Salivary analysis in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer: a role for the general dentist.

Saliva testing is an attractive area of research for the general dentist, as it offers a great opportunity to utilize an easily accessible fluid for the diagnosis of disease. Diseases that may be difficult to detect, such as breast cancer, are an area of particular interest. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women in the U.S. and early detection is critical to patient survival. Frequent and inexpensive testing is the key to early detection. The general dentist is in the perfect position to take salivary samples from patients during routine checkups or procedures and to refer patients depending on the results.