Reduction of oral levels of volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) by professional toothcleaning and oral hygiene instruction in non-halitosis patients.

Purpose: The aim of the study was to determine the longitudinal effect of an oral hygiene program on oral levels of volatile sulfur compounds (VSC).

Materials And Methods: The study subjects were randomly selected from patients attending a student course in operative dentistry and from staff members of our dental clinic. The test group (n = 30) received an oral hygiene training including professional toothcleaning (PTC), oral hygiene instruction, and motivation.

The effect of an oral hygiene program on oral levels of volatile sulfur compounds (VSC).

Volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) produced by bacteria in niches of the oral cavity play a major role in the etiology of bad breath, and can be easily detected by a portable sulfide monitor (Halimeter). To investigate the effect of an oral hygiene program on VSC levels, Halimeter readings were taken from 55 healthy dental students during a course in oral hygiene training, including instruction on brushing, flossing and professional tooth cleaning. Ten students who received no oral hygiene training served as a negative control.