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How Has the Canadian Dental Association Responded to the Proposed New Federal Dental Program?
28Mar
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) has released a statement in response to the Federal Government’s proposed federal dental program. This landmark program is expected to improve dental access for millions of Canadians. Therefore, the CDA has welcomed the announcement. They aim to work with the Federal Government over the coming years as part of the program.

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) has responded to the Canadian Federal Government’s announcement of a proposed new federal dental program.

The CDA released a statement, where they reacted positively to the news. However, they did voice a degree of concern over fears that recent progress that has been made could be slowed down.

The dental program aims to increase dental coverage for millions of Canadians considered to have a low income. The dental program should be beneficial for millions of people around Canada.

About the proposed federal dental program

The federal dental program was announced by the Liberal Party. They reached an agreement with the NDP, as part of a wider confidence-and-supply agreement between the two parties, designed to keep the Liberal Party in power until 2025 [1].

The program would be for families with an income of less than $90,000 annually [1]. The program aims to involve both preventative and restorative services. For example, this would include routine examinations and cavity fillings.

Currently, the dental program is planned to begin later in 2022, before two further phases will take place [1]. The full rollout is expected in 2025.

The CDA’s response

The CDA responded to the agreement in a positive way. They said at the outset of their statement that “all Canadians have a right to good oral health” [2].

Moreover, they note that they have always supported efforts to improve access to oral healthcare for all, with particular focus on those from certain demographics or groups, including seniors, those with disabilities, indigenous people and low-income families [2].

The CDA mention the need to “invest in, and enhance, existing provincial and territorial dental programs” [2]. This refers to existing efforts, and how the Federal Government can’t afford to get complacent with current programs.

They suggest that such efforts are the “single best way” to improve oral health and access to healthcare [2]. However, the CDA also state that such programs are underfunded.

Therefore, the CDA have said that the Federal Government’s dental program left them “surprised” [2]. It appears that the history of dental programs being underfunded has resulted in surprise and concern from the CDA as to whether or not this program will be a success.

The CDA finished their statement by stating that they are looking forward to “collaborating closely with the Federal Government as it works to address the oral health needs of Canadians” [2].

The bigger picture

The CDA have certainly responded in a positive manner. However, they have also promoted caution, mainly due to concerns over past problems with dental programs.

The CDA will hope that this dental program doesn’t stunt the progress that has been made with dental coverage in recent years. Instead, they will hope that it complements it.

Dental coverage is an issue that continues to affect many people. Past research has found that in a 12-month period, just 75% of Canadians visited a dentist, with 23% being put off from visiting due to the cost [3]. This represents a sizeable amount of people who do not get dental check-ups.

Overall, this is positive news for many Canadians. Everyone deserves oral healthcare, and this plan should help millions more people receive much-needed help.

Thinking points…

1) The CDA have consistently promoted improved access to dental care. Another key area that they emphasize is the importance of attending regular dental check-ups. This is an important part of maintaining strong oral hygiene. We recommend having a check-up at least twice a year. Consider booking one now!

2) What do you think of the agreement on improved dental coverage? Are you pleased with it? If you can pinpoint anyone that might benefit from it, encourage them to attend a dental check up soon, rather than wait, as early detection of problems are important. This can also get them into good habits going forward.

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] 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: 26th March 2022.

[2] Canadian Dental Association. (2022). CDA Responds to Federal Government Considering New Federal Dental Program. Available: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/about/media_room/statements/dental_program_funding/index.asp. Last accessed: 26th March 2022.

[3] Statistics Canada. (2019). Dental Care, 2018. Available: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-625-x/2019001/article/00010-eng.htm. Last accessed: 26th March 2022.

Does Parkinson’s Disease Have an Affect on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life?
21Mar
Parkinson’s Disease has a negative impact on multiple areas of a patient’s life. The condition is associated with shaking and slow movement. However, researchers have now analyzed the link between Parkinson’s and oral health-related quality of life. The research found that those with Parkinson’s disease had a very poor oral health quality of life.

Parkinson’s Disease is a debilitating condition that affects a person in many different ways. It is a rather common condition that many people suffer from.

