What is salivary testing?
A salivary test collects a small sample of your saliva and analyzes it for specific bacteria, inflammatory markers, and other biological indicators that standard dental exams can’t detect visually.
Different tests identify different things:
Cavity Risk Testing
Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus are the bacteria most responsible for tooth decay. A salivary test measures the concentration of these organisms in your mouth. High counts indicate elevated cavity risk — giving us the information we need to intensify preventive care before decay develops, rather than treating it after.
Periodontal Pathogen Testing
Gum disease is caused and sustained by specific strains of bacteria in the gum pockets. Salivary pathogen testing identifies which organisms are present and at what levels — guiding treatment decisions and helping us determine whether a patient needs more targeted antimicrobial therapy alongside standard scaling and root planing.
Systemic Disease Indicators
Research continues to strengthen the link between oral bacteria and systemic conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions. Some salivary diagnostics screen for inflammatory markers associated with these connections — information that can be shared with a patient’s physician as part of coordinated care.
Who benefits from salivary testing at Cedar Village Dentistry
- Have a history of frequent cavities despite consistent brushing and flossing
- Have active or recurring gum disease that hasn’t fully responded to standard treatment
- Have a family history of significant dental disease
- Are managing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or another systemic condition
- Want a more detailed picture of their oral health baseline before starting a major treatment plan (implants, orthodontics, or cosmetic work)
- Haven’t found the cause of persistent oral health challenges
How the testing works
Based on the results, our team can:
Adjust the frequency of your hygiene visits
Recommend specific antimicrobial rinses or prescription-strength fluoride
Modify your care plan to address identified bacterial threats
Coordinate with your physician if systemic markers are flagged
Salivary testing FAQs
Is salivary testing painful?
How accurate is the testing?
Will my insurance cover it?
How often should I do salivary testing?
Do I need a special appointment for salivary testing?
In most cases, we can collect the sample during an existing cleaning or exam appointment. Call (513) 770-4370 to confirm and let us know you’re interested so we have the materials ready.
This is the future of health awareness!
And it’s happening right now at Cedar Village Dentistry. Enjoy the latest dental techniques as part of your treatment.
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Insurance
and Financing
Cedar Village Dentistry accepts cash, check, credit cards, and offers flexible financing and payment options, including CareCredit. We also accept most insurance plans and are happy to help you maximize your benefits.
No insurance? No problem.
Our membership plan includes:
- 2 cleanings
- All exams
- Needed x-rays
- Oral cancer screening
- 30% off deep cleanings
- 15-20% discount on treatments
All for just $369 a year.
Call (513) 770-4370 to learn more.
Have questions about your insurance?
We can help you understand your benefits and file insurance forms on your behalf.
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