Peroxide Gel Compositions

What is this patent about?

’444 is related to the field of dental bleaching compositions and devices, specifically addressing the problem of delivering peroxide-based whitening agents effectively and comfortably. Traditional methods involve liquid or gel formulations applied directly to teeth or within dental trays, often leading to messy application, dilution by saliva, and uneven coverage. The invention aims to overcome these drawbacks by providing a more stable and customizable delivery system.

The underlying idea behind ’444 is to create a formable dental treatment tray using a combination of a peroxide-based bleaching agent and a specific type of thickener that results in a gelatinous, visco-elastic material. This material, when dried on a flexible backing strip, can be rehydrated and molded directly onto a user's teeth, conforming to their unique dental arch. The key insight is the use of poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a thickener, which provides stability to high concentrations of peroxide and allows the creation of a moldable, adhesive strip.

The claims of ’444 focus on a dental whitening device comprising a flexible backing strip and a gelatinous dental composition containing a tooth whitening agent and a thickening agent selected from poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) or PVP. The claims emphasize the conformability of the device, allowing it to adapt to the user's dental arch without cracking or breaking. Some claims also cover the dental whitening composition itself, focusing on its gelatinous, visco-elastic properties and its ability to be applied directly to the teeth.

In practice, the invention involves mixing a peroxide compound (like carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide) with poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) or PVP, along with solvents and other additives. This mixture is then applied to a flexible backing material, such as a polymeric wax film, and dried to a gelatinous state. Before use, the strip is moistened, which reactivates its adhesive properties, and then pressed onto the teeth. The user molds the strip to their dental arch, ensuring close contact between the whitening agent and the tooth surface. The backing provides structural support and prevents the material from dissolving or being washed away by saliva.

The invention differentiates itself from prior approaches by using poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) or PVP, which allows for higher peroxide concentrations while maintaining gel stability. Unlike traditional gels that can run or be easily diluted, the gelatinous strip provides a more controlled and targeted application. Furthermore, the formable nature of the strip eliminates the need for custom-made trays, offering a more convenient and personalized whitening experience. The dried, rehydratable nature of the strip also improves shelf life and reduces mess compared to liquid or gel-filled trays.