The physical impact of Parkinson’s Disease is well established. But oral health is an area related to Parkinson’s Disease which has only limited research.

Now, researchers have analysed the oral health-related quality of life for those with Parkinson’s Disease. They have found that those who suffer from the condition typically have worse oral health than those without Parkinson’s Disease.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease is a condition that involves parts of the brain getting progressively damaged over the course of many years [1]. The three main symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease are involuntary shaking, slow movement and stiff or inflexible muscles [1].

England’s NHS predicts that around 1 in 500 people are diagnosed with the condition, with most developing symptoms once they are over the age of 50 [1].

As well as physical issues, there are other issues too. For example, Parkinson’s Disease has been linked to poor mental health and general psychological wellbeing [2].

Existing research has shown a link does exist between poor oral health and Parkinson’s Disease. One study found that those with the condition have more chewing difficulties, more denture discomfort, less teeth and more swallowing issues than those without [3].

The Research

A group of researchers from the Netherlands recently completed a study. Their findings were published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation [4].

The researchers sought to analyze the link between Parkinson’s Disease and “oral health-related quality of life”. Oral health quality of life is defined as “a multi-dimensional construct that reflects factors such as people’s comfort when eating, sleeping and engaging in social interaction; their self-esteem; and their satisfaction with respect to their oral health” [4].

The research involved 752 participants aged 18-75 from the Netherlands. 341 of the participants had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Therefore, the remaining 411 did not [4].

The authors collected their data between June 2020 and June 2021. They used an electronic questionnaire, which was sent to participants. The participants were asked to report on their own oral health through several different questions [4].

The results showed that those with Parkinson’s Disease had worse oral health. For example, among the things reported were more oral facial pain, more tooth (in terms of tooth and dental tissue loss) and a higher incidence of burning mouth syndrome [4].

What this means

This research shows that there is a clear link between the oral health-related quality of life and Parkinson’s Disease. Therefore, the findings are rather worrying, and show that those with early stage Parkinson’s Disease need to take extra care with their oral health.

By adopting a more rigorous oral hygiene process, those with Parkinson’s Disease will hopefully be able to lessen future problems, or at least slow the onset of oral health problems.

The authors commented on their findings [5]. They concluded that “although problems concerning oral health are probably subordinate to other problems present in Parkinson’s Disease patients, this article suggests that oral-health related quality of life may be impaired in patients” [5].

They continued by making a recommendation to dentists [5]. By knowing about these findings, dentists “may be more alert and thus improve Parkinson’s Disease patients’ oral health to prevent further deterioration of their oral health-related quality of life” [5].

The authors did caution that there were some limitations of their study. They said that information from participants without Parkinson’s Disease was taken pre-pandemic [5].

Meanwhile those with Parkinson’s Disease reported during the pandemic. Because routine dentistry was put on hold at this time, they may have had worse oral health [5]. Therefore, this may have skewed their findings.

The authors also cautioned that the small sample size and self-report nature of the study may mean that their findings could be unreliable [5]. But their findings are still relevant, and show the clear link between Parkinson’s Disease and oral health problems.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Do you know anyone with Parkinson’s Disease? The findings of this study shows that those with Parkinson’s Disease will typically have a worse oral health-related quality of life. Therefore, you could try and emphasize to them the importance of having strong oral hygiene. As part of this, try and suggest that they book a check-up soon.
  • 2) Many of us will go on to have Parkinson’s Disease in the future. This research shows that oral health is crucial. Therefore, it is important to adopt strong oral hygiene now, as this can protect us in the future. Part of this is to make regular visits to the dentist for a check-up. We would recommend that you book an appointment soon!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides a warm welcome and comfortable experience to its patience whenever needed.

We recommend that our patients 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™! These treatments can have a positive impact on your appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

Importantly, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is helpful.

