Fear of the dentist is a common issue that many face. One of the main fears revolves around the dental drill, which is used for cavity fillings. However, new research will be looking into the possibility of drill-free fillings in the future. This research is exciting, and could yield improvements in the number of patients willingly getting dental fillings.
Being afraid or anxious of the dentist is a very common issue that many people have. One of the main issues is the dental drill, which is used throughout multiple procedures.
Most people will have at least one cavity filling in their lifetime. For some, they will have multiple, and potentially even a root canal. Throughout all of these, the dental drill is widely-used.
However, upcoming research will be looking into the idea that cavity filling procedures in the future may not need to involve a drill. This could revolutionize dentistry, and lead to a vast decrease in dental fear.
Fear of the dentist
Dental fear is extremely common. A study in the United Kingdom found that 48% of people describe themselves as either moderately or extremely “dentally anxious” [1].
Studies show that those who fear the dentist typically visit less often, only go when pain forces them and generally have worse oral health in their lifetime than those who do not fear the dentist [2].
Aside from pain, many fear the dental drill. The dental drill is used by dentists throughout procedures like cavity fillings and root canals. It causes discomfort for many.
As a result of dental fear, searching for ways to ease the fears of patients is crucial. Now, an effort into coming up with a method of a drill-free filling technique is set to commence.
The upcoming research
Hetal Desai is a PhD student at the University of Toronto. She will be undertaking a research project that is looking at the possibility of repairing cavities without using a drill [3].
Desai has come up with a potential method of doing this. A key part of the research will involve a thin resin (the material used in fillings) that has antimicrobial properties [3].
Many types of resins are already available. For example, composite resins are used in dental fillings. When applied to the surface of a tooth, resin can act as a barrier to prevent further damage to the area [3].
However, resins don’t typically have antimicrobial properties. Therefore, Desai has identified this as a potential area of improvement going forward.
Desai has suggested that drug-loaded nanoparticles could be used to bestow antimicrobial properties into the resin. The nanoparticles would be designed to gradually release over time, helping to maintain the antimicrobial effect [3].
The aim is to stop further decaying of the tooth – as a regular filling would. Therefore, Desai is hoping to simulate the effects of a filling with a specially designed resin.
Hopes for the research
Desai is tackling a big issue. While in theory Desai’s ideas sound realistic, in practice, it may not. But Desai will get backing from mentors at the University of Toronto.
Desai commented on her research [3]. She said that the resin “will penetrate the tooth and form a barrier that will protect the tooth from being demineralized” by acids [3].
Additionally, she went on to say that “the drug from the nanoparticles incorporated within the resin will eliminate the bacteria and protect the tooth from the bacteria and bacterial enzymes” [3].
Desai is hoping that her research will help those who feel anxious about dental appointments. She said that she believes the research would result in “a more positive experience for patients”.
There is certainly hope that this research could produce positive results. Desai hasn’t yet discussed her methodology. However, if the research goes well, then it could be an enormous boost to oral health.
Thinking points…
- 1) Dental fear is an incredibly common issue that many face. But do not feel alarmed, as this is a normal emotion that dentists are trained to deal with. For example, here at Savanna Dental, we always ensure that our patients are well-informed and comfortable throughout their experience. For more information on how we can help, we recommend booking an appointment with us!
- 2) For the foreseeable future, the dental drill will be at the forefront of treatment. But this shouldn’t put anyone off. Remember that dental problems should be treated as soon as possible. By avoiding getting treatment for tooth problems, they will only get worse. It is important to see your dentist at least once every six months. If you haven’t seen your dentist recently, we recommend attending your local clinic soon!
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings and root canals.
We are also pleased to offer some cosmetic services. Here at our Calgary dental clinic, we offer treatments like tooth whitening, Invisalign™ and implants.
It is important for dental problems to be addressed early. Any oral-based problems will be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem getting worse. If and when further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan.
The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.
Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.
We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.
References
- [1] National Health Service. (2009). Adult Dental Health Survey 2009 – First Release. Available: https://files.digital.nhs.uk/publicationimport/pub01xxx/pub01061/adul-dent-heal-surv-firs-rele-2009-rep.pdf. Last accessed: 11th March 2022.
- [2] Armfield, J. M., Stewart, J. F., & Spencer, A. J. (2007). The vicious cycle of dental fear: exploring the interplay between oral health, service utilization and dental fear. BMC Oral Health. 7 (1). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6831-7-1.
- [3] University of Toronto. (2022). Drill-free fillings? Researcher says antimicrobial resin could lead to ‘more positive’ patient experience. Available: https://www.utoronto.ca/news/drill-free-fillings-researcher-says-antimicrobial-resin-could-lead-more-positive-patient. Last accessed: 11th March 2022.
