0.160 0.160 0.160 0.160 (inch)

Diameter 57/64 15/16 N/A N/A 15/16 3/4 15/16 (inch)

Examples 18-20 Methods of preparation:

The compositions set forth in Examples 18-20 were prepared as follows. The amounts of each ingredient in the composition are set forth in Table 4.

Example 18 was prepared as follows: A pregranulation mix, or premix, was prepared containing anhydrous sodium perborate, sodium perborate monohydrate, and a small amount of PTFE. The three premix ingredients were combined in a ratio of 14.7/23.9/0.15. All of the anhydrous perborate was used in the premix.

The amounts of perborate monohydrate and PTFE in the premix reflect the aforesaid ratio. These three components were blended in a Day blender for about

3 minutes and passed through a chilsonating compacting machine,

Model DMC Fitzpatrick, under the following conditions: The chilsonator was set at an air pressure of from about 88 to about 90 psi, and oil pressure of from about

2300 to about 2400 psi, and the roller at high speed using 2-3 amps. The compacted material was then passed through a Model 197S comil having an 0.175 inch spacer, with an 0.032 inch screen at 4200 RPM. The compacted anhydrous perborate, perborate monohydrate and PTFE, hereinafter known as the premix, typically had a U.S.S. Mesh distribution of:

14% on a size 40 mesh screen, 22% on a size 60 mesh screen, 15% on a size 80 mesh screen, 16% on a size 100 mesh screen, 33% through a 100 mesh screen.

The premix had an untapped density of 0.58 grams/ml and a tapped density (100 taps) of 0.79 grams/ml.

The premix as prepared is used in the formulation at approximately 7% by weight.

In a suitable blender container set at 50 RPM the following ingredients were combined in sequence in evenly spaced intervals: sodium bicarbonate; dyes and water; sodium tripoiyphosphate; sodium carbonate; citric acid; EDTA; "OXONE"; the remainder of the unpregranulated sodium perborate monohydrate; the premix; flavor prebiend; sodium saccharin; spray dried fragrance; sodium sulfate; "LATHANOL"; sodium benzoate. The remainder of the PTFE was then added and mixed for an additional 3 minutes. The resultant mixture was compressed into a tablet having a diameter of from 27/32" to 15/16", a thickness of approximately 0.190" to 0.151 ", and a minimum hardness of 12 SCU.

For examples 19-20, a premix was prepared containing anhydrous sodium perborate, sodium perborate monohydrate, and PTFE in the ratio of 45.26/54.18/0.56. All of the anhydrous perborate was used in the premix. The amounts of perborate monohydrate and PTFE in the premix reflect the aforesaid ratio. These three components were blended in a blender for about 3 minutes and passed through a chilsonating compacting machine, Model DMC Fitzpatrick, under the following conditions: The chilsonator was set at an air pressure of 89 psi, the oil pressure was set at 2350 psi and the roller at high speed using 2-3 amps. The compacted material was then passed through a Model 1972 comil having 0.175 inch spacer, with an 0.032 inch screen at 4200 RPM. The compacted anhydrous perborate, perborate monohydrate and PTFE, hereinafter known as the premix, typically had a U. S. S. Mesh size distribution of: 14% on a size 40 mesh screen, 25% on a size 60 mesh screen, 11% on a size 80 mesh screen,

15% on a size 100 mesh screen, 35% through a 100 mesh screen.

The premix had an untapped density of 0.58 grams/ml and a tapped density (100 taps) of 0.76 grams /ml.

For best results, the moisture content of the sodium perborate monohydrate should be less than 0.6%. The premix as prepared is used in the formulation at approximately 25% by weight.

After the premix was prepared, the preparation of Examples 19-20 was completed as follows: In a suitable blender set at 50 RPM the following ingredients were added in sequence at approximately 90-second intervals; the remainder of the non-pregranulated sodium perborate monohydrate that was not used to prepare the premix; EDTA; potassium monopersulfate; the premix; sodium tripoiyphosphate; a prebiend of the dyes and sodium bicarbonate and sodium sulfate; and solid fragrance (Example 19--spray dried spearmint type; Example 20~spray dried LISTERINE® essential oils). The mixture was mixed until the materials were evenly dispersed, generally in the range from about 3 to 26 minutes with longer mixing times being required for larger batch sizes. The remainder of the PTFE not used in the premix was then added. The mixture was mixed for one additional minute.

