Brush up on the Bristle Oral Health Test:
FAQs about saliva testing to guide better oral overall health
Gateway Oral Health Center recognizes how insights into the mouth’s condition can provide clues to overall body health and vice versa. Likewise, the oral microbiome acts as a gateway, offering insights into the microorganisms in your mouth and indicating your risk of developing conditions near and distant from the mouth. Our biological dentistry team in St. George, Utah, prioritizes approaches to assessing the “oral environment” with services such as the Bristle Oral Health Test.
What do you mean by “oral microbiome”?
This term refers to a complex ecosystem of over 700 types of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and more. These microorganisms are present and may be detected in your saliva.
Why do these little microorganisms matter?
Balance is key. Some of these organisms are beneficial, whereas others are associated with dental and systemic diseases—ranging from gum disease to cardiovascular disease. When your oral microbiome or environment is “out of balance,” harmful species can grow out of control and contribute to developing disease that transcends the oral cavity. As a gateway to the body, the mouth can serve as a pathway for harmful bacteria linked to gum disease and other conditions to spread to other organs via the bloodstream.
How does Bristle test for these microorganisms and imbalances?
It’s easy! Just provide a small saliva sample for microbe analysis. On average, Bristle reports that more than 100 bacterial species are identified per sample. Based on our findings, a report is rendered with specific information about the nature and number of microbes present, the resulting disease risk, and personalized recommendations that go beyond merely “brush and floss.”
How do you use the Bristle test?
Bristle is a valuable tool. Our dentists, Drs. Bryce Eagar and Matthew Geddes will review the results with you. This helps us effectively communicate and educate patients like you about their individual needs and health status. Bristle is both proactive and an example of highly personalized medicine. Using the results and recommendations from the test, we can work to minimize any isolated risk factors. We can then stay ahead of the disease. Likewise, we can combat specific “bad bacteria” types to treat existing diseases with products and therapies proven to kill harmful microorganisms while leaving the beneficial bacteria alone. For instance, traditional mouthwashes and antibiotics kill all bacteria, not just the bad. However, Drs Eagar and Geddes can recommend techniques and products that work with beneficial microbes and are not against them.
How can I get started?
Schedule an appointment at Gateway Oral Health Center. The Bristle test and other diagnostics are fundamental to a dynamic hygiene program. Many of these tests can be easily incorporated into regular checkups at our St. George, UT office. Our team can be reached at (435) 656-0255.
