Oral Microbiome Testing

Patient smiling in the dental chair while being reassured by a team member at Best Natural Smile

Brushing, flossing, and routine cleanings are the foundation of good oral health, but sometimes they’re not enough to get to the root of a persistent problem. Chronic bad breath, recurring cavities, bleeding gums, and sensitivity can all point to something deeper: an imbalance in your oral microbiome. At Best Natural Smile, we offer oral microbiome testing with Bristle to give you a clearer, more complete picture of what’s driving your oral health concerns.

What Is the Oral Microbiome?

Your mouth is home to billions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that together form your oral microbiome. When this ecosystem is balanced, it supports healthy teeth, gums, and digestion. When harmful bacteria gain the upper hand, the consequences can range from bad breath and tooth decay to gum disease. Research has linked imbalances in the oral microbiome to over 50 systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s.

How the Bristle Test Works

The Bristle Oral Health Test makes it easy to understand your oral microbiome with no discomfort and no guesswork. Here’s what the process looks like:
Coral line-art heart-shaped tooth logo

Step 1 — Collect Your Sample

Using the kit provided, you simply spit into a collection tube. The process takes less than five minutes and can be done at home or at our office.
Coral line-art tooth logo with soft curves

Step 2 — Send It to the Lab

Your sample is mailed back to Bristle’s CLIA-certified laboratory using the prepaid return envelope included in your kit.
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Step 3 — Receive Your Results

Within two to three weeks, you’ll receive a detailed, easy-to-understand oral health report card online, along with a personalized care plan with specific product, diet, and hygiene recommendations tailored to your results.
Dr. Feitelberg and our team are here to walk you through your results and incorporate the findings into your ongoing dental care.

How Oral Microbiome Testing Can Benefit Your Health

The Bristle test goes far beyond what a standard dental exam can reveal. Here’s how it can make a meaningful difference:
 

  • Uncover the root cause of chronic issues like bad breath, inflamed gums, recurring cavities, or tongue coating, rather than just treating symptoms
  • Personalize your care with recommendations that are based on your unique bacterial profile, not generic advice
  • Catch problems early before they progress into more serious dental or systemic conditions
  • Connect your mouth to your overall health, including insights into gut health, heart health, and immune function
  • Track your progress over time by retesting after making changes to your routine
Patient smiling in the dental chair while being reassured by a team member at Best Natural Smile

Take the Guesswork Out of Your Oral Health

If you’ve been dealing with a persistent oral health issue and haven’t found lasting relief, the Bristle test could be the answer. Ask our team about adding oral microbiome testing to your next visit.

In their own words

In their own words

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1260 15th Street, Suite 1117
Santa Monica, CA 90404

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