Why We Use Oral DNA Salivary Diagnostic Testing at Plano Family Dental

Oral DNA testing is an advanced, science-backed approach that uses your saliva to identify harmful bacteria in your mouth—giving us deeper insights into your gum health and how it may affect your overall wellness.

Unlike traditional periodontal diagnosis that relies solely on visual exams and probing, Oral DNA salivary testing provides personalized, bacteria-specific data that allows us to tailor your treatment for better outcomes.

Benefits of Oral DNA Testing for Gum Health

At Plano Family Dental, we use Oral DNA testing to:

• Deliver more effective gum treatment with measurable tissue healing
• Motivate patients by showing them real, actionable results
• Detect and treat periodontal disease at an earlier, more manageable stage
• Move beyond visual observation by using laboratory diagnostics
• Identify specific bacterial strains causing inflammation, allowing for targeted antibiotic therapy
• Offer tailored periodontal care—not just standard SRP, but custom treatment plans
• Increase awareness of how oral bacteria impacts overall health
• Support systemic wellness, especially in patients with heart conditions, diabetes, or during pregnancy
• Create an ongoing maintenance plan built on objective data
• Provide clear, science-backed justification for treatment recommendations

Salivary science has opened the door for diagnosing both oral and systemic conditions in a way that traditional exams alone cannot.

When to Consider Oral DNA Salivary Testing

We recommend Oral DNA testing in the following situations:

• Persistent bleeding gums in patients with otherwise excellent homecare
• Before and after SRP (Scaling and Root Planing) to track bacterial changes
• For implant or cosmetic cases, to ensure the mouth is stable enough to support treatment
• Patients with heart disease risk or a family history of cardiovascular conditions
• Pregnant patients to screen for bacteria linked to low birth weight or premature birth
• Patients presenting with oral abscesses or recurring gum infections
• New patient exams to establish a bacteria-based baseline of oral health
• For systemic screenings, as certain oral bacteria are linked to:
  • Pancreatic, breast, lung, and ovarian cancers
  • Cushing’s and Addison’s disease

Symptoms of Bacterial Overload in the Mouth

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may benefit from Oral DNA testing:

• Chronic bad breath or unpleasant taste
• Bleeding gums
• Swollen, painful, or red/puffy gums
• Loose teeth

Why It Matters

Even patients with great brushing and flossing habits can suffer from bacterial imbalances that lead to tissue damage. Oral DNA testing allows Dr. Varun Joseph and our hygiene team to treat the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Whether you’re preparing for implants, managing gum disease, or simply want a clearer picture of your oral-systemic health, we’re here to help.

To schedule an evaluation or learn more about Oral DNA testing, book an appointment online or call us at (972) 867-5090.

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