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How Many People Around the World Suffer From Mouth Diseases?
28Nov
The World Health Organization has published a landmark report that looks at the scale of oral diseases affecting the world. In concerning findings, almost half of the world’s population suffers from some sort of mouth disease. The findings show that oral diseases are widespread, and that action is needed to tackle them.

The World Health Organization have announced that almost half of the world’s population suffers from some sort of mouth disease, in worrying news.

Mouth diseases can include anything from oral cancer to tooth decay. All conditions have a debilitating effect on those who suffer from them.

This announcement came in a report released by the WHO [1]. It shows that there are many mouth-related problems facing the world – including oral health-based conditions.

WHO Report

The World Health Organization have released the “Global Oral Health Status Report” [1]. This is a report that reviews data on major oral diseases, risk factors, health system challenges and opportunities for reform [1].

In the context of this report, mouth diseases include gum disease, tooth decay, oral cancers and tooth loss among other conditions.

The report took into account all 194 of the world’s countries. The WHO found that 45% of the world’s population – approximately 3.5billion people – have some form of oral illness [1].

The vast majority of these people have some form of dental health issue like tooth decay or gum disease. For example, the WHO said that over 1billion people alone are affected by severe gum disease [1].

But the biggest issue is untreated dental caries, which affects almost 2.5billion people around the world [1]. Therefore, huge swathes of people need urgent dental work done.

Mouth cancer is another common disease. Moreover, the WHO stated that approximately 380,000 new cases of oral cancers are diagnosed every year [1].

Rather shockingly, the report found that global cases of mouth diseases had increased by over 1billion over the last 3 decades [1].

One of the main problems with oral diseases is that often people don’t realize that they have a problem [1]. Then, by the time they do realize they have a problem, treatment is typically more invasive and costly.

These statistics are very worrying, and suggests that oral health is something that needs more attention and treatment. Otherwise, these statistics will only worsen.

Inequities in treatment

The WHO pointed out that three-quarters of those suffering from oral diseases live in low and middle-income countries [1]. This points to severe inequities in treatment.

Furthermore, vulnerable people like the disabled or the elderly were also much more likely to be affected by oral diseases [1].

It is a similar story for those living in rural communities, where accessing dental treatment can be challenging. The WHO said that their findings are “a clear indication that many people do not have access to prevention and treatment of oral diseases” [2].

Then there is also the cost factor, which is a serious problem. Dental fees are typically high, with some people unable to afford them. Therefore, some must live in intense pain, due to not having the money to fund dental operations [1].

Indeed, the WHO have acknowledged that oral diseases can result in “catastrophic costs and significant financial burden for families and communities” [2].

They also noted that the provision of oral health services involves an over-reliance on advanced equipment and materials – something that isn’t available universally [1].

WHO Comments

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is the Head of the WHO. He has said that “many oral diseases can be prevented and treated with cost-effective measures” [2].

Continuing, he said that “oral health has long been neglected in global health” [2]. The statistics in this report certainly support this belief.

The WHO have pointed out that risk factors for oral diseases include a high sugar intake, tobacco use and alcohol abuse [1]. Therefore, it is highly recommended that people change any unhealthy habits they have.

The WHO note that their findings are directed at “policymakers, practitioners, researchers, development agencies and members of the private sector and civil society” [1]. Therefore, they clearly wish for action to be taken to tackle this issue.

Earlier in 2022, the World Health Assembly launched a global strategy on oral health, with the aim of universal health coverage for oral health for all individuals and communities by 2030 [3].

The group are developing a detailed action plan, with the aim of putting this aim into practice [3]. This could result in global improvements in oral health – which is clearly an issue.

These results act as a reminder that oral health is crucial. Oral diseases are largely preventable, with excellent oral hygiene being crucial. Attending dental check-ups and engaging with treatment plans are other actions that can help us all.

Thinking points…

1) Many people require dental treatment without even realizing it. While your mouth, teeth and gums may feel healthy, it is important to still visit a dental clinic twice a year for a check-up. Remember, the earlier that problems are treated, the easier and less costly they are. If left untreated, problems won’t go away, they will worsen. It is therefore crucial to attend check-ups, we recommend booking one now!