Detergent was then added to the mixture and the mixture was mixed up to a maximum of 3 additional minutes (the detergent was "LATHONAL", an anionic detergent comprised of 70% sodium lauryl sulfoacetate and 30% sodium chloride). Total maximum mixing time was 30 minutes. The resultant mixture was compressed into a tablet having a diameter of from 3/4" to 15/16", a thickness of

0.16", and a minimum hardness of 12 SCU.

The compositions of the tablets prepared according to Examples 18-20 are set forth in Table 4.

TABLE 4

Tablet Composition

Example 18 19 20

Sodium Perborate 387 908.0 908.0 Monohydrate

Sodium Perborate 83.0 365.0 365.0 Anhydrous

Na 4 EDTA * 2H 2 0 119.0 540.0 540.0 u "OXONE" (Potassium 1221.0 552.0 552.0 " ** Mono Persulfate)

Sodium Saccharin 7.0 7.0 7.0

"LATHONOL" 20.0 17.2 17.2

PTFE 3.0 19.0 19.0

Fragrance Spray 30.0 ... 45.0 Dried Spearmint Type

Mixed Fragrances — 45.0 —

Spray Dried

(LISTERINE® Essential Oils)

Table 4

Tablet Composition

(continued)

Example 18 19 20

Color Sodium 5.1 5.05 5.05

Tripoly-Phosphate 318.0 74.3 74.3

Na COg Sodium 285.0 Sulfate 150.0 67.5 67.3

Citric Acid 119.0 — —

(- 00 NaHCO, 342.0 25.0 25.0 Sodium Benzoate 20.0 — — water 10.0 — —

Total Weight (grams 3129.0 2625.1 2624.9 per 1000 tablets)

Example 18 is a comparative prior art example of a known composition showing a composition having a higher weight percent of monopersulfate and a lower perborate monohydrate weight percent compared to the inventive compositions. Example 18 also has a low level of EDTA.

Example 19 comprises an example of the invention. Example 19 has a high level of EDTA. Example 19 is the inventive composition with increased spray dried fragrance (LISTERINE® essential oils). Example 19 is a composition having a

higher weight percent of perborate monohydrate and a lower weight percent of

monopersulfate compared to the known composition of Example 18.

Example 20 is the same as Example 19 except the fragrance is predominantly a spray dried spearmint type which also retains the fragrance when the solution is allowed to stand overnight.

Example 21 -- Stain and Plaque Removal Tablets were tested for their cleaning ability on tiles that had been coated with a combination of plaque and various food stains of coffee, tea, blueberry and grape juice.

Sets of plaque-coated and food-stained denture tiles were prepared as

follows:

Step I: The denture tiles were immersed in a solution containing ' human saliva and a growth medium. Plaque was allowed to accumulate over 16 hours at 37° C.

Step II: The tiles were removed from the saliva medium and allowed to air dry for a minimum of two hours. Step III: The plaque coated tiles were then immersed in a solution of coffee, tea, blueberry, and grape juice for 16 hours at room temperature. Step IV: Step I, II, and III were repeated two additional times.

Separate sets of plaque-coated and food-stained tiles (5 tiles in each set) were immersed in beakers containing 125 ml of water at 45°C. Tablets of the compositions of Examples 18-20 were added to separate beakers. At the end of 15 minutes, the treated tiles were dunked in a 200 ml volume of tap water 20 times and the rinsing repeated again with 200 ml of tap water. The tiles were allowed to air dry at room temperature. The tiles were then examined for stain removal.

All three samples removed about the same amount of tartar from the denture tiles. These results indicate that the inventive compositions provide cleaning similar to known denture cleansing formulations.

Example 22 -- Plaque Removal

Sets of plaque-coated denture tiles were prepared as follows:

Step I: The denture tiles were immersed in a solution containing human saliva and a growth medium. Plaque was allowed to accumulate over 16 hours at 37° C. Step II: The tiles were then removed from the saliva medium and allowed to air dry at room temperature for at least one day.

Separate sets of tiles were immersed in beakers containing 125 ml of water at 45°C. Tablets of the compositions of Examples 18-20 were added to separate

beakers. At the end of 15 minutes the treated tiles were rinsed by being dunked in

a 200 ml volume of tap water 20 times. The rinsing was repeated again with 200

ml of tap water and the tiles were allowed to air dry at room temperature. The tiles were then stained to highlight the presence of plaque, and were visually inspected.

All three samples removed about the same amount of tartar from the denture tiles. These results indicate that the inventive compositions provide cleaning similar to known denture cleansing formulations.

Example 23 - Tartar Removal Sets of tartar and plaque-coated denture tiles were prepared as follows: Step I: A set of denture tiles were allowed to rotate through a medium of 70 ml of human saliva containing 0.1% of added Calcium Phosphate, Monobasic, and adjusted to a pH of 7.

