Salivary Diagnostics

As you may be aware, the past ten years have provided much insight into what is now called “The Oral-Systemic Connection”. There does appear to be a link between chronic periodontal infections and heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and some forms of cancer.

Through the lab of Oral DNA we can offer three new diagnostic tests that give us valuable information for the assessment and treatment of your condition. One of the tests can identify and measure certain bacteria that can cause gingivitis and periodontitis and enable us to determine the appropriate treatment regimen for your specific needs. The second test will help determine if you are at increased risk genetically for severe gum tissue infections and determine a possible preventive treatment regimen. The third test will determine if you are a carrier of the HPV virus.

HPV and Oral Cancer

Human Papillomavirus is one of the most common virus groups in the world. High-risk HPV types may cause an infection that may lead to cancer. New research has found links between high-risk HPV and 90% of cervical cancers.

These same high-risk types cause cancers for the mouth, tongue, tonsils, and throat area. Luckily, we can test for HPV in our office through an easy method using your saliva.

How is Salivary Diagnostic Done?

You will be asked to “swish and gargle” a sterile saline solution, which is emptied into a small, coded container that is sent to OralDNA Labs for testing.

Am I a Candidate for Salivary Diagnostics?

Individuals who are good candidates for testing are those with traditional risk factors for oral cancer such as smoking and alcohol, males and females that are sexually active, and those with a family history of oral cancer.