2) The report included an estimated prevalence of dental caries in each country. Canada was in the lowest category – which is very positive! This underlines the excellent facilities available across the nation. But we cannot afford to get complacent, and should use the facilities at our disposal. Therefore, remember to attend check-ups regularly, and attend treatment when needed!

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 dental implants.

It is important for oral problems to be addressed early. Any issues can be identified at check-ups. If further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan that is suited to their needs. Early detection helps to prevent the problem getting worse.

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 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] World Health Organization. (2022). Global oral health status report: Towards universal health coverage for oral health by 2030. Available: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240061484. Last accessed: 26th November 2022.

[2] Medical Xpress. (2022). Mouth diseases hit nearly half the world’s people: WHO. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-11-mouth-diseases-world-people.html. Last accessed: 26th November 2022.

[3] World Health Organization. (2022). WHO highlights oral health neglect affecting nearly half of the world’s population. Available: https://www.who.int/news/item/18-11-2022-who-highlights-oral-health-neglect-affecting-nearly-half-of-the-world-s-population. Last accessed: 26th November 2022.

What Is the Long-Term Impact of Water Fluoridation on Children’s Oral Health?
21Nov
Recent research has found that Water Fluoridation has a positive impact on the long-term oral health of children. The research took place over a seven-year period. The results showed that those exposed to water fluoridation typically have stronger oral health than those who are not exposed to it. Therefore, these findings evidence the benefits of water fluoridation.

Recent research has analyzed the long-term impact that water fluoridation has on the oral health of children. The research took place over a seven-year period, and largely produced promising findings.

In positive news, the research team found that exposure to water fluoridation resulted in a “modest” benefit to the dental health of children [1].

What is Water Fluoridation?

Water fluoridation refers to the process of adding a small concentration of Fluoride into the public water supply [2].

Fluoride has been praised for instigating a strong reduction in cavities [3]. Furthermore, it is seen as a crucial ingredient in oral health, and can help keep our teeth strong.

However, water fluoridation is a controversial topic that has caused heated debate. For example, many countries have banned its use. Controversies involve the ethics of water fluoridation, the dangers of over-exposure to fluoride and the issue over a lack of choice.

How did the Research work?

The research was led by the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom. Now, their findings have been published in the Public Health Research journal [1].

This was an important study, as it presented researchers with a chance to complete a first-of-its-kind study, which produced a contemporary review of the effects of the initiation of a water fluoridation scheme in the UK since fluoride toothpaste became widely available in the 1970s [1].

The study assessed the dental health of two cohorts of young children over a six year period. The children were based in two parts of Cumbria – a county in England. In 2013 fluoride was reintroduced to the water supply [1].

One group, consisting of 1,144 participants, were born after 2013 [1]. Therefore, these were five/six years of age by the conclusion of the study.

The other group had been born in 2008 or 2009. There were 1,192 children in this group. Therefore, this cohort were aged 10 or 11 by the conclusion of the study [1].

Adopting such an approach ensured that one group would be exposed purely to fluoridated water. However, the other group would have reached the age of 5 before being introduced to fluoridated water.

This arrangement would ensure that the researchers would be able to compare the oral health of the two groups.

To measure the results, dental teams carried out regular dental examinations on the children [1]. Moreover, pictures were taken. These images were blinded to the fluoridation status of each participant to remove any potential issue of bias.

The Results

The results were interesting. In the cohort that had been exposed to fluoridated water, 17.4% of the children had decayed, filled or missing milk teeth [1].

However, in the cohort that had not benefitted from water fluoridation, 21.4% of the children had decayed, filled or missing milk teeth [1].

Therefore, there was a 4% reduction in teeth problems – with those in areas with water fluoridation having less problems [1].

These results are unsurprising, and are consistent with other findings. For example, in general, since fluoride was first introduced 40 years ago, the number of children affected by tooth decay has fallen dramatically [1].

