Test Saliva. Don't Guess.

Saliva testing has become an essential tool in understanding and managing periodontal disease. While not always emphasized in traditional education, we know that “periodontal disease is a host-mediated infectious disease of inflammatory nature in the presence of microbial challenges.” Saliva testing allows clinicians to identify one of the root causes of why patients suffer from periodontal disease, enabling proactive, preventative care to help them maintain long-term oral health.

The connection between saliva testing and overall wellness goes beyond the gums. The bacteria we assess don’t just impact periodontal tissues—they can influence cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurologic health, and may even be associated with certain cancers. By identifying and addressing these bacterial contributors early, clinicians can support their patients’ systemic health while improving oral outcomes.

Takeaways from this session:

• Learn how to interpret bacterial testing and incorporate results into treatment planning

• Understand foundational strategies for bacterial elimination

• Gain tools to effectively communicate results to patients, increasing compliance and engagement

John Bruce, DMD earned his Doctorate of Medicine in Dentistry from Temple University’s Kornberg School of Dentistry in 2018 and received his Specialty Certificate and Masters of Periodontology at the University of North Carolina in 2021, where we served as his program’s Chief Resident. He received his Bachelors degree from University of Maryland, College Park in Physiology & Neurobiology in 2014.

Dr. Bruce has been committed to continued education through his dental training through both local and internationally known organizations. Specifically, he has maintained memberships through the American Academy of Periodontology, International Team for Implantology, Southern Academy of Periodontics, International Society of Periodontal Plastic Surgeons, and Seattle Study Club. Additionally, he has trained directly with Dr. Pat Allen’s Center for Advanced Dental Education and The Dawson Academy.

While in residency, Dr. Bruce has been a part of several different peer reviewed publications. Topics of these publications include Implant dentistry and Guided Bone Regeneration. Dr. Bruce’s Master’s topic was focused on Inflammatory Pathways Related to Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Periodontal Disease.

Aside from dentistry Dr. Bruce has several other interests. He had the unique experience of assisting a nationally ranked University of Maryland Women’s basketball team as a practice player while in undergraduate studies. In his spare time he enjoys spending time with friends and family, boating, tennis, golf, and supporting University of Maryland Basketball, in particular.