Author: savannadental

New research has explored the possibility of text messages being used as a method of improving toothbrushing frequency among teenagers. The research also looked to see if text messages can help to reduce tooth decay. Getting into good oral hygiene habits at a young age is important.

Many parents are all too familiar with the idea that getting the attention of their teenage son or daughter is far from easy – especially when they have a smartphone in their hand.

Some may have resorted to messaging their son or daughter on their phone to remind them of something. Now, new research has shown that such an approach may actually benefit the toothbrushing habits of teenagers [1].

The research suggests that teenagers are receptive to text message reminders about toothbrushing. This could benefit their oral health and overall wellbeing.

Background

This research involved looking at the oral health habits of teenagers. As discussed, smartphone use is rife among this age group. In fact, research shows that teenagers spend an average of 8 and a half hours on screens per day – a staggering amount [2].

Looking after oral health in teenage years is important. By having a strong oral hygiene routine, it can set habits that teenagers can hopefully take forward for the rest of their life.

However, tooth decay is a very common problem in teenagers. Research shows that tooth decay affects around a third of those aged between 12 and 15 [3].

The researchers also wanted to place some focus on youngsters living in areas of poverty. Tooth decay affects almost 50% of youngsters in areas of poverty [3].

Tooth decay can cause a range of problems. For example, these include toothache, eating problems, an infection, poor sleep, and reduced school attendance and performance.

The Research

The research was carried out by a team from the University of Sheffield in England. Moreover, they collaborated with other institutions across the United Kingdom. Subsequently, their findings were published in the Health Technology Assessment journal [1].

The study involved the creation of the BRIGHT trial, which involved 4,680 students aged 11 to 13 across 42 schools in England, Scotland and Wales [1].

For the purposes of the study, the students were split into two groups. One group would receive a 50-minute lesson delivered in a classroom by teachers, and two text messages per day to their mobile phone to remind them about toothbrushing [1].

The second group didn’t receive any of the above, other than routine education [1]. The researchers wanted to see what impact these text messages would have.

All 4,680 participants had their teeth examined at the start of the study. The text messages continued over a two-and-a-half-year period [1].

At the end of the period, the participants had their teeth re-examined. The researchers were looking to see if there was an increase or decrease in tooth decay.

The researchers then compared the groups to see if the group that had received the text messages had seen more of an improvement in their oral health than those that didn’t receive the texts [1].

The Results

The research produced mixed results. Overall, the impact on cavity prevention was minimal, with the two groups showing very little difference. Therefore, this means that the text messages didn’t particularly contribute towards lessening the need for restorative work like fillings [1].

However, there were some positives. The results showed that the text messages were particularly effective for students coming from low-income families. Their analysis found some evidence of tooth decay prevention among this group [1]. So this meant that those from low-income families were helped by the text messages.

Furthermore, the researchers also asked the participants to self-report on the frequency that they brushed their teeth. Promisingly, self-reported brushing habits improved after six months [1].

Therefore, this is another benefit to emanate from the text messages. With more people brushing their teeth, this should help their oral health in the long-term.

Summary

In conclusion, while the text messages may not have had the impact that the researchers hoped, there were certainly modest improvements.

The most positive element of the research was the excellent impact it had on teenagers from areas with high rates of poverty. This is very positive, as those from a poverty-stricken background are more vulnerable to oral health problems.

Professor Zoe Marshman of the University of Sheffield’s School of Clinical Dentistry has commented on the findings. She has mentioned that secondary school represents “a critical stage for toothbrushing practices to become an established behaviour for adulthood” [3].

Continuing, Marshman says that “it is vital to help young people to improve their understanding of the importance of toothbrushing and skills to prevent tooth decay” [3]. Therefore, this underlines how crucial toothbrushing is for this age group.

In terms of the next steps, the research team are hoping to use these findings to investigate what other measures can be put in place to help teenagers with their oral health.

The aim is that in the long term, we will see an improvement in the oral health of teenagers around the world. Text messages appear to offer a promising option in this regard.

Thinking points…

1) Having a strong oral health routine is crucial not only during teenage years, but also in adulthood! Remember to look after your teeth and brush frequently. Another important thing to do is to attend regular dental check-ups, as these allow a dentist to examine your oral health and notice any problems. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

2) Do you have a teenage son or daughter? If so, this research is very relevant! As seen above, having text reminders can be helpful to increase toothbrushing frequency. With this in mind, you could arrange for your children to get reminders on their phone to brush their teeth. Why not look into this possibility right away?!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Marshman, Z., Ainsworth, H., & Fairhurst, C., et al. (2024). Behaviour change intervention (education and text) to prevent dental caries in secondary school pupils: BRIGHT RCT, process and economic evaluation. Health Technology Assessment. 28 (52). DOI: https://doi.org/10.3310/JQTA2103.

[2] Rosenberg, D., & Szura, N. (2023). Teens are spending the equivalent of a 40-hour work week on their devices. Here’s how to help them find the right balance. Available: https://fortune.com/well/2023/10/24/teens-too-much-screen-time-find-balance/. Last accessed: 23rd October 2024.