The impact on the NHS

Dental fees are not free, unlike the majority of healthcare in the United Kingdom. However, free dental care is available for pregnant women and those on a low-income.

But dental pain often results in people seeking help in Accident & Emergency departments, rather than dental clinics. Consequently, this costs the United Kingdom’s NHS a substantial amount [4].

Therefore, another positive finding with this study was that the researchers believed that water fluoridation was a cost-effective way of reducing some of the money spent on dental caries by the NHS – which equates to around £1.7billion per year [5].

Author Comments

The authors of the research commented on the findings. They noted that tooth decay is typically worse in disadvantaged groups and vulnerable populations [5].

With this in mind, Professor Mike Kelly noted that “health inequalities are a feature of all societies, including the UK” [5]. Continuing, he said that “the most disadvantaged communities and the excess number of children having general anesthetics each year still needs to be addressed” [5].

Therefore, Kelly said that there is a “need to continually look at measures which can help prevent the unnecessary burden of pain and suffering” of this group [5].

But the authors were slightly surprised that the amount in difference between the two groups wasn’t higher than 4% [5]. There seemed to be a general expectation that water fluoridation’s impact would be more noticeable.

Summary

This is a positive finding. Water fluoridation does appear to have a strong effect on the oral health of children. Childhood is a crucial time for oral health, as they can get into strong habits that can carry them through life.

These findings may result in more of an uptake of water fluoridation – both around the United Kingdom and further abroad.

Thinking points…

1) It is important as adults to set a good example to children. As part of this, we should ensure that we demonstrate strong oral hygiene in front of them, which includes brushing frequently. This will help children to get into good habits that can help their oral health throughout life. A crucial part of oral health is to visit a dentist for a check-up at least twice a year. We recommend booking one soon!

2) As this research shows, fluoride is very important for oral health. Therefore, at a minimum, remember to use fluoridated toothpaste. As well as this, remember to try and avoid sugar where possible. If you need some advice on your oral health, or have any questions about it, why not have a discussion with your dentist? They will be able to assist you and help where possible.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of treatment options and advice aimed at improving oral health.

It is very important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink can be helpful.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

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

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are 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] Goodwin, M., Emsley, R., Kelly, M. P., Sutton, M., Tickle, M., Walsh, T., Whittaker, W., & Pretty, I. A. (2022). Evaluation of water fluoridation scheme in Cumbria: the CATFISH prospective longitudinal cohort study. Public Health Research. 10 (11). DOI: https://doi.org/10.3310/SHMX1584.

[2] 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.

[3] 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): p1122-1128. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177%2F0022034518774331.

[4] Nsubuga, J. (2017). People who go to A&E with toothaches are ‘costing NHS up to £18m a year’. Available: https://metro.co.uk/2017/01/07/people-who-go-to-ae-with-toothaches-are-costing-nhs-up-to-18m-a-year-6367655/. Last accessed: 18th November 2022.

[5] Addelman, M. (2022). Study sheds new light on benefits of water fluoridation to children. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-11-benefits-fluoridation-children.html. Last accessed: 18th November 2022.

The CDC Confirm Outbreak of Dental Infection: What Happened and What To Look Out For?
14Nov
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued a warning following confirmation of a recent outbreak of a nontuberculous mycobacteria infection. This appears to have been caused by contaminated water lines in some dental clinics. Now, medical professionals are urging parents to look out for symptoms in their children and themselves. Fortunately, treatment is available for those who have caught the infection.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued a warning that some American children have caught a serious infection from contaminated water lines in some dental clinics [1].

The infection, caused by a bacteria type called Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) is rare. But small clusters of cases in recent years have taken place, with the CDC now becoming aware of another recent cluster [1].

The harmful bacteria lodge in the narrow water lines of dental equipment. This equipment is used for everything – from routine cavity fillings to more complex procedures like root canal treatments.

What is Nontuberculous Mycobacteria?

NTM is a type of bacteria. It is found in water, marshland and soil. However, it shouldn’t be confused with mycobacteria tuberculous – which causes Tuberculosis.

