Oral DNA Testing

As medical advancements continue to soar, our treatments are becoming more efficient and our diagnostic tools more sophisticated. Our DNA testing detects strains of bacteria present in your mouth that can cause gum disease and other oral and whole-body problems and what treatments would be most effective is eliminating the identified issue.

What is Oral DNA Testing?

Oral DNA testing, also called salivary testing, is an FDA-regulated diagnostic tool that uses the DNA in saliva to recognize potential oral and overall health issues.

What can a test determine?
Since salivary DNA can reveal most of the information that is determined in a blood test, we use an oral DNA test to diagnose many oral and overall health conditions and diseases. As your dentist, we can link the data we collect to:

  • Hearth disease
  • Gum disease
  • Diabetes
  • Risks for heart attack, stroke, inflammation, and oral cancer

It’s important to understand the connection between gingivitis and oral bacteria with heart attacks. Likewise, strokes can be caused by oral bacteria in gum infections that cause inflammation in the arteries and blood clots. When we can identify heath issues, you can seek treatment early, protecting your oral and overall health.

Oral DNA Testing for Gum Disease

We all have bacteria in our mouths, but there are 11 different types that trigger periodontal (gum) disease. Saliva testing detects those particular bacteria, so we can treat you accordingly.

Benefits of Oral DNA Analysis

Salivary tests are much easier and less painful than blood tests while gleaning the same amount of important genetic and health information. Compared to blood tests, oral DNA tests are:

  • Less invasive
  • More affordable
  • Quicker at producing results
  • More comfortable
  • More desirable to those with small veins or an aversion to needles

Oral DNA tests allow dentists to identify problems right away and immediately create treatment plans to reduce the risk of danger to your mouth and whole body. Oral DNA analysis detects inflammatory risk markers and HPV strains, the primary cause of oropharyngeal cancers.

Ask your dentist for an oral DNA test if:

  • You’ve noticed you have gum disease symptoms.
  • You’d like to know your risk of developing gum disease.
  • Your child or family member has been diagnosed with gum disease.
  • You’re genetically predisposed to gum disease.
  • You’re scheduled for orthodontic or restorative dental treatment.

At Bethesda Center for Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we are committed to helping you maintain optimal oral and overall heath, so we encourage you to have oral DNA testing done during your regularly scheduled oral hygiene appointments with us. Let’s discuss it at your next checkup!