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] National Health Service. (2019). Parkinson’s disease. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/parkinsons-disease/. Last accessed: 18th March 2022.
  • [2] Uitti, R. J. (2012). Treatment of Parkinson’s disease: focus on quality of life issues. Parkinsonism & Related Disorders. 18 (2): p534-536. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S1353-8020(11)70013-X.
  • [3] Nakayama, Y., Washio, M., & Mori, M. (2004). Oral Health Conditions in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease. Journal of Epidemiology. 14 (5): p143-150. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2188/jea.14.143.
  • [4] Verhoeff, M. C., Lobbezoo, F., van Leeuwen, A. M., Schuller, A. A., & Koutris, M. (2022). Oral health-related quality of life in patients with Parkinson disease. Journal of Oral Rehabiitation. 10: DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/joor.13304.
  • [5] Johnson, H. (2022). People With Parkinson Disease May Have Lower Oral Health Quality of Life. Available: https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/topics/movement-disorders/those-with-parkinson-disease-reported-a-worse-oral-environment/. Last accessed: 18th March 2022.
Could We Have Drill-Free Fillings in the Future?
14Mar
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.
Is Tooth Grinding and Sleep Bruxism Linked to a Range of Jaw Disorders? - Savanna Dental
7Mar
Teeth grinding while asleep and the clenching of the jaws is known as sleep bruxism. Bruxism causes a range of both physical and dental issues. Now, researchers have looked to make a conclusion on the debate of whether or not sleep bruxism is associated with temporomandibular joint disorders – a cluster of conditions that cause a range of jaw issues. In conclusion, the researchers found a positive association.

When we sleep, we all hope for a calm rest to give our bodies a chance to recuperate. While many of us achieve this, a sizeable amount of the population do not.

One such issue that many face is the involuntary grinding of teeth while asleep. This is also associated with the clenching of the upper and lower jaw. These actions are part of a condition known as sleep bruxism.

There has been continued debate as to whether or not sleep bruxism is linked to Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TJMs). These disorders cause intense jaw pain and can cause a range of dental problems.

Now, researchers have sought to understand the connection and find out whether or not sleep bruxism can be linked to TJMs.

What is Sleep Bruxism?

Sleep bruxism refers to when a person grinds their teeth while asleep. It usually includes the clenching of the jaws as well.

Statistics show that approximately 15% of the population suffer from sleep bruxism [1]. An even larger amount will have regular bruxism, which is tooth grinding during the day.

Teeth grinding can wear away tooth enamel due to the strong pressure on tooth surfaces. This makes teeth more vulnerable to decay and caries.

In fact, those with sleep bruxism typically have worse oral health in their lifetime [2]. Sleep bruxism also causes physical issues like jaw pain and even headaches.

Meanwhile, the Temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull. Any disorder that affects this region is considered to be a TMJ [3]. TMJs can cause jaw pain and muscle problems.

The Research

The intention of this research was to find out if there was indeed a connection between sleep bruxism and TMJs. The aim was to make a conclusion on what has proven to be a controversial subject [4].

The research was completed at the University Clinic of Dentistry at the Medical University of Vienna [5]. The findings were published in the Journal of Advanced Research [5].

The researchers entered the study with the theory that specific combinations of tooth shape and tooth location during grinding affects the mechanical load on the temporomandibular joint [5]. Therefore, sleep bruxism could be considered a risk factor for TMJs.

The study used a computer model of the masticatory region – an area that includes the bones and muscles of the head and neck. These models are used in cases where human experiments would be deemed highly unethical.

The researchers tested out various tooth movements and angles using the model [5]. The study analysed the effects of grinding on the first molar and a canine with different inclinations and angles used.

The researchers found that there was an association between bruxism and TMJs [5]. However, it was found that certain tooth shapes and locations were particularly associated with the development of TMJs [5].

What this means

The findings of the study show that there does seem to be a connection between bruxism and TMJs. This is especially pronounced in certain cases where teeth are at a certain angle or inclination during grinding.

Benedikt Sagl of the University of Vienna was among the researchers. Sagl commented on the findings [1]. Sagl suggested that “the decisive factor” was the “steepness” of grinding. For instance, “the flatter the tooth, the higher the risk of a TMJ disorder” [1].

