Photoactivatable oxygen-evolving compositions and methods for teeth whitening

Abstract

Disclosed herein are compositions that can rapidly evolve oxygen and/or activated oxygen generally including an oxidizing agent (e.g., a peroxide) and an activating agent that has an emission wavelength between about 400 nm and about 570 nm (e.g., Eosin B, Eosin Y, or Erythrosine B). Methods of employing these compositions to whiten teeth, and methods of making these compositions and kits that include some or part of the composition ingredients, are also described.

1 - 13 . (canceled) 
     
     
         14 . A kit comprising:
 a first component comprising an activating agent; and   a second component comprising a peroxide, wherein the peroxide is selected from hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, peroxy acid, peroxy acetic acid, sodium perborate, an alkali metal peroxide, an alkali metal percarbonate, an alkali metal perborate, and a combination of any of the foregoing peroxides;   wherein the first component, the second component, or both further comprise a carbomer polymer.   
     
     
         15 . The kit according to  claim 14 , further comprising an apparatus for combining the first and second components. 
     
     
         16 . The kit according to  claim 14 , further comprising an apparatus for using the kit. 
     
     
         17 . The kit according to  claim 14 , further comprising instructions for using the kit. 
     
     
         18 . The kit according to  claim 14 , wherein the first component, the second component, or both further comprise at least one of an accelerating agent and a hydrophilic gelling agent. 
     
     
         19 . The kit according to  claim 18 , wherein the accelerating agent is sodium perborate. 
     
     
         20 . The kit according to  claim 18 , wherein the hydrophilic gelling agent is modified starch. 
     
     
         21 . The kit according to  claim 14 , wherein the second component further comprises a stabilizing agent. 
     
     
         22 . The kit according to  claim 14 , wherein the activating agent is Eosin Y. 
     
     
         23 . The kit according to  claim 22 , wherein the Eosin Y is about 0.02% to about 12%. 
     
     
         24 . The kit according to  claim 14 , wherein the peroxide is about 1% to about 70%.