Clinical laboratory testing is a common practice for the medical professional. DNA testing, including genetic testing, has led to healthier patients. Cross over to dentistry, and let’s review 2 examples of what’s available. Presently, in my office, we perform MyPerioID® IL-6, a test for the genetic marker interleukin 6 (IL-6) to screen for genetic risk of periodontal disease and a viral DNA test for the human papilloma virus (HPV) to screen for risk of oral cancer. The collection is relatively simple and painless, and both tests can be ordered from a single sample collection. No needles, no drills, no blood. Just swish and gargle with the lab provided saline solution and spit into a test tube. One week later, your results are in.
So why is this important? Well, if you have a genetic variation of the IL-6 gene for risk of periodontal (gum) disease, you really don’t want to postpone periodontal care. Losing teeth is never a good thing (can’t smile and can’t eat) and it will be expensive to replace missing teeth with implants or dentures. I feel it is best to diagnose and treat periodontal disease before it is symptomatic to prevent it from manifesting.
As for the OraRisk® HPV test, it is good to know which HPV type(s) of the 51 strains tested you may have because there could be an increased risk of developing oral cancer. Knowing your HPV status allows your dental professional to determine if you need to have an oral cancer exam more frequently.
According to a new study published November 21, 2017 in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine, nationwide rates for oral HPV infections are 11.5% of men and 3.2% of women. That’s 11 million men compared with 3.2 million women. That means that about one in nine American men is infected with the oral form of human papillomavirus (HPV). Oral cancer occurs more frequently than most other common cancers. Due to late diagnosis, about half of the nearly 50,000 patients diagnosed every year with oral cancer in the U.S. will die of their disease.
For my office, this clinical laboratory testing is an approach to holistic, preventive health care and aids in patient education. Keep in mind that nearly all oral diseases develop to late stages with minimal or no pain until they are quite advanced. This includes tooth decay, periodontal disease, and oral cancer. The only positive way to impact this devastating outcome is with yearly physical examination of the oral cavity, head, and neck including a salivary test to better assess your risk. The analysis may just save your life.
For more information on how to become an OralDNA Provider – scan HERE: 
In addition, Dr. Brand is also a Naturopathic Physician (ND), board certified by the American College of Integrative Medicine and Dentistry (ACIMD).
Dr. Brand is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), a Fellow of the Institute for Natural Dentistry (FIND), and a Certified Nutritional Consultant (CNC). She has advanced training in all aspects of general and holistic dentistry, as well as training in hypnosis for anxiety and pain control. A relaxed and comfortable visit with her is assured.
Dr. Brand is also a Reiki Master Teacher, a practitioner of NLP, Sound Therapy, Reconnective Energy and EFT. Her knowledge in the Energy Medicine field is extensive. Each of these modalities are frequently used for furthering her patients' health. Her pursuit for whole body wellness is her approach to dental care. She is the mother of two adult children who continue to inspire her to be holistically minded.
Dr. Brand is co-author (with her daughter) of Enlightened Indigo Child, an important book for people with high sensitivities. She has also authored My Secrets to Regaining Health, a concise handbook that delves into the possible reasons for unresolved health issues and how to resolve them.
Dr. Brand has been selected as a Top Dentist by the International Association of Dentists (IAD) and has been spotlighted in the renowned publication The Leading Physicians of the World.
- Salivary Diagnostics for Gum Disease and Oral Cancer Risk Assessment - April 10, 2020