[3] University of Sheffield. (2024). Text message reminders can help improve oral health in teenagers. Available: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/news/text-message-reminders-can-help-improve-oral-health-teenagers. Last accessed: 23rd October 2024.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is known for protecting our teeth and boosting our oral health. Fluoride is important for both adults and children. This is supported by various studies and research articles. Many parents often wonder about fluoride, and have questions about its use.

Fluoride is important for both adults and children alike, with this natural mineral aiding our oral health significantly.

Fluoride is best-known for being found in toothpaste and mouth rinses. However, it can also be found in drinking water, food and beverages.

While there are some concerns about exposing children to fluoride, it is healthy, and children need it. Parents often have many questions about fluoride for their children, with any information being useful!

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral. It is known for being capable of stopping or slowing the process of tooth decay and the development of cavities.

When sugars from food and drink combine with the bacteria in our mouth, acid is formed. Acid erodes the teeth, causing cavities. However, fluoride is able to protect our teeth, and aids in the process of rebuilding our enamel.

Fluoride and water fluoridation: is it safe?

As mentioned, fluoride is naturally occurring. It is found in all bodies of water on planet Earth. Moreover, this means that sometimes fluoride is found in drinking water.

In some cases, governments or policy makers have decided to add small concentrations of fluoride to the public water supply. Therefore, this has the intention of getting the public to drink water that has fluoride in it.

Around 35% of the world’s population lives in areas with fluoridated water [1]. Countries that have water fluoridation programs include the United States, Australia and Canada.

Research has shown that water fluoridation has a positive impact on children. This includes studies which have demonstrated that children who live in areas with fluoridated water typically have less cavities than children from areas without fluoridated water [2].

Furthermore, statistics show that after the United States began water fluoridation at the end of the Second World War, rates of tooth decay sharply decreased [3]. This trend has continued since then.

Despite this, there has been some controversy over water fluoridation. Some have argued that it has a detrimental effect on the development of children, and causes fluorosis – a condition that involves over-consumption of fluoride in children.

However, past research has shown though that water fluoridation does not impact brain development in children [4]. Moreover, fluorosis is very rare.

Scientists and organizations like the American Dental Association are in agreement that water fluoridation is a positive thing, and has helped society substantially.

When should a child start using fluoride toothpaste?

So with fluoride being deemed important and safe for children, it is natural to wonder when a child should start using a fluoridated toothpaste.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend using a grain of rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste twice a day from when the first tooth appears – up until the age of 3 [3].

After turning 3, the AAP recommend using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste twice a day [3]. Non-fluoride toothpaste should be avoided.

Teaching a child to spit out toothpaste is useful, as swallowing isn’t advisable. It is recommended that parents supervise their child’s toothbrushing until they become entirely competent alone.

Pregnancy and fluoride

A common concern that many people have is the possible impact that fluoride can have on an unborn child.

If you are pregnant and worried about the impact of fluoride on your unborn child, you can be assured that the public water supply is checked regularly to ensure its safety and cleanliness.

You can always contact your local water utility company for any queries or concerns about your water supply and fluoride levels.

Some people decide to drink bottled water instead. However, given the benefits of fluoride, it is advisable to consume water from the tap. As seen, drinking water from the tap is helpful for both adults and children – including the unborn!

Thinking points…

1) Some people have access to fluoridated water, while others don’t. Regardless of if you do or don’t, you still need to remember to have excellent oral hygiene. While water fluoridation can help, it cannot replace toothbrushing and flossing. Moreover, remember to attend regular dental check-ups, as these allow a dentist to examine your mouth, offer advice and suggest treatment if necessary. We recommend that you book an appointment soon!

2) Are you a parent? If yes, remember that there are many things you can do to help your children with their oral health. For example, showing an interest in their dental hygiene, helping them brush their teeth, and taking them to regular dental appointments can all help! You could even attend a dental appointment alongside your child! You could book an appointment for you both now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Iheozor-Ejiofor, Z., Worthington, H. V., Walsh T., O’Malley, L., Clarkson, J. E., Macey, R., Alam, R., Tugwell, P., Welch, V., & Glenny, A-M. (2015). Water fluoridation for the prevention of dental caries. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 18 (6): CD010856. DOI: https:/www.doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD010856.pub2.

[2] Slade, G. D., Grider, W. B., Maas, W. R., & Sanders, A. E. (2018). Water Fluoridation and Dental Caries in U.S. Children and Adolescents. Journal of Dental Research. 97 (10). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0022034518774331.

[3] Lewis, C. (2024). Pediatrician explains why children need fluoride. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-09-pediatrician-children-fluoride.html. Last accessed: 4th October 2024.

[4] Do, L. G., Spender, A. J., Sawyer, A., Jones, A., Leary, S., Roberts, R., & Ha, D. H. (2022). Early Childhood Exposures to Fluorides and Child Behavioral Development and Executive Function: A Population-Based Longitudinal Study. Journal of Dental Research. 102 (1). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/00220345221119431.

Researchers have looked to see if dentists could be the first line of defence against the sleep disorder Sleep Apnea. Sleep apnea is a condition that affects many people, and can be life threatening in certain cases. The researchers have suggested that dentists have a unique opportunity to spot the signs of sleep disorders, and provide referrals when needed.

