Salivary diagnostics for periodontal diseases

ABSTRACTBackground and OverviewThe use of salivary diagnostics continues to develop and advance the field of risk determination for periodontal diseases. Researchers are investigating genetic, microbial and protein biomarkers with the objective of translating findings to such aspects of clinical care as broad patient screening, monitoring and treatment planning.MethodsIn this review, the author briefly explores currently available salivary diagnostics used to identify bacteria prevalent in periodontal disease, and focuses on the future development and use of a variety of rapid disease detection platforms, such as lab-on-a-chip, as a point-of-care device for identification of patients' risk.Conclusions and Clinical ImplicationsSeveral diagnostic tests are commercially available, and point-of-care tests are under development. However, challenges remain regarding the introduction of these technologies to clinical practice and adoption by dental practitioners for promotion of personalized oral health care.The author explores currently available salivary diagnostics for periodontal disease and focuses on future developments in the field.