Bacteria Testing

Cavities may not be the disease of the tooth, often they are caused by a bacterial imbalance in the mouth. A microscopic battle we often fight using the wrong tools. 

What is bacteria testing? 

Bacteria testing is an advanced tool in modern dentistry that offers a detailed look into your oral health. By simply providing a sample of your saliva, this non-invasive test can analyze your genetic information to identify specific bacteria linked to various oral health issues. The process of bacteria testing is straightforward. After collecting the sample of your saliva, it is then analyzed in a laboratory for specific bacterial DNA and genetic markers. This analysis provides detailed information about the bacteria present in your mouth, allowing your dental team to understand your unique oral health risks. With this personalized data, your dental team can create a tailored treatment plan and recommend targeted preventive measures to address any identified issues effectively. 

Who is bacteria testing for? 

Bacteria testing is ideal for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of their oral health risks and personalized care. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, bad breath, dry mouth leading to frequent cavities, bad taste or metallic taste of the mouth, or those at high risk for oral health issues. The test can detect harmful bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, which is strongly linked to gum inflammation, tissue damage, and tooth loss - all associated with periodontitis. Another key bacteria identified by the test is the presence of Streptococcus mutans, a major contributor to tooth decay and cavities. By identifying and addressing harmful bacteria early, bacteria testing helps you receive customized care that can improve your overall oral health. It is also valuable for patients who want to proactively manage their oral health and prevent potential problems before they become more serious.

How is it used at Toothlife? 

We recommend this to our patients who struggle to maintain a healthy oral environment even though they are doing all their home care properly. This shows us that there may be underlying issues associated with the bacteria that are present. Any patient who is undergoing SRP therapy or has a high caries risk would may be advised to have bacteria testing done. During the assessment phase and post operatively the dentist or dental hygienist may request an Oral DNA or bacterial test to identify if the levels of harmful bacteria are reducing based on the treatment provided. 

Based on the findings recommendations may be made like using specific creams or rinses created by a compounding pharmacy that will target the bacteria specifically with prescription rinses that are not found over the counter.