Sagl suggested that more research will be needed to confirm their findings. It was suggested that further research will be used to “establish whether this finding can be incorporated into the development of therapeutic interventions for sleep bruxism” [1].

Thinking points…

  • 1) Bruxism does affect many people. Sometimes, people will grind their teeth out of habit, which is very damaging! It is worth checking to see if you do suffer from bruxism. This is something that can be diagnosed by a dentist. Treatments typically include a mouth guard.
  • 2) The research above is an example of how one seemingly-minor thing can have a big effect on our dental health. Therefore, it is very important that you take good care of your teeth! As part of this, it is vital that you visit the dentist for a regular check-up, where any problems can be identified. Consider booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals and some cosmetic services.

We recommend that our patients 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™! These treatments can have a positive impact on your appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

Importantly, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is helpful.

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 dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

What Effect Does Vaping Have on Gum Disease and Our Oral Health?
28Feb
Researchers have looked extensively at the impact that vaping and e-cigarettes have on gum disease. While smoking has been researched a lot in recent decades, e-cigarettes are relatively new. But the findings of this study found that e-cigarettes are very damaging, and can hasten gum disease. Therefore, e-cigarettes are bad for oral health and shouldn’t be seen as a “healthy” alternative to smoking.

Recent research from a team at the New York University College of Dentistry has found that e-cigarettes cause many problems for oral health, including gum disease [1].

The researchers found that e-cigarette users have a unique microbiome – made up of bacteria – when compared to non-smokers [1]. However, e-cigarette users did have better results than cigarette smokers [1].

This research shows that any form of smoking can be a big issue with oral health. Both hasten the development of gum disease, which can cause significant problems in the long-term.

The rise of vaping

E-cigarette use is termed “vaping”. E-cigarettes work by vaporizing nicotine and other chemicals. They are considered to be healthier than traditional cigarettes, but there is a lack of research to support this.

Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially with younger people. In fact, a 2020 study by the World Health Organization found that many countries now actually have more e-cigarette users than cigarette smokers [2].

The same study referred to e-cigarettes as a “public health concern” [2]. E-cigarettes expose the user to toxic substances that can cause cancer, cardiovascular disease and lung conditions [2].

Vaping and oral health

However, there has been limited research into how vaping effects oral health. It is already known that the bacteria caused by vaping makes a person’s mouth at risk of inflammation and infection [3].

It is known that smoking traditional cigarettes can cause gum disease. But the researchers were looking to see the effects that vaping has on oral health, including in terms of gum disease.

The research

The study was published in the journal Clinical Microbiology [1]. The researchers studied the oral health of 84 adults that were divided into three groups.

The three groups were cigarette smokers, e-cigarette users and people who have never smoked. At the start of the study, all 84 adults had a degree of gum disease [1].

The researchers then planned on assessing the gum health of the 84 participants at two dental exams, six months apart [1]. This would allow them to see the effect that use of e-cigarettes have on gum disease.

Gum disease was measured by the health of the gum ligament and the distance between the separation of tissue and a tooth’s surface [1]. This separation leads to the gum receding and “pockets” to be formed. These pockets are havens for bacteria and worsens gum disease [1].

After six months, the researchers studied the oral health of the participants. They found that gum disease had worsened for the majority of participants in the study [1]. However, e-cigarette users were affected badly, and much more than non-smokers [1]. Those smoking cigarettes were the worst affected [1].

The researchers analyzed the types of bacteria in plaque samples of each group. They concluded that e-cigarette users had several types of damaging bacteria. This created a unique microbiome for e-cigarette users [1].

Fusobacterium and Bacteroidales are types of bacteria that were found in large amounts in e-cigarette users [1], These types of bacteria are known to be associated with gum disease [1].

Furthermore, a separate study also looked at the 84 participants, albeit with a focus on how e-cigarettes effect periodontal disease. This study concluded that periodontal disease had worsened for e-cigarette users in the study [4].

What this means

These findings are very worrying. They show that e-cigarettes maybe a slightly healthier form of smoking, but that there are many health implications for their use. This research shows that this includes oral health consequences.

