With periodontal disease affecting more than 40% of American adults and growing evidence linking oral pathogens to systemic conditions—including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and pregnancy complications—dental teams continue to seek tools that provide earlier, clearer microbial insight than traditional clinical exams alone. ImpetusDX has introduced the IDX Oral Health Microbial Testing panel, a DNA-based saliva test designed to identify high-risk periodontal pathogens within 24 hours and integrate seamlessly into routine hygiene visits.
“Our panel is versatile and can be integrated into existing hygiene, periodontal maintenance, or surgical planning,” said Michelle Moore, CEO of Physicians Choice Labs, which powers the ImpetusDX platform. “The sample can be collected chairside during routine cleanings and exams, or as a diagnostic tool when an infection is suspected. Collection is noninvasive and only takes minutes, so it becomes a natural part of patient intake without disrupting the schedule.”
The test employs PCR technology to move beyond visual or probing findings, allowing clinicians to detect specific organisms contributing to active disease—including several emerging pathogens not routinely assessed by comparable panels. Reports are color-coded and semi-quantitative, providing actionable microbial profiles within 24 to 48 hours. Consistent overnight shipping logistics (e.g., Monday collections reported by Tuesday) streamline incorporation into diagnostic and follow-up workflows.
Key elements of the IDX Oral Health Microbial Testing panel for clinical use include:
Comprehensive microbial detection: Identification of high-risk periodontal pathogens and emerging organisms such as Selenomonas noxia, Filifactor alocis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus mutans, offering broader microbial coverage than many standard assays.
Workflow compatibility: Suitable for hygiene visits, periodontal-maintenance schedules, surgical planning, and functional or preventive medicine contexts.
Rapid reporting: 24–48-hour turnaround supported by overnight transport.
Accredited laboratory processing: CAP-accredited, CLIA-certified operations with participation in the American Dental Association.
Streamlined collection-to-report pathway: A six-step process that supports diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring.
Transparent pricing: List price of $189 with optional tiered practice discounts and insurance-eligible collection fees.
“Our panel is positioned to deliver results in under 48 hours, provide a broader oral–systemic view beyond traditional periodontal testing, and include real clinical support for easy integration into routine care,” Moore said. “We’re one of the only companies with representatives who will come onsite to help teams adopt the workflow and support doctors hands-on. Between CE credits, education forums, hygienist incentive programs, and pilot initiatives, we’re focused on building confidence and making the test a natural part of everyday patient care.”
Dental teams using the test report greater clarity in distinguishing inflammatory presentations from active microbial burden, improved patient understanding of oral–systemic connections, and more confident treatment planning. Objective PCR data can help guide therapy and monitor microbial changes over time.
Looking ahead, ImpetusDX aims to expand its involvement in dental education programs, extend availability across additional states, and continue developing CE-accredited resources. As oral-microbiome science progresses, the company anticipates incorporating additional microbial targets or biomarkers to support evidence-based periodontal care.
For more information, visit impetusdx.com.
