Category: Dental Care

A partnership between large organizations Smile Train and Dentsply Sirona has led to the creation of a new device which should aid improvements in access to care for those with cleft-related problems. The device – called Primescan 2 – has the potential to help a range of people, especially those from low-income and sparsely populated areas.

A partnership between two large organizations has yielded the creation of a new device which will hopefully result in improvements in access to care for those with cleft-related problems [1].

The creation is called the Primescan 2, which is a portable, cloud-based dental scanner which can be used in a variety of locations – improving access to treatment [1].

This update is very positive. Anyone with oral health problems – regardless of their location – deserves to get the treatment they need.

What is a Cleft lip?

Cleft lips are a very common facial birth defect. A cleft is a gap or split in the upper lip. Clefts exist when a baby’s face doesn’t join together properly during development in the womb.

However, those with clefts face problems with breathing, eating, speaking and hearing in their formative years. While these problems typically ease as they get older, some problems can be lifelong without treatment.

Children with clefts typically have poorer oral health than those without. For example, one study found that in children aged 4-6, those born with a cleft had significantly poorer oral health than those who didn’t [2].

Therefore, getting treatment is important. Treatment normally involves corrective surgery. However, not everyone can afford this, especially those from poorer backgrounds.

Fortunately, several charities that aim to help with cleft treatments exist. These charities have helped to provide care for many children around the world.

The World Health Organization have reported that globally, clefts exist in one in every 1,000-1,500 births [3].

The partnership

The aforementioned partnership is between Dentsply Sirona and Smile Train. Dentsply Sirona is the world’s largest manufacturer of dental products and technologies [1].

Meanwhile, Smile Train is the largest cleft-focused organization in the world. They have made significant contributions towards cleft-focused research and treatments.

In fact, Smile Train has recently celebrated its 25th anniversary [1]. They have provided over 2 million cleft surgeries in its history [1]. This equates to over 80,000 surgeries a year.

This partnership works well as it combines a manufacturing giant with an organization that has significant reach in terms of finding the right recipients for care.

This is summed up by Andrea Frohning – senior vice-president at Dentsply Sirona. She calls it a “perfect partnership” as Dentsply Sirona “manufacture the equipment that allows Smile Train to reach a broader group of patients who might otherwise be unreachable” [1].

The partnership began in 2021, with Dentsply Sirona committing $5 million in donations, research, development and technological support to assist children and adults affected by clefts [1].

Primescan 2

The biggest achievement of this partnership has been the creation of Primescan 2, which was launched in September 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada [1].

Primescan 2 is a portable and fully cloud-integrated dental scanner that can help dentists to design and create dental restorations – including crowns, bridges, and dentures in-clinic [1].

The dental scanner connects seamlessly with existing CAD/CAM systems, which means it can feasibly be used by any dental practice [1].

Therefore, highly remote and sparsely populated areas which normally wouldn’t have access to such devices can benefit from this technology too [1].

The aim for both organizations in the partnership is to integrate cleft care into the healthcare policies of nations around the world. Subsequently, this would ensure that every child with a cleft can access treatment.

How will this help?

One of the biggest issues in the treatment of cleft patients is the distance that they typically need to travel. This is especially the case in some poorer nations.

Phillip Carroll – senior vice-president of communications at Smile Train – says that “half of our patients travel between two and five hours to reach care facilities, some travel for more than 18 hours” [1].

Therefore, this technology can cut down on travel time and costs, and provide more localized care [1]. This is very convenient for all parties involved.

Its low-cost and transportable nature should mean that it can be used every country around the world. This should help provide care to a huge number of people.

Smile Train hope that their positive work in this industry will continue. The organization estimated that their work has boosted economies by $69 billion in more than 90 countries [4].

The partnership will continue to run in the next few years. The development of Primescan 2 is another innovation that will hopefully result in further improvements in care for those with cleft-related conditions.

Thinking points…

1) Do you have, or know, a child with a cleft lip? If so, this article could be very interesting for them. Smile Train offers excellent resources on their website, especially if you or someone you know is looking into corrective surgery. Why not share this article with your social network now?

2) Many people, including those with a cleft lip, are at an increased risk of oral health problems. However, even if you are not at an increased risk, it is still important for you to look after your oral health. One way of helping your oral health is to attend regular dental appointments. At these appointments, a dentist can take a look at your oral health in detail and provide advice and a treatment plan if needed. We recommend that you book an appointment 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] Al-Shibeeb, D. (2024). Transforming cleft care: non-profit, dental giant use portable scanners to reach remote communities. Available: https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/news/perfect-partnership-new-tech-allows-smile-train-to-expand-global-cleft-care-with-dentsply-sirona-1003982574/. Last accessed: 14th November 2024.

[2] Chopra, A., Lakhanpal, M., Rao, N. C., Gupta, N., & Vashisth, S. (2014). Oral health in 4-6 years children with cleft lip/palate: a case control study. North American journal of medical sciences. 6 (6): p266–269. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/1947-2714.134371.

[3] Putri, F. A., Pattamatta, M., Anita, S. E. S., & Maulina, T. (2024). The Global Occurrences of Cleft Lip and Palate in Pediatric Patients and Their Association with Demographic Factors: A Narrative Review. Children. 11 (3): 322. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/children11030322.

[4] Smile Train. (2024). Smile Train Announces Global Cleft Surgeries Boost Economies by $69 Billion in More Than 90 Countries, According to New Report. Available: https://www.smiletrain.org/news/smile-train-announces-global-cleft-surgeries-boost-economies-69-billion-more-90-countries. Last accessed: 14th November 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.

