BioComp Labs Biocompatibility Testing
Dental materials testing — also called biocompatibility or material reactivity testing — helps us identify the dental materials that are most, and least, compatible with your body before you begin treatment. At Groton Wellness we use BioComp Laboratories serum testing for this.
From a simple blood serum sample, BioComp assays your immune reactivity to the components of more than 11,000 dental materials across 21 categories — including cements, composites, crowns, bridges, dentures, bonding materials, and implants. Your results sort every material into one of three tiers: Least Reactive, Moderately Reactive, or Highly Reactive. This gives our dentists a clear, personalized guide for selecting the safest materials for your care. There is no "non-reactive" category, because the immune system reacts at least slightly to anything it recognizes as foreign — the goal is to choose the least reactive options for you.
Material compatibility testing is especially valuable for patients with multiple allergies or chemical sensitivities, those replacing existing restorations or undergoing dental revision, and anyone considering a future dental implant. For more information, visit biocomplabs.com or contact Groton Wellness and we'll help you get started.
How to prepare for your dental materials test
- Get your test kit. We can provide a BioComp kit at your visit, or one can be ordered directly from BioComp Labs and shipped to you. You only need one kit.
- Fast for at least 10 hours before your blood draw. Do not eat for a minimum of 10 hours beforehand, and avoid proteins and fatty foods leading up to your appointment. You may drink water and take your vitamins, minerals, supplements, and any standard medications as usual.
- Have your blood serum sample drawn. Take the kit to a local clinical laboratory or blood-draw location for a simple blood serum collection. The lab prepares the specimen using the materials in your kit.
- Send the sample to BioComp. The completed specimen is mailed to BioComp Laboratories in the prepaid packaging included with your kit.
- Receive your results. BioComp completes testing and sends your report directly to Groton Wellness — typically within about 10 business days, with a 5-business-day rush option available. We then review your compatible materials with you before treatment.
Please schedule your testing well ahead of any planned dental work so your results are back in time to guide material selection.
Dental Materials Testing: Frequently Asked Questions
What is dental materials biocompatibility testing?
It is a blood serum test that measures how your immune system reacts to the components of thousands of dental materials. The results help your dentist choose the materials least likely to cause a reaction in your body, sorted into Least, Moderately, and Highly Reactive tiers.
Who should consider materials testing?
We recommend it for patients with multiple allergies or chemical sensitivities, anyone replacing older restorations or undergoing dental revision, and patients considering a dental implant. If you've had a reaction to past dental work, testing can help guide safer choices going forward.
How do I take the test?
You receive a BioComp test kit from our office or directly from the lab, take it to a local laboratory for a blood serum draw, and the sample is mailed to BioComp. Your results are sent to Groton Wellness, usually within about 10 business days.
Does the blood draw require fasting?
Yes. Please fast for at least 10 hours before your blood draw and avoid proteins and fatty foods beforehand. You may still drink water and take your vitamins, minerals, supplements, and any standard medications as usual.
How do I schedule dental materials testing in Groton, MA?
Call Groton Wellness at 978-449-9919 or request an appointment online, and we'll help you get your kit and plan your testing ahead of treatment.