We all know that going to the dentist is crucial for our oral health. Dentists can check our oral health, provide advice, and discuss treatment options if necessary.

However, visiting the dentist is much more than just seeing how your oral health is. Instead, dentists are able to spot signs of physical health problems. They are highly-skilled practitioners who can also help with your overall health.

In fact, recent research has explored the possibility of dentists being considered as the first line of defense against the sleep disorder Sleep Apnea [1].

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a type of sleep disorder. It involves a person’s breathing stopping and starting intermittently while they sleep [2]. In extreme cases, it can be life threatening.

Other symptoms include snoring loudly, and waking up frequently during the night. Therefore, sleep apnea contributes to a range of problems. For example, those with the condition frequently feel tired during the daytime.

Moreover, sleep apnea has been linked with conditions such as high blood pressure, stroke, and coronary artery disease [3]. Due to these concerns, it is important to get seek treatment for sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is also related to our oral health. Research shows that patients with sleep apnea are likelier to have oral health problems than those without the condition [4].

The Research

A team of researchers from Rutgers Health sought to find out the role that dentists could play in spotting the signs of sleep apnea. Their findings have been published in the Journal of the American Dental Association [1].

The team conducted a literature review on sleep-focused dental medicine studies between January 1990 and March 2024. Furthermore, the team prioritized studies on neuroscience [1].

The review found that dentists can spot the early signs of sleep disorders during dental check-ups. These signs often manifest as oral health issues, which are visible in check-ups.

For example, tooth grinding, enlarged jaw muscles, tongue scalloping or patients sleeping during routine dental check-ups are all potential signs of sleep disorders [1].

Furthermore, the review found that dentists can identify at-risk patients with 80% accuracy using tools like the STOP-BANG questionnaire, along with looking for behavioural signs [1].

The STOP-BANG questionnaire is a tool used to diagnose sleep apnea. It is commonly used by healthcare professionals, and tests for various symptoms of the condition [1].

As discussed, the researchers found that this questionnaire has up to 80% accuracy. In cases where a dentist has enough time, the researchers have suggested that this questionnaire could be used when signs of sleep apnea are exhibited [1].

Alternatively, the researchers posited that adding sleep-based questions into patient history forms could help, as they would be able to provide initial information on potential sleep problems [1].

The researchers suggested that when a dentist does spot signs of sleep apnea, that a prompt referral to a relevant health professional should take place.

As a result, treatment will be able to commence. Moreover, it will also help to protect patients from complications from sleep disorders – such as heart disease and stroke [1].

Summary

These are interesting findings – and underline the importance of visiting a dentist regularly. Moreover, it is further proof that dentists offer more than just oral health services.

Dave Thomas is a clinical associate professor at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. He commented by saying “dentists can be the first line of defence in identifying sleep disorders” [5].

Continuing, Thomas said that this is in part because “they often see symptoms long before physicians” [5]. Therefore, dentists are in a position to be able to assist at an early stage.

Just like with dental conditions, the earlier that sleep apnea is detected and treated – the higher the chance of a positive treatment outcome.

It is very important that patients understand the importance of attending a dental clinic regularly. Not only can their oral health be boosted, but their physical health will also be taken into account.

Thinking points…

1) This research further underlines the importance of visiting the dentist! As shown above, it boosts your oral health and your overall health too! Therefore, make sure you attend the dentist for a check-up at least once every six months. At a check-up, a dentist will be able to take a look at your oral health and provide advice and treatment if needed. We recommend that you book an appointment right away!

2) Do you, or someone you know, have trouble sleeping? Many people are unaware that they have a sleep disorder. You could share this article with anyone you know that struggles to sleep, or on your social media accounts. This could help them to realise that they might have a problem, and serves as a reminder to them about the importance of the dentist. Why not share the article now?

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Thomas, D. C., Somaiya, T., Cruz, M. M. E., Pitchumani, P. K., Ardeshna, A., Ravi, A., & Prabhakar, S. (2024). The enigma of sleep: Implications of sleep neuroscience for the dental clinician and patient. The Journal of the American Dental Association. 155 (9): p735-746. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adaj.2024.05.007.

[2] NHS. (2022). Sleep apnoea. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sleep-apnoea/. Last accessed: 19th September 2024.

[3] Girardin, J-L., Zizi, F., Clark, L. T., Brown, C. D., & McFarlane, S. I. (2008). Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Cardiovascular Disease: Role of the Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. 4 (3): p261-272. PMID: 18595441.

[4] Daljeet, M., Warunek, S., Covell, D. A., Monegro, A., Giangreco, T., & Al-Jewair, T. (2022). Association between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and bone mineral density in adult orthodontic populations. The Journal of Craniomandibular & Sleep Practice. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/08869634.2022.2142724.

[5] Oral Health. (2024). Could dentists be the first line of defence against sleep apnea? A review says yes. Available: https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/oral-health/could-dentists-be-the-first-line-of-defence-against-sleep-apnea-a-review-says-yes-1003981226/. Last accessed: 19th September 2024.