Clinical Study Examining the Control of Plaque and Gingivitis

The objective of this six-month clinical investigation is to evaluate the efficacy of a silica-free meridol toothpaste versus Colgate Cavity Protection Toothpaste in the control of established dental plaque and gingivitis.

Inclusion Criteria: * Subjects, ages 18-70, inclusive. * Availability for the six-month duration of the clinical research study. * Good general health. * Minimum of 20 uncrowned permanent natural teeth (excluding third molars). * Initial gingivitis index of at least 1.0 as determined by the use of the Loe and Silness Gingival Index. * Initial plaque index of at least 1.5 as determined by the use of the Quigley and Hein Plaque Index (Turesky Modification). * Signed Informed Consent Form Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of orthodontic bands. * Presence of partial removable dentures. * Tumor(s) of the soft or hard tissues of the oral cavity. * Advanced periodontal disease (purulent exudate, tooth mobility, and/or extensive loss of periodontal attachment or alveolar bone). * Five or more carious lesions requiring immediate restorative treatment. * Antibiotic use any time during the one month prior to entry into the study. * Participation in any other clinical study or test panel within the one month prior to entry into the study. * Dental prophylaxis during the past two weeks prior to baseline examinations. * History of allergies to oral care/personal care consumer products or their ingredients. * On any prescription medicines that might interfere with the study outcome. * An existing medical condition which prohibits eating or drinking for periods up to 4 hours.