DNA Testing Offered by Dentists
Recently in my local newspaper, the March 2006 edition of the Sandy Journal, I found an article titled, "DNA testing now being offered by Sandy dentist." I thought the article was interesting and that I should post it.
With the popularity of such TV shows as CSI, most of us are very aware how important accurate DNA testing is. But most of us think of it being done in crime labs, not in our local neighborhood. Now a Sandy dentist is offering that service to anyone who would like it.
Dr. Richard Hughes at Alta View Dental is now offering DNA preservation and testing to the community as a public service by way of a dental DNA kit provided by Sorenson Genomics. Working in conjunction with DNASecure, the service offers peace of mind that is more accurate than fingerprinting.
"We heard that this lab was approaching dentists with this idea and we thought it would be a great idea," said Tami Rouska, Hughes' receptionist.
For $10, which is the cost of the kit, a family can get started in the DNA identification process. "We give them the kit and they decide how extensive they want to go with it," said Rouska.
The DNA is collected by doing a painless cheek swab. "We collect the DNA and put it in a packet," and Maria Nelson certified dental hygienist for Hughes. Once the swab is done, it is up to the individual to decide what to do next. They can simply store it themselves or send it in to SG for further processing. SG if fully accredited and certified by ISO 17025 and the American Association of Blood Banks.
If they opt to simply hold on to the sample, it will last for up to seven years if stored properly (instructions are included).
If they want it processed, they have a couple of options. For a fee, the laboratory will extract the DNA and store it on a DNASecure card, which is specially designed to preserve the actual DNA obtained from the cheek.
To go a step further, a profile can also be done (this option costs more and includes the DNASecure cards). "The laboratory will analyze the DNA with a 12-16 assay and report a genetic profile that is unique to the individual," said Wolfe.
"With preserved DNA, a family can explore personal ancestry, confirm family relations and provide proof-positive identity (in the case of disaster or missing person), " said Doug Fogg, SG chief operating officer.
"The genetic profile cannot be used to identify physical or health characteristics (predisposition to a genetic disease) but can be used to identify a person," said Cindy Wolfe, registered dental hygienist for Sorenson Genomics.
by Theresa A. Husarik