Dr. Timothy Davis is now administering two diagnostic tests that provide supplemental information about a patient’s periodontal disease. This information can be used to develop patient-specific treatment plans for periodontal disease therapy and to help establish the therapy endpoint. The two salivary diagnostic tests, named MyPerioPath® and MyPerioID® are offered by OralDNA® Labs, Inc., a subsidiary of Quest Diagnostics.
Specifically, the MyPerioPath® test provides semi-quantitative levels of 11 different species of bacteria known to trigger periodontal disease. In addition to identifying the bacterial pathogens, the test provides a bacterial-related risk of disease progression and suggestions for suitable antibiotic therapy. MyPerioPathID® PST® test detects genetic changes (DNA polymorphisms) that have been associated with increased incidence and/or progression of chronic periodontal disease in some studies.
According to Dr. Davis, “We are very pleased to be the first periodontal practice in the Naples area to utilize the MyPerioPath® and MyPerioPathID® salivary diagnostic tests, enhancing our ability to provide the best possible care.”
Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissue and other structures supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. Besides helping to retain the teeth, successful periodontal treatment can help patients with diabetes and other systemic diseases to better control their disease. Roughly, 50% of Americans have gingival bleeding, the more common but less severe form of periodontal disease. Prevalence of more severe disease is more difficult to ascertain.
Several research studies have associated periodontal (gum) disease with other chronic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and rheumatoid arthritis. When we can identify the oral-systemic link, in addition to identifying risk factors for our patients, we can help our patients achieve better treatment outcomes and improved overall health.
Dr. Davis can administer any of the test on the full test menu:
Helps to create a personalized treatment plan by providing a specific bacterial profile in combination with inherited genetic risk.
Salivary DNA test that determines the cause of periodontal infections
Salivary DNA test that determines who is at increased risk for HPV-related oral cancers
Salivary DNA Test for an Accurate and Easy Way to Diagnose Herpes Simplex Virus Outbreaks Involving the Oropharynx
Salivary DNA Test to Identify Infections Caused by Various Species of the Yeast, Candida
Salivary DNA Test to Identify Chlamydia trachomatis(CT) and or Neisseria gonorrhea(NG) of the Oropharynx
Salivary DNA test to evaluate gene markers related to inflammatory response.
Salivary DNA tests to personalize prescription and dosing