There’s a continual battle in our mouths among microscopic bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Unfortunately, most patients are unaware they’re vulnerable to pathogenic microbes until it’s too late.
There’s a simple way to know ahead of time. Some dentists advocate for saliva tests of the oral microbiome that might help prevent some 57 non-oral diseases that are now associated with periodontal disease. But most dentists don’t offer it. Neither do medical doctors. Insurance doesn’t cover it. And many professionals aren’t convinced the test matters much.
