Oral DNA Testing in Southlake
Our office is now able to use DNA testing to identify the exact kind of bacteria that may be causing a patient periodontal (gum) disease. This will help us determine the source of a patient’s specific infection, as well as figure out if the bacteria could contribute to other overall health problems. This test also gives Dr. J. Lee Pettigrew valuable information as to which kinds of treatments will be the most effective.
After gathering a patient’s saliva sample, it will be sent to Oral DNA Labs® for analysis. Once this analysis has been completed, a MyPerioPath® report will be sent to us which contains the determination of the bacteria present, their relative levels, and possible treatment recommendations. This test also allows us to monitor the level of a certain bacteria after we have started treatment in order to see if it is working or not.
Who Can Benefit from this Test?
- People with a family history of periodontal disease
- People with cardiovascular disease
- People with diabetes or a family history of diabetes
- People with salivary dysfunction or (dry mouth)
- People prior to cardiovascular surgery
- People prior to joint replacement surgery
- People about to undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- People who are immunocompromised
How We Can Use It to Help You
Periodontal disease can have a very wide reaching effect on the body, way beyond the teeth and gums. The same bacteria found in periodontal disease has actually been shown to increase a person’s risk of heart disease, diabetes, and even dementia.
By learning which bacteria is causing a patient’s infection, we can better formulate their treatment plan. This may include using non-surgical periodontal therapy and antibiotic therapy. This test is especially important in determining which antibiotics would be most effective.
By treating your periodontal disease precisely, we’ll be able to help you well beyond your smile. With the correct approach, we can drastically decrease your chances of suffering from serious health problems related directly to this infection. Many local healthcare specialists send their patients to Dr. Pettigrew for this test because it can be so useful in preventing a wide variety of ailments. In fact, for one local cardiologist, it is an essential part of their overall-wellness plan for their patients. They know that healthy gums mean much more than just a healthy smile; they are also a big part of a healthy body as well.
To learn more about how this test works and how it can help you, click here.