IADR Abstract Archives

Neutralization of Malodor

Objectives: Whilst the antimicrobial properties of ions such as copper and zinc have been well-documented, the ability of these ions to chemically react with components of oral malodour is less well understood. Here, an in vitro model is presented for the evaluation of the ability of metal ions to oxidise hydrogen sulphide and methyl thiol, two major components of malodorous breath.

Methods: A dynamic model of breath-odour neutralisation was designed with a continuous flow of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) through a reaction chamber containing the test reagents. The concentrations of VSCs leaving the reaction chamber were measured using gas chromatography, and were compared against a water control. Measurements were taken as a function of time to examine the longevity of action.

Results: The rank order of effectiveness at removing VSCs was found to be AgI>CuII>ZnII, with all ions producing an insoluble precipitate (presumably the metal sulphide) with H2S and either dimethyl disulphide or an insoluble precipitate with methyl thiol. The reaction between ZnII and VSCs showed a strong dependence on the pH, with best efficacy at neutral pH. A commercially available, zinc ion-containing toothpaste (Zinc A) also showed significant activity against VSCs in this in vitro model.

Conclusion: The model has shown that metal ions are able to directly react with VSCs to engender them non-volatile and therefore non-odorous. This chemistry has also been demonstrated in a commercially available paste.


Continental European and Israeli Divisions Meeting
2007 Continental European and Israeli Divisions Meeting (Thessaloniki, Greece)
Thessaloniki, Greece
2007

Symposium Abstracts
  • Burnett, Gary R.  ( GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, Weybridge, Surrey, N/A, United Kingdom )
    • Symposium
    Addressing Oral Malodor
    09/28/2007