While children are predominantly at risk, adults can also be affected. Infections typically occur after either wisdom teeth extractions or root canal treatments [1].

One of the most notorious past outbreaks of NTM came in California in 2016 [1]. 71 patients were treated for NTM infection [1].

NTM is not the only infection or disease linked to dental water lines. For example, Legionella Disease is another type of bacteria that has contaminated water supplies in dental clinics in the past [3].

The new outbreak

This most recent outbreak was in March 2022, which the CDC was alerted to [2]. An investigation into this new outbreak is being carried out by the CDC [2].

Initial visits to the dental clinic under investigation found that the tested water line resulted in microbial counts far higher than the level recommended by the CDC [2].

Symptoms and treatment of an NTM infection

The symptoms of an NTM infection usually involve swelling in the jaw or neck. Moreover, an abscess, pain, weight loss, night sweats and general fever are other symptoms to look out for [4]. Symptoms do not always appear immediately. Instead, they can slowly appear.

If left alone, hearing loss, permanent tooth loss and facial nerve palsy are potential consequences [1]. This underlines the importance of getting help if you believe you have an NTM infection.

NTM infections usually get worse over time [1]. Treatment usually requires surgical removal of the diseased tissue. This can result in loss of the jawbone, and potentially even teeth [1]. Antibiotics are commonly prescribed as part of a multi-drug regimen [1].

In every case in the past that has involved NTM infection following dental treatment, a surgical procedure has been required to resolve the issue [1]. Therefore, this shows the possible damage of an NTM infection.

The CDC’s comments

Dr. Michele Neuburger is a dental officer within the CDC’s Division of Oral Health. She commented on this development. She says that “NTM infections following dental procedures are very serious” [1].

Neuburger continued by warning that “these infections can be resistant to antibiotic treatment”, before calling them “difficult to treat” [1].

Continuing, Neuburger says that “if dental water lines are not maintained properly and regularly treated with germicides, these bacteria, along with other microorganisms in the water, will attach to the interior surfaces of the water-line tubing and form a biofilm, which serves as a reservoir where microorganisms can grow and increase in numbers” [1].

Neuburger continued to explain by saying that “pieces of biofilm can break off into the water system and then be released into the patient’s mouth” [1].

Furthermore, Neuburger has urged parents to contact their dentist immediately if they suspect themselves or a child of theirs has developed an NTM infection [1].

The CDC have made some recommendations to dental clinics. These include the regular use of chemical germicides in the water lines – which can help in lessening the threat of bacteria.

It is important for dental clincis to follow these guidelines. Moreover, this involves maintaining equipment and following safety procedures for water to ensure that it is safe for use.

These infections are rare, but do happen. Remaining vigilant both before and after dental treatment is important. Our oral health is crucial, and should always be a priority for us all.

Thinking points…

1) While this is concerning, do not let this put you off attending the dentist. Please remember that NTM infections are very rare. Visiting the dentist is very important for both yourself and your children. Regular check-ups can help to ensure your oral health is strong, and identify any potential problems. Remember to book an appointment when needed!

2) If this news makes you anxious, you’ll be pleased to hear that at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental, safety is of the utmost importance to us. We follow the designated guidelines to ensure our water supply is safe for patients. Furthermore, our dental staff are always happy to talk you through treatments, and reassure you about the water supply. We would love to see you soon – see our website for more information!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of treatment options and advice aimed at improving oral health.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

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

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are 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] Reinberg, S. (2022). CDC warns of rare bacterial infections from dentists’ water lines. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-11-cdc-rare-bacterial-infections-dentists.html. Last accessed: 12th November 2022.

[2] CDC Health Alert Network. (2022). Outbreaks of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Infections Highlight Importance of Maintaining and Monitoring Dental Waterlines. Available: https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2022/han00478.asp. Last accessed: 12th November 2022.

