At Aerni Dental, Dr. William M. Aerni is committed to providing the best possible care for his patients. As part of this commitment, Dr. Aerni utilizes advanced salivary diagnostics from OralDNA® Labs. These tests offer valuable insights into your oral and overall health, allowing for personalized and effective treatment plans. Here’s why incorporating saliva testing can be a game-changer for your dental care.
Understanding the Connection Between Oral and Systemic Health
The Hidden Threats: Oral Pathogens
Oral bacteria can be more than just a cause of cavities and gum disease. These pathogens can significantly impact your overall health, increasing the risk of serious conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, and complications during pregnancy. Saliva tests help identify these harmful bacteria, providing an early warning system to prevent and manage these health risks.
Genetic Markers and Inflammation
Inflammation plays a critical role in the severity of gum disease and other systemic conditions. Saliva tests can reveal if you have genetic markers associated with increased inflammation, helping Dr. Aerni tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
Comprehensive Testing Options
Early Warning of Oral Pathogens
The periodontal pathogen test is designed to detect the specific bacteria that cause gum disease. By identifying these pathogens early, Dr. Aerni can develop a targeted treatment plan to manage your periodontal health and reduce the risk of related systemic conditions.
High-Risk Pathogens Tested:
- Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
- Porphyromonas gingivalis
- Tannerella forsythia
- Treponema denticola
Moderate Risk Pathogens Tested:
- Eubacterium nodatum
- Fusobacterium nucleatum/periodonticum
- Prevotella intermedia
- Campylobacter rectus
- Peptostreptococcus (Micromonas) micros
Genetic Susceptibility
The periodontal genetic susceptibility test identifies if you have a genetic predisposition to severe periodontal infections due to an exaggerated immune response. This information is crucial for creating a personalized treatment strategy that considers your genetic makeup.
Assessing Cancer Risk
HPV is a leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers. The HPV test detects high-risk types of HPV that can lead to oral cancer, allowing for early intervention and monitoring.
Health Implications of Oral Pathogens
Cardiovascular Disease
Research has shown that bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream and contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a major cause of heart attacks and strokes. By identifying and managing these bacteria, Saliva tests help protect your heart health.
Diabetes
Patients with gum disease often have higher blood sugar levels, complicating diabetes management. Saliva tests can pinpoint the bacteria contributing to this issue, enabling more effective treatment and better blood sugar control.
Pregnancy Complications
Infections caused by bacteria such as Fusobacterium nucleatum can lead to preterm birth, low birth weight, and maternal health problems. Saliva testing helps mitigate these risks by identifying harmful bacteria early.
Personalized Treatment and Follow-Up
Tailored Therapies
With the detailed information provided by saliva tests, Dr. Aerni can customize your treatment plan to address your specific bacterial profile and genetic markers. This personalized approach ensures more effective and targeted care.
Monitoring Progress
Ordering follow-up tests allows Dr. Aerni to monitor the effectiveness of your treatment plan and make necessary adjustments. Your progress reports will provide a clear picture of your progress, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Embrace Advanced Care with Saliva Testing
At Aerni Dental, we believe in the power of advanced diagnostics to improve patient outcomes. Saliva tests offer a comprehensive view of your oral health and its impact on your overall well-being. By incorporating these tests into your dental care, Dr. Aerni ensures that you receive the most informed, personalized, and effective treatment possible.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Aerni Dental today. Let us help you achieve a healthier smile and a healthier life.