The OralChroma is a digital gas chromatograph that measures the chemical compounds produced by mouth bacteria. These toxic compounds, hydrogen sulphide, methyl mercaptan and dimethyl sulphide are a signal that the bacteria in the mouth are not in balance. These products not only contribute to bleeding tissues and halitosis but are harmful to the health o f the individual because they interfere with the taste, smell capability and respiratory centre of the individual.
Only the most aggressive bacteria produce these compounds called volatile sulphur compounds. Measurements of these compounds in the mouth air give us information on the presence and activity of certain bacteria. Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing may indicate the presence of these harmful substances as well as the bacteria that produce them.
To test for these compounds, a syringe is placed in the mouth for 30 seconds and 5 cc of mouth air is extracted by pulling back the plunger. This air sample is injected into the OralChroma unit. OralChroma test results are ready in 8 minutes, and you can watch the analysis in real time on a monitor. The picture is an illustration of the levels of these compounds that can be present in the mouth air.
OralChroma chart sample.
Click to enlarge.