[3] Atlas, R. M., Williams, J. F., & Huntington, M. K. (1995). Legionella contamination of dental-unit waters. Applied and Environmental Microbiology. 61 (4): p1208-1213. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1128/aem.61.4.1208-1213.1995.

[4] Asthma + Lung UK. (2022). Non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection (NTM). Available: Last accessed: 12th November 2022.

Canadian National Dental Benefit Passes Third Reading: What Now?
6Nov
The new Canadian National Dental Benefit continues to get closer. The House of Commons has passed the dental benefit bill, having gained enough backing for it to pass its third reading. While there are still some steps to go, this decision has led to excitement for many, with the bill likely to help improve the oral health of many Canadians over the next few years.

The proposed Canadian National Dental Benefit continues to get closer, with the bill clearing another hurdle recently.

Members of Parliament in The House of Commons passed the dental benefit bill, with the bill gaining the support of 172 of the 310 MP’s that voted.

While there are still some steps remaining, the dental benefit is closer to coming to fruition. Soon, qualifying families will be able to benefit from financial assistance towards dental care for their children.

Background

The dental plan is a key part of the supply and confidence agreement between the Liberals and the New Democratic Party (NDP). For the NDP, implementing the dental plan has been one of their key objectives as a political party.

The original expectation was for the dental plan to be ready by the end of 2022. However, with this not happening, the Liberals reached a compromise by initially offering a benefit program [1].

The benefit will provide assistance for dental fees for families with a household income of below $90,000 [2]. At first, those aged under 12 will benefit. Families can receive up to $650 per year towards dental care for their child [2].

While the plans are still being finalised, currently, the idea is that qualifying families will need to provide the Canada Revenue Agency with the name and address of their licensed dental practitioner, along with the month of their planned appointment [3].

Passing the third reading in the House of Commons

In the latest key moment of the process towards confirming the benefit, the bill was able to pass its third reading in the House of Commons. However, there was some opposition from the Conservatives and the Bloc.

The bill had 172 supporters – mainly from the Liberals and the NDP. 138 MP’s dissented – from the Conservatives and the Bloc Quebecois party [1].

As the number of dissenters suggests, there have been some concerns raised. For example, it has been questioned whether or not now is the right time for such an investment to be made, given the rising inflation seen in recent times [4].

Andrew Scheer – Conservative House Leader – was among those unimpressed [1]. He said that by handing out cash, that the government would be contributing to inflation, and actually make the cost of living crisis worse [1].

Then, there was also the concern raised by Parliamentary Budget Officer Yves Giroux, who argued that the dental benefit is vulnerable to fraud [4]. He has told the government that robust verification methods need to be in place to protect against fraud [4].

But for the Liberals and the NDP, the positives outweighed the negatives. They were happy to support the bill, believing that it is a step in the right direction.

Jagmeet Singh, leader of the NDP – was understandably delighted. He said that “the Conservatives fought us at every chance — but we didn’t stop pushing and we’re not done fighting” [5].

Similarly, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the “legislation is off to the Senate, and Canadians are one step closer to getting this support” [5].

What next?

The benefit is getting closer. Its next step is to make its way through the Senate. Finally, it will then need to receive royal assent. Once this is done, families will be able to apply [1].

Once the benefit has been confirmed, the government will get to work on the next phase of the plan. The aim is for a full rollout of the national dental plan to be in place by 2025 [2].

Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos has spoken about this. He says that “there will be a second program that will be better suited to the dental-health care that other Canadians, including the younger children, will need over time, that includes seniors, people with disabilities, people with relatively low- or middle-income ranges” [6]. We are gradually getting ever closer to the dental plan!

