Is a DNA swab test the best option for you?

Many people who consider performing a paternity test often ask the question. Which sample collection option is best for me? There is no definitive answer to this question because the decision essentially would be up to one’s own preference. There are some people who believe blood is more accurate because using blood specimens was the first method used to perform a DNA test. On the other side of the coin, you have people who do not like needles and therefore prefer to use the buccal swab option.

Which option is more accurate? Both options have similar accuracy in terms of allowing a lab the opportunity to perform a high-quality result. At the end of the day, deciding on which option is best will be determined by your preference.

How does a swab DNA test work?

The process is simple. A buccal swab is used to collect a person’s DNA sample by placing the buccal swab inside of the mouth and brushing the swab against the person’s cheek. This procedure is performed on both sides of the cheek.

Once all parties that are involved with the DNA test have their samples collected. The samples are mailed to the laboratory to be processed and analyzed. Upon the completion of your DNA test. The client will be notified and given a status update. IDTO will mail out a copy of your result to your home.

DNA swab test results, How long will it take?

The turnaround time for results is 2-3 business days. 1-day results are available for an additional cost. Contact IDTO today at 877-680-5800 to coordinate an appointment.

Cheek swab DNA testing accuracy

This is question gets asked a lot and as stated earlier in this post. Buccal swab tests have similar accuracy as blood DNA tests. Which makes the buccal swab testing option the preferred method to collect DNA samples by most people. Remember, both swabs and blood DNA testing collection methods use epithelial cells in which DNA laboratories use to perform the DNA test. Which makes the DNA swab testing method an accurate option producing a result of 99.99% and higher.

How long does DNA last on a swab?

A collection swab with DNA on it, properly stored, dry, and away from sunlight is suitable for DNA profiling for many years, probably decades.  Water damage is the worst, then humidity then exposure to sunlight – these are all bad and will degrade the sample.  A wet swab stored in an airtight container – total loss of DNA in a day or so – A dried and, in a dry environment a collection swab with DNA can last 20 years.

An unused, sealed swab will be stable and usable for probably decades – as long as the paper or wrapping is intact.  Humidity, water, sunlight all will degrade the paper and eventually expose the swab and it will lose sterility.  The swab will still be able to pick up DNA but, not the best for use.,

Saliva or cheek swab genetic testing

Normally when performing a paternity test or another type of DNA relationship test. The cheek swab method is performed. A saliva DNA test can be used for a relationship test but for situations when one party is unavailable to have their sample collected by a DNA sample collector. This will fall under what is known as a forensic DNA test. It is important to note, The saliva method is more prominently used for ancestry testing services.