A few weeks ago, we discussed how our providers will take a plaque sample and create a microscope slide to identify if you have any harmful bacteria in your mouth. Though we teach patients how to keep their mouths healthy and how to remove the bacteria found on their slide, there are times that the bacteria persists and continues to infect the patient’s mouth and their overall health. For this reason, we will continue to monitor oral bacteria at each appointment even after patients commit to prioritizing their oral health.

After you have had recurring educational appointments with your hygienist and committed to making changes to your home care routine, if bleeding and inflammation are still present in your gum tissues your hygienist will recommend a bacteria test. Bleeding and inflamed gums are a warning sign that you are at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and many other dangerous health issues.

A bacterial test identifies if there are elevated levels of pathogens in your mouth. If there are, these pathogens could enter your blood stream every time you eat, brush, or floss your teeth, especially if your gums are bleeding.

Below is an example of bacterial tests result from OraVital. This patient was tested and treated accordingly 4 times over the course of the last year. As you will notice, bacterial infection levels decreased each time until the infection was no longer present.

Once we receive the bacterial report from OraVital, we are able to treat the infection with antibiotic creams and rinses. We will schedule follow up appointments to continue to evaluate the infection and likely periodically retest to ensure that the infection has not returned.

If you would like more information about oral bacterial testing you can check out the OraVital website or call Dr. Roper, Kayla, or Johana at the office.