Bacteria DNA Testing

Since periodontal disease is a bacterial infection, it is very important to know which bacteria are present before treatment begins.

Using the Bacterial DNA test, we are able to identify exactly which bacteria are causing the infection. In the majority of cases, the DNA test will reveal that the type of bacteria that are present in the gums can be eliminated without the use of antibiotics.

In these cases, it is preferable to avoid antibiotics in order to prevent a drop in the immune system.

However, some species of bacteria cannot be brought under control using the treatment alone. Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) are aggressive species of bacteria that fall under this category.

If the test shows that these bacteria are present, then appropriate antibiotics are added to the treatment in order to produce complete healing.

What is the DNA test?

Bacterial DNA testing is based on the fact that each strain of bacteria has a specific "fingerprint" of genetic material. This fingerprint can then be analyzed in a laboratory to establish which species of bacteria are present in the infection.

Compared to culturing the bacteria, Bacterial DNA testing offers much greater accuracy as well as reduced cost.

How is the test performed?

Administering the DNA test is a quick, safe, and a painless process.

Four tiny paper points are placed under the gums for a period of 15 seconds. This is long enough to collect disease causing bacteria from under the gums.

These bacteria thrive in the plaque--otherwise known as biofilm--that covers the tooth roots down to the attachment level.

Once they are removed, the paper points are packaged and sent to the laboratory where the bacterial DNA will be analyzed to reveal which types of bacteria are present.

Why is the DNA test necessary?

The bacterial DNA test provides a scientifically accurate way of knowing which bacteria are causing the infection. Without the test, there is only one chance out of ten of choosing the right antibiotic combination to fight the bacteria under the gums.

When invasive bacteria are inside the tissue, on the roots and the bone, the B.O.S.T treatment can't reach them and antibiotics are needed to clear them out.

Without the focus given by the test, we are more likely producing resistant strains than good treatment results.

Most patients find that it is very reassuring to know whether or not they have aggressive strains of bacteria in their gums.

If the Aa and Pg are not present, patients feel relieved immediately. Patients who test positive for the aggressive strains of bacteria, on the other hand, gain a better understanding of why they have had such a difficult time with periodontal problems in the past.

They can feel hopeful for the future because they know that they will receive properly targeted antibiotics in addition to effective local treatment.

Who should take the test?

In addition to Periodontal treatment, the test should also be done prior to orthodontic treatment where force will be put on the bone and oral hygiene will be more difficult.

Aerobic hygiene is also important to help prevent common post-orthodontic problems like gum recession as well as gingivitis during treatment.

Periodontal disease has been linked to premature birth and infertility so a bacterial DNA test is a good measure to add before entering the reproductive years so prevention and/or treatment can be accomplished.

This picture shows how an absorbant paper point is guided in a pocket area under the gum line. We leave it for a few seconds to allow some fluid to be absorbed, containing some of the bacteria.

This is a comfortable procedure.