Oral Pathogen Test
The key to optimal oral health
Our accurate and comprehensive salivary test detects hidden pathogens that threaten your oral and systemic health.
Oral Pathogen Test
The key to optimal oral health
Our mouth hosts millions of bacteria, most of which are harmless. A lot of these guys play essential roles in maintaining oral health. However, some types of bacteria aren’t so friendly, and those are known as oral pathogens. If not properly managed, oral pathogens can cause significant issues for the mouth and the entire body.
Harmful bacteria can lead to gum disease, a condition where the tissues supporting our teeth become inflamed and infected. If gum disease progresses without treatment, it can result in tooth loss. Infected gums can also open up pathways for pathogens to enter the bloodstream.
When these bacteria hitch a ride from inflamed gums into our circulatory system, their world opens up and their impact expands. Oral pathogens touring the body appear to significantly increase our risks of a very wide range of serious diseases. Studies have shown that the presence of oral pathogens is associated with chronic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections and even Alzheimer’s disease. So, good oral hygiene is an absolute must. It is also a very good idea to consider an oral pathogen test to gain detailed insights that can help us keep these harmful bacteria in check.
What is an oral pathogen test?
An oral pathogen test is a gentle procedure which simply requires a sample of saliva. Also known as an oral microbiome or saliva test, this is a valuable diagnostic tool used to assess your overall oral health. It focuses on analysing your mouth’s microscopic organisms to identify specific bacteria linked to gum disease and other oral health issues. By understanding which bacteria are present and in what quantities, we can gain insights into your oral health. We use this valuabel knowledge to devise powerful treatment plans that improve your oral health and reduce your risks of systemic health troubles.
How does it work?
Getting an oral pathogen test is straightforward and non-invasive:
Saliva sample: You’ll be asked to swish and gargle a saline solution in your mouth for about 30 seconds. After swishing, you’ll spit the solution into a collection tube. This provides us with a representative sample of the saliva and bacteria in your mouth.
Plaque sample: As part of your regular dental check-up and cleaning, we offer an oral biofilm pathogen screening. Our dentist or hygienist will take a small sample of plaque and bacteria from beneath your gums.
Laboratory analysis: We’ll then examine the collected saliva or plaque sample in our onsite oral pathogen laboratory. Using advanced techniques like DNA sequencing or polymerase chain reaction (PCR), we’ll analyse the sample to identify the types and quantities of bacteria present. These methods allow for precise identification of harmful bacteria contributing to gum disease and other oral health issues.
Why is it important?
Detecting harmful bacteria early is a crucial part of designing the ideal personalised treatment to prevent or manage gum disease in your unique case. Several important benefits are unlocked with this valuable test:
Pinpoint the cause: The test can accurately identify the specific bacteria responsible for gum inflammation. Detailed information we gain from this helps us to understand the root cause of your gum disease, so we can optimally target your treatment.
Tailor treatment: Based on the test results, we can develop a customised treatment plan. For example, we may prescribe specific antibiotics to target the problem bacteria. This can reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to your gums and teeth.
Assess overall health risks: Research has shown that oral pathogens are not only linked to gum disease but also to chronic health conditions. Finding these bacteria early can help assess the risk of developing or exacerbating serious health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, poor nutrition and pregnancy complications. Addressing oral health problems can, therefore, have a positive impact on your overall well-being.
Get to know the key oral pathogen
Know thy enemy. The most effective treatment is only possible when you understand the specific bacteria involved in gum disease. These harmful microorganisms are identified in our test, allowing us to uniquely tailor your treatment plan.
High-risk pathogens are strongly associated with severe periodontitis:
- Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans: This bacterium is a primary cause of aggressive periodontitis, known for rapidly destroying the bone and tissues supporting your teeth.
- Porphyromonas gingivalis: Known for its destructive enzymes, this pathogen significantly contributes to gum tissue breakdown and inflammation.
- Tannerella forsythia: Often found in high numbers in periodontal pockets, this bacterium is a key player in the progression of gum disease.
- Treponema denticola: A spiral-shaped bacterium, this one plays a significant role in gum inflammation and tissue destruction.
Moderate-risk pathogens accelerate periodontitis:
- Eubacterium nodatum: Found alongside gum disease and other oral infections, this bacterium can exacerbate periodontal issues.
- Fusobacterium nucleatum/periodonticum: Periodontal inflammation and disease are linked to this common oral bacterium.
- Prevotella intermedia: Often found in increased numbers in individuals with gum disease, this contributes to inflammation and tissue damage.
- Campylobacter rectus: Associated with periodontal disease and other oral infections, this bacterium can worsen gum health.
- Peptostreptococcus (Micromonas) micros: This common oral bacterium contributes to gum inflammation and disease.
Low-risk pathogens are often present in the oral cavity but have a lower association with periodontitis:
- Eikenella corrodens: Often found in the mouth, this bacterium is less strongly linked to gum disease.
- Capnocytophaga species (gingivalis, ochracea, sputigena): These bacteria are commonly present in the oral environment, and their role in periodontitis is less clear and considered minimal.
Protect your whole body’s health, starting with your smile.
If a long and healthy life is your priority, you need to keep harmful pathogens out of your system, and get expert advice on dealing with any which are building colonies in you. Our oral pathogen test can detect harmful bacteria early, helping you to prevent serious health issues down the track. Beginning in your mouth, oral pathogens may predispose you to a wide range of whole-body issues.
At Dental Paradiso, we encourage you to protect your overall health with personalised care and advanced treatment. On-site and extremely gentle, your oral pathogen test could be the difference between a life of health and vitality or living with the kind of trouble we want to help you avoid. Let us know if you are interested in how your test can benefit you.
Book your oral pathogen test today and take control of your oral health.
Dental Paradiso is here to help
We understand that learning about potential health issues can be concerning. Our goal is to provide you with high quality information and support to help you make informed decisions about your oral health. We’re here to listen to your questions and concerns and guide you through the process.
Accurate and reliable oral bacteria testing in Osborne Park
Your well-being depends on your willingness to take care of your oral health. Investing in the most effective tests and treatments can be a powerful part of your strategy for oral hygiene and overall health. Contact our office to book an oral pathogen test so that, together, we can work to create the healthiest version of you.