Thinking points…

1) This dental benefit will initially be for those aged 12 and under. It is likely to be a few years before the wider population can benefit. Therefore, it is important for us all to keep looking after our oral health. An important part of this is getting regular dental checks-ups, as this can help to ensure that your oral health is strong, and for any problems to be noticed and acted upon. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) One of the most appealing aspects of the dental benefit is the fact that existing dental fees can be very expensive. Many people struggle to afford dental fees. However, here at Savanna Dental, our fees are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which ensures transparency and no nasty surprise costs. To find out more, or to have a conversation with us about your oral health or needs, we would love for you to get in touch with us!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of treatment options and advice aimed at improving oral health.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

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

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are 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] Osman, L. (2022). Federal dental care benefit gets go-ahead from House of Commons. Available: https://www.ctvnews.ca/mobile/politics/federal-dental-care-benefit-gets-go-ahead-from-house-of-commons-1.6128693. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

[2 Tunney, C. (2022). Liberals agree to launch dental care program in exchange for NDP support. Available: https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/trudeu-jagmeet-singh-deal-government-1.6393021. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

[3] Osman, L. (2022). Dental-care legislation among first bills on docket as Parliament resumes. Available: https://edmontonsun.com/news/national/dental-care-legislation-among-first-bills-on-docket-as-parliament-resumes/wcm/d8f9f155-aa51-440c-8b23-52264d179c8f/amp/. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

[4] Al Mallees, N. (2022). New dental benefit vulnerable to fraud without verification measures: PBO. Available: https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/new-dental-benefit-vulnerable-to-fraud-without-verification-measures-pbo-1.6124065. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

[5] Docto, I. (2022). Canadians are one step closer to getting a universal dental care program. Available: https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/dental-care-program-passes-parliament. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

[6] Pangilinan, M. (2022). Officials share plans for federal dental care benefit. Available: https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/ca/news/breaking-news/officials-share-plans-for-federal-dental-care-benefit-425767.aspx. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

TikTok’s Worrying DIY Dentistry: What Are These Dangerous Trends?
31Oct
Social media app TikTok has a large amount of content that promotes the practice of “do-it-yourself dentistry”, causing concern among dental professionals. Impressionable youngsters and teenagers are unwittingly putting their oral health in danger by following some of the trends on the app. These trends typically promise excellent results for their oral appearance at little-to-no cost.

TikTok is one of the most popular social media apps currently. While the app is full of comedic content, famous speakers and interesting media, there is also a darker side to it.

One of the most harmful sides of TikTok is the rise of “do-it-yourself dentistry”, also known as DIY dentistry [1]. You could be forgiven for thinking that DIY dentistry refers to us all brushing our teeth and flossing them – as we should.

But actually, it refers to DIY methods that are supposed hacks and techniques that people can use to improve the look of their smile, teeth, gums and more.

These techniques fool impressionable children and teenagers, and risks serious damage and long-term problems for oral health. Therefore, it is important for parents and children alike to know the danger.

Background

TikTok is a social media app where users upload short videos, The app is expected to have almost 2billion accounts by the end of 2022 – showing the scale of how many people use the app [2].

A large percentage of TikTok’s users are children, teenagers and young adults. This represents a group that is still maturing, and are therefore very impressionable.

Moreover, it is common to have self-esteem issues at this age. This fuels the desire to look “perfect”, with teeth seen as an area that many people wish to improve. Furthermore, social media is full of so-called “influencers” who often display unrealistic looks.

Then there is also the issue of dental care being expensive, and not accessible by everyone. Therefore, this turns some people towards DIY dentistry. Many people believe these treatments are painless and effective, but this isn’t the case.

The most popular videos are supposed “success stories”, with disappointing results rarely seen. This leads to many thinking that these are fool proof techniques that guarantee success.

Example Case: Tooth Gems

The hashtag #DIYdentist has 2.6million views – showing its widespread popularity [1]. This hashtag brings up thousands of videos, the vast majority of which have content that is harmful to its viewers.

One example is tooth gems. Older readers may remember the “tooth gem” trend that was common during the 2000s. While they had seemingly been forgotten, TikTok has breathed new life into the trend.

Tooth gems put colourful gems on teeth, which some people find desirable. Therefore, this has led to many influencers selling their own DIY tooth gem kits [1].

