My Father passed away in 2005, however my sister saved a sample of his hair in case we could get a DNA test done later to help us in our family search. I am wondering if the hair can be used after a few years. She also has a cheek swab taken in 2005, but I really dont know how long DNA last before degrading. We are ready now to have his DNA tested, it is sort of an expensive project....Any help is very appreciated.

I'm doing a DNA test for genealogical purposes, and my kit comes with 3 swabs. The instructions explain how to get the sample from the left inside cheek, and then says to do the same thing with the right cheek, and then with the front of the mouth. Does that mean that I swab the top or the bottom of my mouth in the front? Or does it matter?