The researchers were able to conclude that the oral microbiome of e-cigarette users has many negative consequences. This includes gum disease and altered immune responses [1].

Fangxi Xu, one of the authors of the research, commented on the findings [5]. Xu said that vaping seemed to be “driving unique patterns in bacteria and influencing the growth of same bacteria in a manner akin to cigarette smoking, but with its own profile and risks to oral health” [5].

It is likely that over the next few years, further research will be done in this subject area. But for now, the evidence clearly suggests that vaping has dire consequences for oral health.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Do you vape? Or maybe you know someone that does? This research shows the harm that vaping can do to your oral health. Also, it has a range of physical health consequences too. Try and quit vaping as soon as you can, remember there is plenty of support available!
  • 2) This research talks about the impact of gum disease. It is important to attend regular check-ups so that the overall health of your oral health can be assessed by a dental professional. Consider booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals and some cosmetic services.

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://savannadental.ca.

References

How Does the Oral Health of Children With Heart Conditions Compare to Those Without? - Savanna Dental
21Feb
Recent research has found that children with heart conditions appear to have worse oral health and teeth compared to those without heart conditions. Heart conditions already cause many problems. But this research shows that those with heart conditions should take added care with their oral health.

Recent research has found that children with heart conditions typically have worse oral health and teeth when compared to the general population.

These findings add to the issues facing those with heart conditions. However, it also provides the chance to highlight the importance of dental hygiene to those with heart conditions.

Background

Heart conditions affect approximately 900,000 children in the United States [1]. Several different conditions would be classed as a heart condition. For example, these include congenital heart disease, coronary heart disease, angina and arrhythmia.

Heart conditions cause many health problems, and many with heart conditions unfortunately die prematurely. But it is also apparent that there is a strong connection between heart conditions and oral health.

Children with heart conditions are at an increased risk of infection in the bloodstream from oral bacteria [2]. Therefore, dental care is very important for this population.

One study into children with congenital heart disease found very high rates of cavities and plaque levels for those with heart conditions [3].

Poor oral health as a child can result in lifelong dental issues. For example, pain, self-esteem problems and physical health ailments are all likely consequences.

The research

The research was published in the February 2022 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report [4].

The research used data from the 2016 to 2019 National Survey of Children’s Health [4]. This survey involved parents reporting on the oral health of their children in terms of toothache, bleeding gums and decayed teeth [4]. Furthermore, they also reported on if their child had received dental care in the last 12 months.

Almost 120,000 children were involved in the data [4]. 2,928 of them had a heart condition, with 116,826 not having a heart condition [4].

Researchers found that 83% of those with a heart condition had required dental care in the previous year. This compared to a rate of 80% for those without heart conditions [4].

In terms of the condition of teeth, there were similar findings. 9.9% of children with heart conditions were considered to have teeth in poor condition [4]. However, just 5.3% of children without heart conditions had teeth in poor condition [4].

What this means

These findings led to the researchers concluding that there is a noticeable deficit in the oral health of those with heart conditions. It certainly means that those with heart conditions should take extra care with their dental health. For example, this should include regular check-ups, accurate toothbrushing, flossing and other preventive measures recommended by a dentist.

Karrie F. Downing – lead researcher – commented on the findings. She said that the findings “could guide strategies, such as parent and patient education and collaboration between pediatricians, dentists, and cardiologists, to improve oral health and care among children with heart conditions” [5].

Downing also highlighted that this would be especially important for those with “intellectual or developmental disabilities”, which often run in tandem with heart conditions [5].

Thinking points…

  • 1) While the findings above suggest that oral health for those with heart conditions is worse, the statistics are still somewhat alarming for the general population. Therefore, it is important that we all have excellent oral hygiene and take care of our mouths. The best way to see the overall health of your mouth is to visit a dentist for a check-up.
  • 2) Have you got a child? Whether they have a heart condition or not, it is important for them to get into good dental habits for life. Therefore, remember to assist them in brushing, take them to regular check-ups and remind them of the importance of oral health to their overall health.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals and some cosmetic services.

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://savannadental.ca.

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