Page 5 - IDX-DecisionTree-Booklet-Digital

Pre-Testing Workflow

& Patient Preparation

Purpose
To standardize microbial sampling and ensure accurate,
reproducible results that reflect each patient’s oral ecosystem. This
workflow applies to all patient populations, from preventive and
wellness clients to those presenting with acute or chronic infection.

When to Test
Microbial testing is valuable for:

• Baseline oral wellness assessment or new-patient intake
• Active inflammation, infection, or abscess requiring
bacterial identification
• Refractory or recurrent conditions not explained by hygiene alone

• Recurrent caries, restorative failure, or suspected ecological
imbalance

• Pre-implant and peri-implant planning or maintenance
• Patients with systemic inflammatory conditions such as diabetes,
cardiovascular disease, pregnancy, or autoimmune disorders

• Monitoring treatment response or recolonization following therapy

Timing and Accuracy

If antibiotics have been recently prescribed,
record the date and medication type. Testing
can still be performed, but results may reflect
temporary suppression or shifts in flora and should
be interpreted in context. Sampling may also
be performed at the time of infection when
diagnostic identification is needed.