The chemical speciation of zinc-and tin(ll)-containing dentrifices and of the reaction between saliva and such toothpastes has been researched using computer simulation. Pivotal formulation variables have been identified (phosphates, fluorides, citrate, etc.) and optimised to suggest formulations having maximum availability. of antimicrobial metal salts Zn 2 + (aq) and soluble tin(ll) species. Although the concept of having a single dentifrice in which both the zinc and the soluble tin(ll) species are maximised together is desirable, it is concluded that at a single pH value, there cannot be maximal availability for both species, but it is possible to achieve levels of antimicrobial metal salts superior to a dentifrice containing either ingredient alone.

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