The present invention relates to topical oral compositions, including therapeutic rinses, especially mouth rinses, as well as toothpastes, gels, tooth powders, chewing gums, mouth sprays, lozenges (including breath mints), dental implements (such as dental floss and tape), and pet care products comprising at least a minimally effective amount of chlorite ion, wherein the pH of the final composition is greater than 7 and the composition is essentially free of chlorine dioxide or chlorous acid. This invention further relates to a method for treating or preventing diseases and conditions of the oral cavity such as gingivitis, plaque, periodontal disease, herpetic lesions, and infections that may develop following dental procedures such as osseous surgery, tooth extraction, periodontal flap surgery, dental implantation, and scaling and root planing, in humans and other animals, by applying a safe and effective amount of the chlorite ion composition to the oral cavity.