This invention relates to a use of a composition for protecting oral cavity and teeth containing ethyl-Nα-lauroyl-L-arginate HCI (LAE), a corresponding composition and a corresponding method for protecting teeth. Because of nearly epidemic incidence of dental erosion, there is a continuing need for improved products that provide protection against dental erosion. Hence, it is an object of the present invention to protect teeth against dental erosion. Surprisingly, it has been found that ethyl-Nα-lauroyl-L-arginate HCI (LAE) and its salts attach to teeth and provide protection of teeth from erosion especially caused by the action of acid in food products and drinks such as chewing gum and lozenges compositions. Special advantages of this invention are: (a) sustained coating of the teeth by LAE and its homologues; (b) the coating agent provides a source of neutralizing plaque acids by providing sustained base formation. This is because arginines in LAE is degraded by bacteria on tooth in the mouth to produce ammonia. Thus, this chemistry not only provides the coating protection but also generates base to maintain pH balance on a sustained basis; and (c) avoid the use of brushing with abrasive cleansers.

Publication
2009