Step II: The tiles were rotated through a solution for four 24-hour periods using a fresh calcium/saliva solution for each 24-hour immersion period.

Step III: The tiles were air dried at room temperature prior to use for at least two hours.

These tiles were immersed in separate beakers containing 125 ml of water at 45°C. Tablets of the compositions of Examples 18-20 were added to separate beakers. After 15 minutes, the tiles were dunked in 200 ml of tap water 20 times, and the rinsing was repeated again with another 200 ml of tap water. The tiles were then allowed to air dry at room temperature. The tiles were then subjected to a solution of coffee, tea, blueberry and grape as a disclosant and inspected for the presence of tartar.

All three samples removed about the same amount of tartar from the denture tiles. These results indicate that the inventive compositions provide cleaning similar to known denture cleansing formulations.

Example 24: Effect on the Residual Amount of Active Oxygen on Stained and Non-stained Plaque Tiles It had been observed that the inventive compositions retained about 80% or

more of their active oxygen levels while standing for 6 hours. A comparison was

performed between the use of tiles having a stained coating on a pϊaque matrix and tiles which are free of stains and plaque.

(A) The plaque-coated and food-stained denture tiles were prepared as in Example 21. One set of stained-plaque tiles (3 tiles per set) was immersed in a beaker containing 375 ml of H 2 0 at 45 * C. Tablets of the composition of Example 19 were added to the beaker. At the end of 30 minutes and 6 hours of soaking, 3-10 ml aloquots were assayed for active oxygen content.

(B) A second set of the stain-plaque free tiles (3 tiles per set) was immersed in

a beaker containing 375 ml of H 2 0 at 45'C. Tablets of the composition of

Example 19 were added to the beaker. At the end of 30 minutes and 6 hours of soaking, 3-10 ml aloquots were assayed for active oxygen content. The active oxygen results of this comparison is as follows:

A. Results after 30 minutes

129.0 mg/tablet

130.0 mg/tablet

Active oxygen retained = 129.5 _ gg g 0 / o

* 149.0

B. Results after 30 minutes 139.0 mg/tablet

135.0 mg/tablet

Active oxygen retained = 137.0 _ g- j g 4 o/ o

* 149.0

A. Results after 6 hours

128.0 mg/tablet

128.0 mg/tablet

Active oxygen retained = 128.0 _ 85 g0/o * 149.0

B Results after 6 hours

138.0 mg/tablet

137.0 mg/tablet

Active oxygen retained = 137.5 _ g2 -^ > / 0 * 149.0

* 149 represents the 100% active oxygen content of a hypothetical formulation.

These results show that the solutions with the stained-plaque tiles had approximately 86% active oxygen content remaining even after six hours

(essentially unchanged from the active oxygen content present at 30 minutes); the solutions with stained-plaque free tiles had approximately 92% active oxygen content remaining even after six hours (essentially unchanged from the active oxygen content present at 30 minutes). These results indicate that the product provides a residual stable reservoir of active oxygen to maintain the denture in a disinfectant during an overnight soak.

Example 25 - Fragrance Levels In order to compare the fragrance levels of the compositions, the tablet of Example

18 was compared to the tablets of Example 19 for dry tablet odor. The physical results are set forth in Table 5 below demonstrate the uniformity of the inventive

compositions. The inventive compositions exhibited a pronounced fragrance level in the dry tablet.

Example 18 was compared to Example 19 for solution fragrance evolution by placing one tablet of each example in 120 ml of water at 45°C and smelling the burst of fragrance. The composition prepared according to the invention exhibited an enhanced burst of fragrance in solution. When the solutions were allowed to stand for one hour at room temperature, the inventive composition exhibited a pronounced fragrance level, whereas the comparative prior art Example 18 exhibited a chlorine like odor. When the solutions were allowed to continue to stand overnight (16 Hours) the inventive composition of Example 19 exhibited an enhanced fragrance retention level, whereas the prior art formulation Example 18 continued to exhibit a chlorine-like odor. This enhanced fragrance level is believed to be due to the lower amounts of hypochlorite in the inventive composition. This feature allows for the use of lower amount of fragrance in the composition and helps to solve problems associated with stability of some fragrances.

Table s Fragrance

Example

pH 8.3 9.65 9.60

Fade Time (Min.) 12 5 5

Bomb Value 4 14 4

Theoretical Active 1 15 170.2 170.2 Oxygen (mg.)

*_

Actual Active 114.0 165.7 165.8 Oxygen (mg.)