These kits sell on Amazon cheaply, leading to many people purchasing them. But the product reviews show the danger, with phrases like “bleeding gums”, “tooth sensitivity” and “pain” are common [1]. These gems also attract bacteria, further increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Many people struggle to make these gems stick, which has led to many suggesting using nail glue to solve the problem [2]. However, nail glue is toxic and can damage tooth enamel [1]. Many of these products are made in China – a nation with much less stringent safety rules and regulations on such products.

Other dangerous trends

Many other dangerous trends exist. For example, tooth replacement kits. This is something that should never be attempted by anyone other than a fully qualified dentist. These kits often include “drills”, which are not fit for purpose. It is crucial to not alter the shape of your teeth.

Another trend that has gained popularity is a so-called “healthy coke”. This drink is made up of balsamic vinegar and sparkling water. This drink has been called a healthy version of Coca-Cola, as there is supposedly no sugar. But while it isn’t as unhealthy as regular soda, the acidic content is enormous.

Therefore, this drink causes tooth decay and is actually more acidic than regular cola. In fact, a recent study found that “healthy coke” was almost as bad as regular sodas when it comes to eroding teeth [3].

Lemon juice is something else that many people on TikTok are erroneously suggesting is healthy for oral health [2]. Many videos see users adding lemon juice to their water to create a low-cost sparkling drink. However, lemon juice is very acidic, which results in increased erosion of the enamel and a higher likelihood of cavities.

Dentist’s Reaction

These videos are very worrying and cause alarm to any dentist. The potential damage to oral health is very concerning, and often result in younger people worsening their oral health.

Dr. Ruchi Sahota is a spokesperson for the American Dental Association [1]. She has spoken out about the rise of DIY dentistry, which is a growing concern for dental professionals.

She has pointed to how years of studying and experience informs a dentist’s treatment choices. Sahota says “when we practice dentistry, we do it with the background information of years of training, X-rays, and the experience that helps us decide when and how to do the treatment” [1].

Dentist Dr. Amber Bonnaig has stated that the cost of dental care and lack of access is making DIY dentistry an appealing alternative. She says that “a major contributing factor is lack of access to dental care” [1].

Sahota finishes by saying something very important – “you can have a beautiful smile, even if it’s not perfect” [1]. This is very important to remember.

Thinking points…

1) As we mentioned, TikTok is mainly used by children and teenagers. If you have children, it is important to inform them of the dangers of DIY dentistry. They can cause significant and costly damage to their teeth, whilst also having long-term consequences for their oral health. Therefore, have a conversation with them, and make sure they stick to conventional methods of aiding their oral health, like brushing regularly and visiting the dentist for a check-up. We recommend having a talk with them soon!

2) If you are interested in cosmetic dentistry, there are safe ways of achieving this. It is important to see an actual dentist, as they can provide safe treatment with proper aftercare. For example, here at [clinic name], we offer cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and Invisalign™. At your next appointment, why not have a discussion with your dentist about your treatment options! We would love you to book an appointment with us soon!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of treatment options and advice aimed at improving oral health.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

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

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are 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] Giles, C. (2022). Don’t drill your own teeth! And quashing other rotten dental advice on TikTok. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-10-dont-drill-teeth-quashing-rotten.html. Last accessed: 28th October 2022.

[2] Iqbal, M. (2022). TikTok Revenue and Usage Statistics (2022). Available: https://www.businessofapps.com/data/tik-tok-statistics/. Last accessed: 29th October 2022.

[3] Eckhart, S. D., Brewster, J. A., & Curtis, D. C. (2022). The erosive potential of sugar-free waters on cervical dentin. JADA Foundational Science. 1 (100009). DOI: https://doi.org/10.10

Canadian Government Invests in the Future of Dental Care: What Is Involved?
26Oct
The Canadian Government have announced through its Canadian Institutes of Health Research organization that they are committing $2million to support improved research into oral health science. The hope is that this investment will improve dental health for Canadians. The announcement has been met with positive reactions.

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) has announced a large investment of $2million into supporting Canada’s national research network to advance research in oral health science and ultimately improve dental care for Canadians [1].

