Chewing gum and confection compositions that inhibit the buildup of plaque and other debris on teeth, comprising polybutene with a molecular weight of 300 to about 3000. Upon its release from the gum or confection piece by chewing or dissolving the polybutene forms a protective coating on the hard tissue surfaces of the oral cavity and may, optionally, provide sustained release of a cosmetic and/or therapeutic active ingredient to deliver prolonged therapeutic, prophylactic and/or cosmetic benefits.
