Salivary Diagnostics

Your mouth hosts a complex ecosystem of microorganisms—some play a protective role, while others can contribute to oral health problems.

Salivary diagnostic testing helps identify the presence of harmful bacteria, making it an essential tool to treat, heal and inspire oral health.

Benefits of salivary diagnostics

Our approach: Treat the cause, not the symptoms

Did you know that your oral health is directly linked to your overall health and wellness?

For example, periodontal disease has been associated with serious, systemic health conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. We call this connection the oral-systemic health link. Or to put it another way, what happens in one area of the body has a tendency to affect other areas as well.

We believe in treating the cause, not just the symptoms. This means taking a whole-body approach to your health.

Using an oral-systemic approach, we’re able to:

  • Create highly personalized treatments
  • Enable better risk assessment for more predictable outcomes
  • Establish a systematic way to track patient oral health progress
  • Manage oral bacteria effectively

Oral DNA Testing at Julita Patil DDS

Personalized Diagnostics for Better Oral and Whole-Body Health

 

At Julita Patil DDS, we proudly offer the full suite of OralDNA® tests to help uncover the root causes of oral health concerns and support overall wellness. These advanced, saliva-based tests can detect periodontal pathogens, assess genetic susceptibility to gum disease, identify oral HPV, and more.

We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we help determine which test is right for you—based on your specific symptoms, concerns, and health goals.

Whether you’re managing chronic gum issues, exploring your genetic risk factors, or simply being proactive about your health, OralDNA testing gives us valuable insight to personalize your care.

Ask us how OralDNA testing can benefit you at your next visit—or contact us today to learn more

What causes bad bacteria to take root?

The oral microbiome is a complex ecosystem consisting of various microorganisms, with bacteria being the most abundant. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and, by extension, your overall health. They help in digesting food, preventing harmful pathogens from taking hold, and even influencing your breath.

Maintaining a healthy balance of oral bacteria is essential. When the equilibrium is disrupted, it can lead to oral health problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Several factors can influence the balance of your oral microbiome, including diet, oral hygiene habits, genetics, and overall health

The role of salivary diagnostics testing

Salivary diagnostics testing is a tool used to assess the composition of your oral microbiome. This non-invasive and painless procedure involves collecting a sample of your saliva and analyzing it to identify the types and quantities of bacteria present. The information obtained from this test can provide valuable insights into your oral health and overall well-being. Here’s how:

  • Early detection of imbalances: Salivary bacteria testing can reveal if there is an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in your mouth. Detecting these imbalances early can help prevent oral health issues before they become more severe.
  • Personalized oral care: By understanding your unique oral microbiome, your dentist can tailor oral care recommendations to your specific needs. This might include changes in your oral hygiene routine, dietary adjustments, or even probiotic supplements.
  • Monitoring progress: If you’re undergoing treatment for oral health issues, salivary bacteria testing can be used to monitor the effectiveness of interventions. It allows for a more targeted and evidence-based approach to managing your oral health.

Benefits of salivary diagnostics testing

  • Preventative care: Identifying and addressing oral health issues at an early stage can prevent more severe problems down the road.
  • Personalized treatment: Your dentist can develop a customized treatment plan based on your unique oral microbiome, increasing the chances of successful outcomes.
  • Improved overall health: Emerging research suggests that the oral microbiome may have links to systemic health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. By maintaining a healthy oral microbiome, you may positively impact your overall health.
  • Better understanding: Salivary bacteria testing can help you gain a deeper understanding of the factors that influence your oral health and allow you to make informed choices.

Should I take a salivary diagnostics test?​

Your oral health is intricately connected to your overall well-being, and the composition of your oral microbiome plays a pivotal role in this relationship. Salivary bacteria testing offers an opportunity to gain insights into your unique oral ecosystem, empowering you to take proactive steps toward maintaining good oral health and, consequently, improving your overall quality of life. Consider discussing this valuable diagnostics tool with your dentist during your next visit to unlock the benefits of personalized oral care.

Looking for Dental Clinic in Concord, CA? We are happy to offer Salivary Diagnostics near you at our dental clinic. Schedule your consultation today!

FAQS

What is salivary diagnostic testing used for?

Salivary diagnostic testing helps detect oral and systemic health conditions, including gum disease, oral cancer, and even risks for heart disease and diabetes.

The test is simple and non-invasive—a saliva sample is collected and analyzed to detect bacteria, viruses, or biomarkers related to various health conditions.

Salivary diagnostics can identify periodontal disease, HPV-related oral cancer risks, bacterial imbalances, and even early signs of conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

Anyone experiencing chronic bad breath, gum disease, or a history of oral infections may benefit from testing. It’s also helpful for patients monitoring their overall health.

Salivary testing is highly accurate and backed by scientific research, providing valuable insights into your oral and overall health.

Dr. Julita Patil

Dr. Julita Patil, DDS, is a highly skilled and dedicated dentist in Concord, CA. A proud alumna of UC Davis and UC San Francisco, she holds a B.S. in Biochemistry and a Doctorate in Dental Surgery (DDS), specializing in a wide range of treatments, including bridges, implant-supported dentures, sedation dentistry, and CEREC one-visit crowns, to name a few. 

Kind Words

5-star reviews

Have been going to Dr. Patel for over 20 years and they have always been great. Today A new technician, Julia, cleaned my teeth and did a fabulous job. She was patient, thorough with a nice gentle technique. Thanks, Julia.
~ Gil Knapp

Partnerships

Financing

payments

For your convenience we have flexible payment options, we accept cash, check, Zelle, all major credit cards, and 0% percent financing.

0% Financing

If your dental needs exceed your benefit level and you would find it beneficial to make payments in installments, we offer flexible dental financing options. Through Cherry or Care Credit, you can choose from several 0% financing options to use for yourself or any family member.

Insurance

As a service to our patients, we will submit dental insurance claims for the treatments you receive. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with your insurance policy and benefits. 

Contact Us

Hours

Tuesday – Thursday: 8 am – 5 pm
Friday: 7am – 2pm
Monday & Weekends: Closed

Dr. Patil serves Concord, CA and surrounding areas including Walnut Creek, Alamo, Danville, Lafayette, Orinda, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, and Clayton.

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