Your saliva is more than just the liquid that keeps your mouth moist. It also contains important minerals that strengthen and protect teeth. Plus, it is a treasure trove of information! If your dentist recommends saliva testing, you can look forward to gaining powerful insight into your oral and overall health. What are some of the issues that this non-invasive process can reveal? Continue reading this blog post to find out.
Gum Disease Bacteria
When your dentist performs saliva testing, one of the key things they look for is the presence of bacteria linked to gum disease. These types of bacteria can quietly cause inflammation and tissue damage, often before you notice obvious symptoms like bleeding or swelling. By identifying these bacteria early, your dental team can recommend targeted treatments or hygiene changes that may prevent the progression of gum disease and protect your smile.
Cavity-Causing Bacteria
Your saliva can also reveal whether you have an unusually high level of cavity-causing bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans. These bacteria feed on sugars and produce acids that wear away tooth enamel, leading to decay. If your test shows elevated levels, your dentist can help you adjust your diet, oral hygiene routine, or even prescribe special rinses to lower your risk of developing cavities.
Oral Infections
Saliva testing is valuable for spotting certain oral infections that might otherwise go unnoticed. For example, some viral or fungal infections can cause discomfort or damage, but may not be noticeable during a routine exam. With saliva testing, your dentist can detect these issues early, allowing you to receive treatment promptly and avoid further complications.
Insight Into Your Overall Health
Beyond your mouth, the information gathered from saliva testing can provide clues about your systemic health. Saliva can contain markers for conditions like diabetes, hormonal imbalances, or even stress levels. When your dentist reviews your saliva test results, they may be able to alert you to concerns that need follow-up with your primary care provider, potentially helping you manage your overall wellness more proactively.
Saliva testing is a simple yet powerful tool that can give you a clearer picture of your oral and overall health. Next time your dentist recommends it, you can commit to this easy and painless process with confidence.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Annie Yu has been practicing dentistry for nearly 20 years. She is a Master of the Academy of General Dentistry, which is a rare distinction in the field. She and our team proudly offer saliva testing in our Chevy Chase practice. To learn more about us or to set up an appointment, contact Avant Dentistry at 240-743-4421.