DNA Trichomonas tenax (oral trichomonad) — PCR, qualitative
Detects T. tenax DNA — microorganism associated with gingivitis, periodontitis, and oral cavity inflammatory processes.
Infection routes:
- close saliva contact (e.g., kissing);
- shared dishes, cutlery;
- shared toothbrushes; poor oral hygiene;
- dental procedures with sterilization violations (rare).
Most commonly found in:
- persons with gingivitis and periodontitis;
- significant dental plaque;
- poor oral hygiene.
Method: Real-time PCR — qualitative detection of T. tenax DNA. High sensitivity, high specificity; detects organism even when microscopy is negative. Result is qualitative (detected/not detected).
Recommended for: patients with gum inflammatory diseases; symptoms of gum bleeding, bad breath, gum swelling and pain, chronic treatment-resistant inflammation; ineffective standard dental treatment; need to clarify cause of chronic oral inflammatory process.
Oral cavity swab / gingival pocket scrape / dental plaque / saliva
24 hours before:
- do not use antiseptic mouthwashes;
- do not use local antibacterial agents
2-3 hours before:
- do not eat or drink;
- do not brush teeth;
- do not use chewing gum
Medications: Preferably collect before antibiotics or antiprotozoal drugs; if taking medications — inform physician
- Gum bleeding;
- bad breath;
- periodontal pockets;
- chronic gum inflammation.
Note: Test detects even small microorganism DNA fragments.
Negative — T. tenax DNA not detected.
Positive — T. tenax DNA detected; confirms infection.
Infectious disease parasitologist consultation recommended. Self-treatment not recommended.
