Gain an insight into your oral health by analysing the bacteria in your mouth with our Oral Microbiome test
An oral microbiome test using our latest shotgun sequencing technique uses advanced DNA analysis to comprehensively map all bacteria present in your mouth. Your oral cavity naturally contains hundreds of bacterial species that form a complex ecosystem affecting oral health, gum disease risk, tooth decay susceptibility, and even systemic health. When this balance is disrupted (dysbiosis), harmful bacteria proliferate, increasing risk of gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth decay, and oral infections.
Unlike traditional methods that only identify easily culturable bacteria, shotgun sequencing analyses the entire genetic makeup of your oral flora. This technique randomly fragments all DNA in your saliva or plaque sample, then sequences each fragment to identify every microorganism present—including beneficial bacteria, pathogenic species, and unculturable organisms. This provides a complete picture of your oral microbiome composition, bacterial diversity, and whether harmful bacteria are overgrown.
The results identify your specific oral microbiome profile: which bacteria dominate your mouth, whether beneficial bacteria like Streptococcus sanguinis are adequate, whether periodontitis-associated bacteria are overabundant, and what dysbiosis patterns are present. This information reveals your risk for gum disease, cavities, and oral infections.
What is shotgun sequencing?
Shotgun sequencing is more accurate than older methods because it detects all bacteria present—even those that are difficult to culture. This enables early detection of dysbiosis patterns before symptoms develop, allowing preventative intervention. Our home testing kits use this advanced technique: you collect a saliva sample at home, mail it to our laboratory, and receive detailed results identifying your oral microbiome profile with personalized recommendations for oral health optimization and disease prevention.
How do I take my sample?
You will need to send back a saliva sample using the pre-paid return mailing bag provided within your test kit.