Volatile sulfur compound (produced by oral plaque bacteria) (VSC)

Volatile sulfur compounds are small, malodorous gases produced mainly by Gram-negative anaerobic oral plaque bacteria during the enzymatic breakdown of sulfur-containing amino acids (notably L-cysteine and L-methionine). The most clinically relevant VSCs are hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide, which together account for the vast majority of intra-oral halitosis. These compounds are markers for poor oral hygiene and periodontal disease, with their concentration strongly correlating with gingivitis and periodontitis severity. Their production is not attributed to a single molecular entity but is the result of metabolic activity by a diverse group of oral bacteria including *Porphyromonas gingivalis*, *Treponema denticola*, *Tannerella forsythia*, *Prevotella intermedia*, and others[1][2][3][4]. Detection and quantification of VSCs is used in diagnosing and monitoring halitosis and periodontal disease[2][4].

Other names

Volatile sulfur compoundsoral malodor gasesVSChalitosis-associated sulfur compoundshydrogen sulfidemethyl mercaptandimethyl sulfide

Antimicrobial inhibition of VSC-producing bacteria; Chemical neutralization or oxidation of VSCs