By: Kelley Brummett, DMD
This Article Originally Appeared in PankeyGram.Org. Dr. Brummett granted permission for igniteDDS to share with our readers.
Addressing Oral Inflammation with Saliva Testing
In the pursuit of providing exceptional dental care, focusing on holistic oral health is essential. Addressing inflammation and limiting the risk of infection in patients is not just about maintaining a healthy smileโitโs about supporting overall health.
By closely examining the oral microbiome in our patientsโ mouths, we can gain critical insights that guide our treatment planning, allowing us to actively prevent conditions like caries andย periodontal disease.
In my practice, weโve embraced an innovative approach: simple saliva testing through Simply Perio. This test has become an integral part of our efforts to reduce infection andย inflammation, whether itโs related to caries or periodontal disease.
Unlike traditional tests that often focus solely on red-complex bacteria linked to periodontal disease, Simply Perio offers a more comprehensive look. It allows us to examine red, orange, and green complex bacteria, as well as caries-related bacteria and yeast, for monitoring oral health conditions and preventingย systemicย inflammation.
Why Saliva Testing?
Saliva testing offers a similar approach to blood tests that physicians use to measure health indicators. Just as we analyze bloodwork to determine specific health needs, saliva testing gives us a snapshot of the bacterial environment in a patientโs mouth.
Knowing the types and quantities of oral microbiome present allows us to design tailored treatment plans that address specific bacterial risks.
Implementing this in our practice has been straightforward. The test kit is user-friendlyโpatients simply deposit a saliva sample into the kit, which is then sent to the lab.
In just a few days, we receive a detailed report that helps us understand the oral environment weโre working with.
The Impact on Periodontal Disease and Oral Health
One of the most valuable aspects of this saliva testing approach is the ability to measure results. For instance, when we perform scaling and root planning or other periodontal treatments, we start by conducting a saliva test.
After the treatment, we wait three to six months and then re-test. This way, we can assess if our treatment and the oral care advice we provide are effectively reducing harmful oral microbiome levels.
Saliva testing not only strengthens our ability to treat active periodontal disease but also serves as an invaluable tool in disease prevention.
By showing patients a tangible, measurable change in their bacterial levels, we empower them to take ownership of their oral health.
Practical Benefits and Cost
At a cost of just $99 per test, this approach is accessible to most patients and offers significant value. The results we gain help us better plan, treat, and manage each patientโs unique care needs, ensuring weโre supporting both oral and overall health.
Ensuring Consistent Monitoring of Harmful Oral Microbiome
While the benefits of saliva testing are clear, ensuring consistent application in the practice can be challenging.
Like many new systems, saliva testing might initially seem appealing, but without intentional effort, it risks falling out of routine. Dental teams may find it difficult to prioritize the time required for implementation, especially in the face of busy schedules.
To overcome this, itโs essential to make saliva testing a standard part of the patientโs check-ups. This includes training the team on its importance, building saliva testing into workflows, and setting reminders to revisit and re-test patients after initial treatments for potential inflammations.
When the team sees the tangible benefitsโnot just for patients but for the practiceโtheyโll be more motivated to adopt it consistently.
In Conclusion
Oral health is closely interconnected with systemic health, with the oral microbiome playing a significant role in many systemic conditions.
To learn more about having a comprehensive treatment approach, explore the hands-on courses at The Pankey Institute. Their expert faculty members will help you grasp skills to impact patientsโ oral health and the success of your practice!
