Saliva Testing
A simple saliva sample that shows us your decay and gum-disease risk.
Overview
A saliva test is a quick, painless way to understand what's driving your risk — the specific bacteria in your mouth, the acidity (pH), and how well your saliva is protecting your teeth. We offer two complementary tests: one we run right here in the office, where you can watch your own bacteria under the microscope, and one we mail to a specialized lab for a deeper read. Instead of treating everyone the same, we use what we learn to build a plan around your mouth: who needs more frequent cleanings, who benefits from a targeted rinse, who needs help re-hardening enamel.
Who it's for
- Patients who keep getting cavities despite brushing and flossing — saliva often reveals the reason.
- Anyone with recurring gum inflammation who wants to know which bacteria are involved.
- People with dry mouth, from medications or other causes, who are at higher decay risk.
- Parents planning prevention for their kids, or anyone who wants a baseline to track.
Two ways we test
One test we run right here at the chair; the other we send to a lab. We'll talk through whether you need one or both.
See it live — the phase-contrast microscope (in our office)
We take a small sample, place it under a phase-contrast microscope, and you watch your own bacteria move on the screen in real time. We go through what we're seeing together right there — which bacteria are present and how active they are — so your risk isn't an abstraction. It's immediate and painless, and it's one complimentary reading of your oral bacteria — included in your visit.
A deeper read — a lab test that names the exact bacteria
For further salivary testing, we send a sample to a specialized lab — OralDNA or Perio SimplyTest. You give a quick sample, we mail it off, and the lab screens it for the specific bacteria and markers tied to gum disease and decay risk. It can name the exact bacteria involved — something a microscope can't — and the results come back to guide a more targeted plan. This deeper screening is an added fee, separate from the complimentary in-office reading.
What we do with the results
Either way, we walk you through the findings in plain language, then build your plan around them: your cleaning schedule, targeted rinses or enamel-rebuilding care, and adjustments to home care. Later we re-test to confirm your numbers have improved, so we know the plan is working.
The whole-health connection
The same oral bacteria and inflammation that saliva testing measures have been linked to heart health, blood-sugar control, and even pregnancy outcomes. A high-acid, high-bacteria mouth is a burden on the rest of your body. By measuring these markers and bringing them back into balance, saliva testing protects more than your enamel. When we know your risk, we can often stop a problem before it needs a drill.
Frequently asked
Is the test uncomfortable?
Not at all. It's just a small saliva sample — no needles, no scraping — and it fits easily into a regular visit.
How often should I be tested?
It depends on your risk. Most patients start with a baseline test, then re-check periodically to confirm the plan is working. If you've struggled with decay or gum issues, more regular testing helps us stay ahead of it.
What does it cost, and is it covered by insurance?
The in-office microscope reading is complimentary — included in your visit. The deeper lab screening (OralDNA or Perio SimplyTest) is an added fee; coverage varies by plan and we'll explain any cost up front. See our payment & insurance details.
Related services
Curious what a saliva test can show you?
It's a simple, painless first step in prevention.
Book a visit