Reviewed by Dr. Brett Broda
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Reading time: three minutes
Many people think of saliva simply as something that aids digestion and keeps the mouth comfortable. However, it can also provide valuable information about oral bacteria and inflammatory markers. Through salivary testing, dentists can gain insight into a patient’s oral health risks and identify factors that may be linked to broader health concerns.
Table of Contents
What Is Salivary Testing?
Salivary testing is a simple, non-invasive test that analyzes a saliva sample for specific bacteria and markers associated with oral disease. At Broda Family Dental, samples are collected in the office and sent to SimplyTest for analysis.
The results can help identify bacteria that are commonly associated with periodontal and other oral diseases as well as other inflammatory conditions. This information provides a more detailed look at what may be happening below the surface, even when symptoms are not obvious. This is especially helpful for people with a family history of disease or with unusual disease presentation or symptoms.
The Connection Between Oral Bacteria and Overall Health
Research continues to show that oral health and overall health are closely connected. The mouth contains hundreds of different types of bacteria. When harmful bacteria accumulate and trigger inflammation, the effects may extend beyond the gums and teeth.
Certain oral bacteria have been associated with conditions such as:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Pregnancy and birth complications
- Chronic inflammatory conditions
- Autoimmune and neurological risks
- Cancer risk
Chronic inflammation in the mouth can contribute to the body’s overall inflammatory burden, making oral health an important part of long-term wellness. Identifying harmful bacteria and treating periodontal disease early may help support both oral and overall health.
Who Is Salivary Testing For?
While saliva testing is a valuable diagnostic tool, it is not something that every patient needs. It is most often recommended for those who may be at a higher risk of developing oral or systemic health complications. It helps us to identify factors that may be contributing to disease and develop a more personalized treatment approach.
This may include:
- Individuals with moderate or severe gum disease
- Those with a family history of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or stroke
- Individuals who have existing systemic health conditions
- Those whose periodontal disease is not responding as expected to treatment
- Individuals experiencing recurring inflammation despite good oral hygiene habits
- People who want a more complete picture of their oral health
How Can Salivary Testing Help Guide Treatment?
Every patient’s oral health is unique. Two patients may have similar symptoms but very different bacterial profiles. Salivary tests can complement clinical exams, digital imaging, and periodontal evaluations to provide a more complete picture of oral health.
Salivary testing can help us:
- Identify bacteria associated with periodontal disease
- Better understand a patient’s risk factors
- Personalize treatment recommendations
- Determine whether additional therapies may be beneficial
- Monitor changes over time
Advanced Diagnostics for Personalized Dental Care
At Broda Family Dental, Dr. Broda believes that better information leads to better decisions. His approach focuses on individualized care and oral-systemic health. He also uses modern diagnostic tools when they can provide meaningful benefits for patients.
Patients with elevated risk factors may benefit from salivary testing. It may also be helpful for those with persistent periodontal concerns or a family history of systemic disease. The test can provide insights that are not available through a routine examination alone. When combined with comprehensive exams, CBCT imaging, and preventive care, it can help guide personalized treatment recommendations.
Dentist in Boulder, CO
We are always accepting new patients! To book an appointment at our dental office in Boulder, CO, call (303) 442-6141 or visit us at 777 29th St, Unit 300, Boulder, CO 80303.
FAQ
Is salivary testing painful?
No, salivary testing only requires a saliva sample and does not involve needles or invasive procedures. Collection of a sample is easy and takes less than a minute.
Does every patient need salivary testing?
No, salivary testing is generally recommended for patients with periodontal disease or elevated risk factors. It may also be helpful for those with systemic health concerns or cases that are not responding as expected to treatment.
Can salivary testing diagnose heart disease or diabetes?
Salivary testing cannot diagnose systemic diseases. It can identify bacteria and markers that have been associated with inflammation and certain health conditions. Many patients will take this information to their primary care doctors to help make more informed decisions.
How long does it take to receive salivary testing results?
Results are only available after the laboratory has completed its analysis of the saliva sample. Your provider will review the findings and discuss any recommendations based on the results. Turn around times vary, but typically from 1-3 weeks.
