The GI Effects comprehensive stool test looks at digestive function, the gut microbiome and bacteria, yeasts, parasites and worms so that any imbalances can be corrected.
Bacterial imbalances which start in the mouth don’t just stay in the mouth!
Our mouths have their own complex ecosystems made up of various habitats including the teeth, gums, tongue and tonsils, all of which are inhabited by bacteria — alongside fungi and other microorganisms. Research suggests there are approximately 600 microbial species within the oral cavity, with composition varying across individuals and over time.
The majority of oral microbes exist within a complex multi-species structure known as the oral biofilm, more commonly referred to as dental plaque. With regular and effective oral hygiene, this microbial community can remain relatively stable and well balanced.
The development of oral biofilms begins with the adherence of early (pioneer) species to salivary proteins on the tooth surface. In healthy individuals, the oral biofilm is dominated by beneficial and commensal bacteria that help maintain balance (homeostasis) through carefully regulated interactions with the immune system and other microbes.
However, factors such as infection, injury, dietary changes, smoking, stress, medications, or poor oral hygiene can disrupt this balance. When this occurs, a state known as oral dysbiosis may develop, allowing potentially harmful bacteria to increase. Over time, this imbalance can contribute to oral conditions such as dental caries and gum disease, and has also been linked to wider systemic health concerns.
At Smart Nutrition we pride ourselves in offering the best cost possible for the oral microbiome Test.
Research has shown associations between oral dysbiosis — including conditions such as periodontitis and dental caries — and a range of systemic and inflammatory health conditions, including:
The Oral Microbiome Test provides a comprehensive analysis of the microorganisms living in the mouth, including bacteria, archaea and fungi, all of which play important roles in oral and overall health.
Using advanced shotgun metagenomic sequencing, the test analyses a simple saliva sample and can identify hundreds of microbial species present within the oral cavity. Rather than testing for a limited or predefined panel, this approach assesses the entire oral microbial ecosystem, with results reporting only the microbes that are actually detected in your sample.
The report focuses on:
Clinically relevant pathogenic species associated with dental plaque, tooth decay, gum disease and inflammation
Opportunistic microbes that may contribute to oral or systemic health concerns when present at higher levels
The balance between beneficial (commensal) and potentially harmful (pathogenic) organisms
Unlike gut or vaginal microbiome testing, where microbial diversity is often associated with good health, oral health is more strongly influenced by microbial balance and functional activity. For this reason, diversity scores are not included.
In addition to identifying microbes, the test also evaluates key functional capabilities of the oral microbiome — such as sugar degradation and acid production — which are directly relevant to cavity risk, enamel damage and plaque formation.
Examples of clinically relevant microbes assessed and reported (when detected) include:
The oral microbiome test requires a saliva sample.
Before doing the oral microbiome test it is not recommended that you change any prescribed or regular medications or supplements without seeking advice from a suitably qualified medical professional.
Some medications or supplements are known to have an impact on the test results. If agreed with your healthcare professional, please follow the guidelines below.
14 days prior to collecting your oral microbiome saliva sample:
24 hours prior to collecting your oral microbiome saliva sample:
Day of collection:
Note:
The oral microbiome sample is very stable once it has been collected, please follow the instructions included in your kit.
Best practice recommendations to ensure speedy processing are:
It will take 20 working days for you to receive your oral microbiome test results.
We will email you your oral microbiome test results.
This sample report includes the bile acids and SCFA’s add on
All sample reports are for representational and educational purposes only. Biomarkers, references ranges, results, and all other data may differ from actual reports. All data included in no way represents an actual patient. Any comparisons of results to actual patients is completely incidental.
Updated
The GI Effects comprehensive stool test looks at digestive function, the gut microbiome and bacteria, yeasts, parasites and worms so that any imbalances can be corrected.
£355.75
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Please do not return samples to the laboratories that may arrive after Wednesday 27th March and up to and including Monday 2nd April.
The laboratories are closed from the 28th March – 2nd April for the Easter Holiday.