Ferrate(VI)-containing compositions and methods of using ferrate(VI)

1. A toothpaste comprising a cleaning composition, comprising,

a) ferrate(VI) salt,

b) a complexing agent;

c) a pH buffer for controlling the pH to be at least 7 or above; and

d) an optional phase transfer catalyst;

wherein the complexing agent, the pH buffer, and the phase transfer catalyst are oxidation resistant.

2. The toothpaste of claim 1 comprising a silica-containing abrasive.

3. A composition for cleaning and/or disinfection, comprising:

a) ferrate(VI) and a hydrophobic material encapsulating the ferrate, wherein the hydrophobic material is soluble in organic solvents or soaps or detergents in the presence of moisture;

b) an oxidation resistant complexing agent;

c) an oxidation resistant pH buffer for controlling the pH to be at least 7 or above; and

d) an optional oxidation resistant phase transfer catalyst.

4. A chewing gum for cleaning and/or disinfection, comprising:

a) ferrate(VI) and a hydrophobic material encapsulating the ferrate;

b) a complexing agent;

c) a pH buffer for controlling the pH to be at least 7 or above;

d) an optional phase transfer catalyst; and

e) an elastomer;

wherein the complexing agent, the pH buffer, and the phase transfer catalyst are oxidation resistant.

5. A toothpaste comprising the cleaning composition of claim 3 wherein the hydrophobic material is a teeth cleaning hydrocarbon cream, paste, wax, and/or oil.

6. A method of cleaning a tooth comprising applying a composition according to claim 1 to a surface of the tooth.