Method for lubricating and protecting the oral cavity

Abstract

A composition and method for lubricating and protecting the oral cavity generally and specifically the teeth, gums and tongue using a flavored petrolatum. In the preferred embodiment, the composition contains about 96%-98% (w/w) of petrolatum and about 2%-4% (w/w) of flavoring. The composition is liberally applied to the affected areas of the oral cavity to lubricate and protect those areas from initial injury that may occur during dental or medical procedures. The composition further provides for an aesthetically pleasing flavor upon application without leaving an undesirable aftertaste.

I claim:  
     
         1 . A method for protecting a patient's oral cavity from injury associated with medical or dental procedures by lubricating the oral cavity using a flavored petroleum jelly, comprising the steps of: 
 preparing a composition containing about 96% to 98% petrolatum jelly by weight of said composition and about 2% to 4% flavoring by weight of said composition; and    liberally applying the flavored petroleum jelly composition to the area of the oral cavity to be affected by the medical or dental procedure to lubricate and protect said cavity from injury associated with the medical or dental procedure, the application of the petroleum jelly for the purposes of protecting against initial injury associated with a medical or dental procedure rather than for treating existing injuries.    
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1  wherein said composition further comprises about 2% spearmint extract by weight of said composition.  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1  wherein said composition further comprises 4% orange citrus by weight of said composition.