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Variation in oral volatile sulphur compound formation
Alix Young1, Grazyna Jonski, Gunnar Rölla
1Department of Cariology, Oral Research Laboratory, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo, Norway. alixr@odont.uio.no
Acta Odontologica Scandinavica
|January 7, 2003
Summary
Oral volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) show significant day-to-day changes in individuals. These variations mean VSCs are not reliable for diagnosing oral malodor or periodontal disease risk over time.
Area of Science:
- Oral microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Periodontology
Background:
- Orally produced volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) are linked to oral malodor and periodontal disease risk.
- The stability of VSC levels as an individual characteristic over time is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the hypothesis that mouth air VSC levels are stable individual traits over time.
- To assess the intra-individual variability of oral VSC levels.
Main Methods:
- Two groups of dental students (n=30, n=11) participated.
- Standardized cysteine rinses (6 mM, pH 7.2) were used to assess VSC substrate availability.
- Measurements of 'morning breath' and response to cysteine rinses were taken using a Halimeter and gas chromatograph.
Main Results:
- Both groups exhibited substantial intra-individual variations in oral VSC levels.
- Cysteine rinses amplified these variations, indicating increased VSC production potential.
Conclusions:
- The hypothesis of stable VSC levels was not supported.
- Marked intra-individual variations preclude the use of oral VSC levels as diagnostic criteria in the general population.