Advanced diagnostic testing to fight back against gum disease.

Dr. Fred Alger offers advanced gum disease bacteria testing to identify harmful bacteria that cause periodontal disease. These painless, in-office diagnostic tests give Dr. Alger a clear look at the microorganisms living around your gum line, helping him tailor a personalized treatment plan that targets infection at its source.

Bacteriological evaluation is one of the most effective ways to uncover what’s really happening below the surface of your gums, often before symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, or tooth loss appear.

What Is Bacteriologic Evaluation?

Many people have gum disease without realizing it, since early stages rarely cause pain. Gum disease bacteria testing allows Dr. Alger to visually demonstrate the problem using microscopy or DNA testing, giving patients a deeper understanding of their condition.

Within minutes, these chairside tests can reveal the types of bacteria present in your mouth. Some bacteria are harmless, while others, like those linked to periodontitis, bone loss, and even heart disease, require professional periodontal treatment.

If left untreated, these harmful bacteria destroy gum tissue, bone, and connective fibers that hold teeth in place. Identifying and managing these microorganisms early helps protect your long-term oral health and overall wellness.

How Gum Disease Bacteria Testing Works

Dr. Alger uses several safe, non-invasive testing methods to evaluate the presence and severity of bacterial infection. Depending on each patient’s needs, he may recommend:

  • Microscopy: A quick, in-office test using a microscope to view a sample of plaque taken from beneath the gums. Patients can see live bacteria moving on-screen, helping them understand their current gum health.
  • In-office BNA enzyme testing:
    This test measures the enzymes released by bacteria that cause inflammation and tissue damage. It helps determine how active an infection may be.
  • DNA analysis:
    A lab-based method that uses saliva testing or a gum tissue sample to identify specific strains of bacteria linked to periodontitis and gingivitis. It’s highly precise and can guide targeted therapy or antibiotic treatment if needed.
  • Fungal culture testing:
    In some cases, fungal infections in the mouth can mimic gum disease symptoms. Dr. Alger may perform an in-office culture to identify these microorganisms and recommend proper treatment.

Each method offers valuable insight into the levels of bacteria, inflammation, and risk factors that influence the severity of periodontal disease.

What the Results Mean

After testing, Dr. Alger provides clear, easy-to-understand results. You’ll see visual evidence of your current oral bacteria and receive guidance on the next steps for restoring gum health.

Depending on your results, your personalized treatment plan may include:

  • Deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing
  • Use of antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses
  • Laser therapy for targeted bacterial removal
  • Periodontal maintenance to monitor long-term progress

By comparing results before and after treatment, Dr. Alger can confirm whether the infection has been successfully controlled. This measurable data provides peace of mind for patients and ensures that no disease-causing bacteria are left behind.

Why Early Detection Matters

Gum disease is linked to several serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Harmful oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream through inflamed gums, contributing to systemic inflammation throughout the body.

By diagnosing bacterial infections early, gum disease bacteria testing supports both oral health and overall health. It’s a crucial first step toward preventing future bone loss, tooth decay, and gum recession — and toward protecting your total body wellness.

Who Benefits from Gum Disease Bacteria Testing?

This advanced testing is recommended for:

  • Patients showing symptoms of gingivitis or periodontitis (such as bleeding, swelling, or persistent bad breath)
  • Individuals with dental implants, since infections around implants can cause failure if left unchecked
  • Patients with chronic health conditions like diabetes or heart disease
  • Anyone with a history of gum problems, bone loss, or tooth loss
  • Those experiencing dry mouth or taking medications that affect the immune system

Even if you practice good oral hygiene at home, professional testing helps uncover hidden bacteria that brushing and flossing can’t eliminate.

The Connection Between Oral and Overall Health

Scientific research continues to show strong links between oral bacteria and conditions like atherosclerosis, stroke, and low birth weight in infants. Dr. Alger emphasizes prevention and early detection because maintaining healthy gums directly supports your cardiovascular and immune health.

By partnering with your dentist, dental hygienist, and Dr. Alger’s specialized periodontal team, you’ll have a complete approach to long-term wellness.