Disintegration 180 50 50 Time (seconds)

Density N/A N/A N/A (100 Taps)

Thickness 0.190 N/A N/A (inch)

Diameter 57/64 N/A N/A (inch)

Example 26 - Granulation Formulations

A denture cleaning composition was prepared as a dispersible powder as follows. The amounts of each ingredient in the composition are set forth in Table 6.

Example 26 was prepared as follows: A pregranulation mix, or premix, was prepared containing anhydrous sodium perborate, sodium perborate monohydrate, and PTFE (#1 , 2, and 3). These three components were blended in a suitable blender for about 3 minutes and passed through a chilsonating compacting machine, Model DMC Fitzpatrick, under the following conditions: The chilsonator was set at an air pressure of from about 88 to about 90 psi, and oil pressure of from about 2300 to about 2400 psi, and the roller at high speed using 2-3 amps. The compacted material was then passed through a model 197S comil having an 0.175 inch spacer, with an 0.032 inch screen at 4200 RPM. The compacted anhydrous perborate, perborate monohydrate and PTFE in the premix had a U.S.S.

Mesh distribution of:

0% on a size 20 mesh screen, 14.2% on a size 40 mesh screen, 26.4% on a size 60 mesh screen, 14.8% on a size 80 mesh screen,

11.1% on a size 100 mesh screen, 33.5% through a 100 mesh screen.

The premix had an untopped density of 0.593 grams/ml and a tapped density (100 taps) of 0.853 grams/ml.

In a suitable blender container set at 50 RPM, a prebiend of the following ingredients was preformed for 3 minutes: 8, 9, 10, 11 , 13, and 15.

The material specifications for certain ingredients in each of the invention compositions are as follows:

The preferred chelating value of the EDTA is greater than 248.

The preferred mesh size of the EDTA is as follows:

0.2% Maximum remains on a U.S.S. 20 mesh sieve 25% Maximum remains on a U.S.S. 40 mesh sieve 20% Maximum passes through a U.S.S. 100 mesh sieve

The preferred water content of Sodium Perborate Monohydrate is less than

0.6%.

In a separate preparation, #7 was passed through a 20 mesh screen.

Thereafter, in a one cubic foot ribbon blender set at no higher than 40 RPM, the following ingredients were combined in sequence in evenly spaced intervals: #4, 5, 6, 12, 14, and Pre-blend A. The mixture was blended for about 1 1-1/2 minutes. #7 was then added and the mixture was blended for an additional minute. Approximately 2.018 grams of the resulting granulation was packaged in a 0.0007" aluminum composite foil pouch and hermetically sealed from moisture and light.

TABLE 6

INGREDIENT PERCENT W/W INGRED. QUANTITY PER 2017.789

PREMIX A

1. Sodium Perborate Monohydrate 45.2600 242.2619MGS

2.Sodium Perborate Anhydrous 54.1800 290.0077MGS

3.Polytetrafluoroethylene .5600 2.9975MGS TOTALS 100.0000 535.2670MGS

BLUE GRANULATION 23.6982 478.1800MGS

4. Sodium Perborate Monohydrate 21.2222 428.2200MGS 5. EDTA WL250 Partially Hydrated 21.6940 437.7400MGS 6. Potassium Monopersulfate .8708 17.5700MGS 7. LATHANOL .0981 1.9800MGS 8. FD&C Yellow No. 5

VO Aluminum Lake, (15-17%) 2.9200 58.9200MGS

9. Sodium Tripoiyphosphate Anhydrous Granular .3543 7.1500MGS

10. Sodium Saccharin USP Powder .0352 .7100MGS

12. FD & C Red No. 40 Al Lake 2.2778 45.9600MGS

13. Flavor Blend Special N&A, 841082 .2314 4.6690MGS

14. FD & C Blue No. 2 - 87% 26.5276 535.2700MGS

15. Premix A .0704 1.4200MGS

16. FD & C Blue No. 2 Lake (Lakolene B301) TOTALS 100.0000 2017.7890 GS

The granulation has an active oxygen content of 130.0 mg/tablet; a pH oτ a.b

(9.30 - 9.90) after 5 minutes in 120 ml of H 2 0 at 45°C; fade of blue to light yellow; fade time of blue fading to yellow within 3 minutes in 120 ml of H 2 0 at 45°C; a maximum disintegration time of 180 seconds in 120 ml of H 2 0 at 45°C and maximum bomb test of 30 psig in 120 ml of H 2 0 at 85°C for 1 hour.

The purpose of the above Examples is to illustrate some embodiments of the present invention without implying limitations. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made in the apparatus or procedure of the invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.