Oral health is tightly linked to overall health and well-being. Harmful bacteria in the mouth can lead to dental problems like cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis. More concerning is that these oral bacteria have been associated with systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. That’s why early detection of harmful bacteria is crucial for preventive care. At 12 Oaks Dental in Austin, TX, Dr. Elyse Barron and Dr. Marc Worob offer an innovative Salivary Bacteria Test to identify the specific strains of bacteria unique to each patient’s mouth.
What is the Salivary Bacteria Test?
The salivary bacteria test offered by 12 Oaks Dental is known as the HR5 test. This simple saliva test identifies 5 major perio pathogens in the mouth that contribute to gum disease, tooth decay, and other health issues. Patients simply spit into a small collection tube in the dental office. The saliva sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. As Mark Twain once said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Identifying the harmful bacteria early is key for preventive dental care.
Benefits of the Salivary Bacteria Test
The salivary bacteria test provides many advantages for patients:
- Early Detection: Finding harmful bacteria before severe dental or health problems occur.
- Non-Invasive: No blood draws, just easy spit collection.
- Preventive Care: Take steps to control bacteria before major infections.
- Health Insights: Oral-systemic health connections of some bacteria.
- Personalized Treatment: Custom dental plans based on individual results.
Bacteria Tested For:
Here are some details on the 5 major bacteria strains tested:
1. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa)
– Causes severe gum disease like periodontitis.
– Associated with heart issues and brain infections.
2. Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg)
– Leads to gum disease and tooth loss.
– Tied to heart attack, stroke, diabetes, dementia.
3. Treponema denticola (Td)
– Contributes to gum disease.
– Linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Tannerella forsythia (Tf)
– Causes gum disease and implant failure.
– Further research needed on health impacts.
5. Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn)
– Promotes gum disease and implant failure.
– Associated with preterm birth risks.
Why Choose 12 Oaks Dental, Austin, TX?
At 12 Oaks Dental, we take a whole-body approach to oral health. Our dentists can collaborate with cardiologists, internal medicine doctors, and other specialists to educate patients on oral-systemic health connections and coordinate care for complete health dentistry.