Gum Disease is very difficult to treat, despite it affecting so many people around the world. However, new research suggests that a narrow-spectrum antibiotic called FP 100 could help to eradicate a type of oral bacteria that is linked to gum disease. This is an exciting development that could revolutionize the treatment of gum disease.

New research has looked into the possibility of a narrow-spectrum antibiotic successfully eradicating a type of oral bacteria that has been linked to Gum Disease [1].

Moreover, the antibiotic has the benefit of not harming the oral or gut microbiomes – which is a very positive element of this research too.

Gum disease is a condition that impacts huge amounts of people. Therefore, any findings that can assist in the treatment of this condition are welcomed.

About Gum Disease

Gum disease is an oral health condition. It involves the gums becoming swollen, inflamed, and painful. Mild gum disease is called Gingivitis, and severe gum disease is called Periodontitis.

Gum disease is incredibly common. For example, statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that approximately 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women aged 30 years or above have some level of periodontitis [2].

Gum disease has the potential to develop to the point where the jawbone weakens to the extent where tooth loss can happen.

Current treatment involves slowing the progression of gum disease. However, such treatments are costly, and don’t actually stop the condition.

The type of bacteria involved in this research is called fusobacterium nucleatum. Past research has confirmed that fusobacterium nucleatum is a key pathogen in gum disease [3].

The Research

The research was carried out by a team of researchers from the Forsyth Institute. Their findings have been published in the Journal of Oral Microbiology [1].

The research involved FP 100 – also known as Hygromycin A. This is a small molecule, narrow-spectrum antibiotic. Narrow-spectrum antibiotics are a form of antibiotic that can only eradicate, or limit the damage of, a limited number of bacterial species [1].

To begin, the researchers explained what fusobacterium nucleatum does. They said that this bacteria enters human cells and easily spreads to other parts of the body, where they colonize [1].

The researchers wanted to see how FP 100 would deal with harmful bacteria in a bacterial community. To set this up, a mouse was induced with fusobacterium nucleatum. Moreover, the mouse had periodontitis [1].

Therefore, the mouse had both healthy and unhealthy bacteria – including the fusobacterium nucleatum – in its oral cavity.

Then, FP 100 was introduced to the bacterial community, where the researchers left it for 48 hours [1].

Over this period, the researchers waited to see how FP 100 interacted with the community. The community was analyzed at 24-hour intervals using 16S rRNA sequencing [1].

At the end of the first 24 hours, the levels of fusobacterium nucleatum had already reduced. Then, after 48 hours, the levels of harmful bacteria had significantly reduced [1].

This meant that FP 100 had managed to substantially reduce the levels of fusobacterium nucleatum over a 48-hour period [1].

Amazingly, the researchers noted that the healthy bacteria – which the mouth needs – was unaffected by FP 100. Instead, it was purely the harmful bacteria which was substantially reduced.

Overall, the findings are very positive. The antibiotic appears to be able to eradicate the harmful bacteria and prevent the progression of gum disease – both without harming us.

What will happen next?

The findings have enormous potential for the future treatment of gum disease. Arguably, FP 100 has the potential to transform treatment of gum disease.

The researchers were understandably delighted with the findings. For example, Alpdogan Kantarci – the lead author – said that “this type of black and white data almost never happens” [4].

Kantarci explained that with FP 100, “we can eliminate fusobacterium nucleatum from the oral cavity, reverse tissue destruction and prevent disease progression” – all without harming the microbiome [4].

Due to the narrow-spectrum qualities of FP 100, it means that it only targets the fusobacterium nucleatum. It doesn’t attack beneficial bacteria. This is a marked improvement on regular antibiotics – which attack both harmful and beneficial bacteria [1].

This antibiotic also has the potential to exceed treating gum disease. The researchers believe it could help to prevent several chronic diseases, including heart disease, some types of cancer and arthritis [1].

The Forsyth Institute and biotechnology company Flightpath Biosciences have filed a joint patent application for FP 100 [4]. They are aiming to create further clinical trials going forward.

FP 100 appears to have numerous positive points. Not only does it provide oral health benefits, but it can also extend to physical health benefits too.

Thinking points…

1) Gum disease was a key topic in the above research. Because gum disease typically develops over a long period of time, it is difficult for dentists to track its progression. Therefore, it is important to attend regular dental check-ups, as these offer a way for dentists to keep track of any development of gum disease. If they do notice signs of gum disease, they can provide practical advice. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) While gum disease cannot be cured, there are things that can be done to slow the progression of the condition. For example, these include root planing and scaling. If you have gum disease, you could ask your dentist about these options – as they could be helpful. Why not discuss them with your dentist at your next check-up?

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] Yakar, N., Unlu, O., Cen, L., Hasturk, H., Chen, T., Shi, W., He, X., & Kantarci, A. (2024). Targeted elimination of Fusobacterium nucleatum alleviates periodontitis. Journal of Oral Microbiology. 16 (1). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/20002297.2024.2388900.

[2] Eke, P. I., Thornton-Evans, G. O., Wei, L., Borgnakke, W. S., Dye, B. A., & Genco, R. J. (2018). Periodontitis in US Adults. The Journal of the American Dental Association. 149 (7): p576-588. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adaj.2018.04.023.

[3] Liu, P-F., Haake, S. K., Gallo, R. L., & Huang, C-M. (2009). A novel vaccine targeting Fusobacterium nucleatum against abscesses and halitosis. Vaccine. 27 (10): p1580-1595. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaccine.2008.12.058.

[4] Forsyth Institute. (2024). First narrow-spectrum antibiotic successfully eliminates Fusobacterium nucleatum, a gum disease pathogen. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-09-narrow-spectrum-antibiotic-successfully-fusobacterium.html. Last accessed: 12th September 2024.