Oral Pathogen Test
Oral pathogens are harmful bacteria that live in your mouth, especially under the gums. Some are mild early colonisers, but others are invasive and can spread through your bloodstream, airways, and even to your brain or heart. It’s quite remarkable how much impact these tiny oral organisms can have on your overall health.
What Are the Top 11 Oral Pathogens?
The 11 main bacteria responsible for gum disease include:
- Aa. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
- Pg. Porphyromonas gingivalis
- Tf. Tannerella forsythia
- Td. Treponema denticola
- Pi. Prevotella intermedia
- Pm. Parvimonas micra
- Fn. Fusobacterium nucleatum
- En. Eubacterium nodatum
- Cr. Campylobacter rectus
- Ec. Eikenella corrodens
- Cs. Capnocytophaga species
Some of these bacteria have been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and pregnancy complications.
What Is an Oral Pathogen Test?
It’s a simple, non-invasive diagnostic test that detects which harmful bacteria are present in your mouth. At Leeming Dental, we use this test to pinpoint your specific risk factors and tailor your gum treatment accordingly.
How Do I Take the Oral Pathogen Test?
It’s quick and easy. You’ll simply swish and gargle a solution for 30 seconds, then spit it into a collection tube.
In some cases, we may also use a gentle dental scraper to collect plaque samples from around your teeth or gums, which is where harmful bacteria often hide.
All samples are then analysed right here at our on-site oral pathogen laboratory at Leeming Dental for fast and accurate results.
What Happens After the Test?
Your lab results will reveal which oral bacteria are present and whether any are associated with gum disease or systemic health risks.
Based on these findings, our dentist will create a personalised treatment plan, which may include targeted antibiotic therapy, active periodontal care, or follow-up monitoring to help restore a healthy oral environment.
Why Choose Leeming Dental for Oral Pathogen Testing?
Because everything is done under one roof — from diagnosis to treatment. Our clinic features:
- ✔ On-site oral pathogen laboratory for fast, accurate results
- ✔ Advanced video microscopy during your exam
- ✔ Targeted periodontal therapies based on your results
- ✔ Personalised care to protect both your gums and general health
How Are Oral Pathogens Treated?
Treatment depends on the type of bacteria detected and how advanced your gum infection is. Your dentist may recommend:
- Airflow® Prophylaxis Master cleaning – a gentle yet effective treatment that removes biofilm and early-stage bacteria above and below the gumline.
- Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) – to clear out bacterial deposits and tartar beneath the gums.
- Targeted antibacterial therapy – such as an oral rinse or medicated gel placed below the gumline to eliminate harmful pathogens.
- Ongoing monitoring – through regular checkups and follow-up tests to ensure bacteria levels remain under control.
What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?
Be alert for these common warning signs:
- ✔ Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- ✔ Red, swollen, or receding gums
- ✔ Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- ✔ Teeth that feel loose or a change in your bite
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to book an Oral Pathogen Test so we can identify harmful bacteria early and treat the problem before it worsens.
How Is This Test Beneficial to My Health?
Identifying oral pathogens early helps prevent more than just gum disease. It also reduces the risk of serious health issues linked to these bacteria, including heart disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and pregnancy complications.
By treating harmful bacteria at the source, you protect not only your gums and teeth but also your overall health and wellbeing.
How Is Oral Health Connected to General Health?
Your mouth is the gateway to your body. When harmful bacteria from gum disease enter the bloodstream, they can travel to other organs and contribute to inflammation or infection.
Research shows that untreated gum disease can:
- Increase the risk of heart disease and stroke
- Complicate blood sugar control in diabetes
- Contribute to respiratory and pregnancy complications
- Be associated with Alzheimer’s and rheumatoid arthritis
Keeping your gums healthy through regular checkups and pathogen testing helps lower these risks and supports your long-term health.
How Much Does the Oral Pathogen Test Cost?
Routine Check-up & Cleaning — from $304
Includes comprehensive examination, professional clean, polish, fluoride treatment, required X-rays, and Oral Pathogen Testing.
New Patient Package — from $460
Includes comprehensive consultation, professional clean, full diagnostic X-rays, and Oral Pathogen Testing.
After your visit, we’ll explain your results clearly and discuss any recommended treatment options.
Can My Private Health Fund Help Cover the Cost?
Yes. Most private health funds provide benefits for check-ups, cleans, X-rays, and periodontal treatments under general dental cover.
Because the Oral Pathogen Test is included as part of your check-up and cleaning appointment, it is typically processed within your general dental benefits.
Our friendly team can check your rebate on the spot and process claims instantly through HICAPS.
Book an Oral Pathogen Test
If you’re experiencing gum problems or want to understand your oral health risks, an Oral Pathogen Test can help detect harmful bacteria early and guide personalised treatment.