The importance of oral health cannot be understated. It is closely linked with physical health. For example, research has showed that people with oral health conditions like gum disease are at a higher risk of developing conditions like Arthritis, Diabetes and Cardiovascular conditions [2].

Therefore, this investment will be very positive for Canadians, who will hopefully benefit from the enhanced research in years to come.

Announcement

The announcement was made by Rachel Bendayan, Member of Parliament for Outremont. Bendayan’s announcement was also linked to the Minister of Health, Jean-Yves Duclos [1].

They announced that an investment of $2million over five years will take place [1]. The money will be used to support Canada’s research into improving oral health science.

The funds will be assigned to The Network for Canadian Oral Health Research (NCOHR), which is a group of various institutions, hospitals and healthcare providers [1].

They are all teaming to find new discoveries, launch new projects and strengthen existing techniques and methods of improving and maintaining oral health.

The network will be using some of the funds to support the training of the next generation of oral health workers and researchers. They have committed to focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion [1].

Partnership with Statistics Canada

Moreover, some of the investment will be used in forging a partnership with Statistics Canada. The CIHR will partner with Statistics Canada to develop an oral health data platform that will assist with research and policy development [1].

This platform will be used to display data from the Canadian Health Measures Survey. Therefore, this will allow researchers to to analyze the connection between oral and physical health further [1].

The platform will be able to help researchers and future trainees learn more about the oral health of Canadians, which can benefit overall oral health across the nation.

Reactions

Reactions to this announcement have been positive. There is a feeling that this investment will be very worthwhile, due to the long-term boost this will have on healthcare.

Jean-Yves Duclos – Minister of Health – was among those to spearhead this investment. He commented by saying that the research that the investment will make possible will help to “improve dental care by better understanding oral health conditions and developing more effective treatments” [1].

Dr. Ana Miriam Velly of the NCOHR, mentioned that “there is no healthy body without oral health” [1]. Continuing, she said that the investment will help the NCOHR to “promote and support oral health research excellence, which is critical to ensure a high level of oral health and care for all Canadians” [1].

The Good that this can do

This investment is likely to be very positive for Canadians. There is a lot of good that this can do, and it comes at an important time.

Statistics show that in 2018, almost 1 in 4 Canadians didn’t see a dental professional [3]. When a person avoids the dentist, any problems they have worsen, causing further issues.

Other barriers to dental care include a lack of awareness of oral health importance, cost and access issues. However, these issues can be tackled by enhanced investment.

This investment will run in conjunction with the national dental care plan that is due to begin imminently. This dental care plan will see the government investing over $5billion over a five-year period.

With appreciation of the importance of oral health at an all-time high, now is the perfect time for further investment into research. Consequently, the aim is for Canadians to see a marked improvement in their oral health over the forthcoming years and generations.

Thinking points…

1) The fact that the Canadian government is dedicating a large amount of funds to oral health shows how important it is. This is a good opportunity for you to take a look at your oral health, is there more you could do to improve it? Why not set yourself a target of cutting down on sugar, or flossing on a more regular basis? These are small changes that could make a very positive difference!

2) As has been mentioned, oral health is very important. In order to get an accurate overview of your oral health, make sure you regularly attend dental check-ups. You should ideally see your dentist twice a year. If any problems are present, they will be able to identify them, and suggest treatment if necessary. We strongly recommend that you book an appointment soon!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of treatment options and advice aimed at improving oral health.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

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

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are 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] Canadian Institutes of Health Research. (2022). Government of Canada invests in research to improve dental care for Canadians. Available: https://www.canada.ca/en/institutes-health-research/news/2022/10/government-of-canada-invests-in-research-to-improve-dental-care-for-canadians.html. Last accessed: 21st October 2022.

[2] BBC. (2022). The silent danger of deep gum disease. Available: https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20220707-why-bad-teeth-are-harmful-to-your-health. Last accessed: 21st October 2022.

[3] Canadian Dental Association. (2022). Canadian Dental Association Conducts Annual Days on the Hill Event. Available: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/about/media_room/news_releases/2022/2022_DOTH.asp. Last accessed: 21st October 2