Standardized Protocols for Measuring Volatile Sulfur Compounds: Scientific Foundations and Methodologies

Abstract

Halitosis is defined as a nasty odor emanating through the mouth and is primarily related to the enhanced concentration of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs). VSC measurements have been commonly used for experimental comparison and clinical diagnosis. As quantitative methods for comparative analyses of oral malodor, gas chromatography devices have been most commonly used to quickly and easily determine the concentration of several gas components of VSCs, which are agents primarily responsible for halitosis. The concentrations of VSCs fluctuate dynamically depending on contributing factors, including various oral/systemic conditions, intake of medicine and food/drink, oral hygiene, and even routine daily activities. Therefore, the exact analysis of VSCs requires the appropriate standardization of not only exact measurement techniques but also participant conditioning with scientific considerations. Thus, this paper describes the experimental standardizations commonly recommended in previous literature and their scientific background.