When most people think of saliva, they simply consider it part of everyday life—a natural fluid that helps us eat, speak, and digest. But what if we told you that your saliva holds a wealth of information about your health—not just your oral health, but your entire body?
At Tex Mabalon Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, we’ve incorporated saliva testing with OralDNA® labs into our practice because we know dentistry today is about more than fixing teeth—it’s about whole-body health. Modern science has uncovered that saliva is a window into systemic conditions, genetic predispositions, and inflammatory responses that affect both your mouth and your body.
Saliva and Systemic Health
Saliva is a diagnostic powerhouse. Researchers have identified that biomarkers and bacterial DNA in saliva can be linked to over 57 different systemic diseases and conditions, including:
The connection between the mouth and body is undeniable. Harmful bacteria and chronic inflammation in the mouth don’t stay isolated—they can travel through the bloodstream and contribute to widespread health issues. This is why gum disease isn’t “just gum disease”—it’s a sign your body may be under attack in ways that go far beyond the smile.
The Role of Inflammation and IL-6
One of the key factors saliva testing can reveal is how your body responds to inflammation at the genetic level.
A specific genetic marker called Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is especially important. IL-6 is a cytokine, or signaling protein, that triggers your immune system to react to infections and injuries. Some people carry variations of the IL-6 gene that cause their bodies to respond to inflammation more aggressively.
While this may sound protective, it can actually become destructive. An overactive inflammatory response means:
In other words, patients with an IL-6 genetic predisposition can see periodontal disease progress more rapidly, making early detection and proactive treatment critical.
Why This Matters for Periodontal Disease and Cavities
Understanding the bacterial makeup of your mouth and your genetic inflammatory response allows us to customize treatment plans in ways we never could before.
How OralDNA® Testing Works
The process is simple, quick, and painless:
Dentistry with the Whole Body in Mind
At Tex Mabalon Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry, we believe dentistry is about more than cleanings and fillings—it’s about protecting your overall health. By using saliva testing, we’re not just treating symptoms; we’re uncovering root causes, anticipating risks, and building strategies to keep you healthier for life.
Your saliva tells a story. Let’s use it to write one where you keep your teeth, your health, and your smile strong for years to come.
