Gum disease (periodontitis or periodontal disease) is often a hidden problem, caused by harmful bacteria penetrating the gums. These bacteria not only attack your teeth and gums but have been linked to other serious health issues like Heart disease, Diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Gut health and more. Periodontal pathogen testing is a specialized saliva test that tells us exactly which harmful microbes are in your mouth and at what levels.
At DMD Dental in Scottsdale, Arizona, we use this test as an early-warning system. By catching troublemakers early, we can tailor a treatment plan to protect your smile and overall health.
What is Periodontal Pathogen Testing?
Periodontal pathogen testing gives you a complete picture of your oral environment. We collect a sample of your saliva right here in the office and send it to a lab. The lab identifies the specific bacteria known to cause gum and systemic disease, and can even check for genetic markers linked to inflammation.
In other words, this test reveals which germs lurk under your gums and whether you’re prone to inflammation. With that information, our dentist can create a personalized prevention or treatment plan for you.
How the test works:
- A small saliva sample is collected during your appointment.
- The sample is analyzed in a lab to identify harmful bacteria and any genetic risk factors.
- Dr. DuMond (our dentist) reviews the results with you.
- Together, we develop a targeted plan to eliminate those bacteria and keep your gums healthy.
Why Early Detection Matters
Finding the exact germs responsible for gum disease makes early intervention possible. This can help you avoid more invasive treatments later. For example, if we know which bacteria are present, we can attack them with focused cleanings designed to attack your specific pathogens. Periodontal pathogen testing also identifies genetic inflammation markers. If you’re genetically prone to severe gum problems, cardiovascular disease, or blood sugar control (glycemic control) , we’ll know up front and take extra preventive steps. In short, this testing illuminates hidden oral pathogens and genetic risks, so we can fight gum disease and systemic inflammation.
Key benefits:
- Pinpoints the exact bacteria causing inflammation.
- Establishes a personalized treatment program to attack pathogens
- Highlights genetic risk factors for whole-body inflammation.
- Allows us to track your progress and maintain your oral health over time.
Early detection through periodontal testing means healthier gums, fresher breath, reduced risk of tooth loss and lower systemic inflammation. It’s an invaluable tool for prevention – and it may even help protect your overall health by stopping gum disease before it starts.
Who Can Benefit from Periodontal Pathogen Testing?
While anyone can benefit from understanding their oral bacteria, this test is especially recommended for patients who:
- Show signs of moderate to severe gum disease.
- Experience bleeding gums, chronic bad breath, or gum recession.
- Have systemic health conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
- Are at risk of periodontal disease progression despite regular cleanings.
- Have undergone periodontal treatment, but are not responding as expected.
This testing is also valuable for those with a family history of periodontal disease, as certain bacteria can be passed between family members.
Schedule Your Appointment
Ready to protect your smile? Contact DMD Dental in Scottsdale, Arizona, today to schedule your periodontal pathogen testing. Our friendly team will collect your saliva sample, explain the results, and help you take preventive steps so you can enjoy a healthy smile for years to come.
Call our office or fill out our online form to book your appointment now. Early detection is key – let us help you keep gum disease at bay!
Dr. Erika Du Mond
Dr. Du Mond is a graduate of Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona. She loves dentistry as she knows she can improve her patients’ oral and systemic health by demystifying oral care and disease. Dr. Du Mond is a third-generation dentist striving to help her patients learn more about the many ways they can benefit from an integrative approach to dentistry. She looks forward to offering a new way of experiencing oral health care in Scottsdale.