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Category: Dental Care

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.

References

Should Oral Healthcare Be a Part of Canada’s Long-term Care Home Proposals? - Savanna Dental
7Feb
A new survey has shown that almost all Canadians believe that oral healthcare should be an important part of the new national standards for long-term care. The new standards have been planned for a long time. Most Canadians also believe the current state of oral care for older adults and seniors is unsatisfactory. The findings of the survey suggests that oral healthcare should be a priority for older adults.

A national survey undertaken by Abacus Data for the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) has shown almost all Canadians believe that oral healthcare should be included as part of the new national standards for long-term care.

Interestingly, most Canadians are also of the opinion that the current state of oral healthcare for older adults and seniors are poor. Based on the results of the survey, the CDHA have made a range of recommendations.

This survey comes at an important time. Because the new and long-awaited national standards for long-term care have been released in draft format, the results of this survey show public opinion. This could result in changes being made by authorities.

What are the new national standards for long-term care homes?

The national standards for long-term care were first set out in 2014 [1]. These standards are set by the Canadian federal government. They aim to improve Canada’s long-term care facilities.

Plans for a revision to the original standards started in March 2021 [1]. The new proposals were somewhat instigated by Covid-19. Long-term care facilities, typically for older adults and seniors, have been hit hard by Covid-19. There are over 400,000 Canadian residents in such homes.

Of the first 30,000 deaths in Canada from Covid-19, over half of them occurred in long-term care and retirement homes [1]. Therefore, it was clear that those who reside in these homes need assistance.

Elder citizens are at a higher risk of inflammation, oral bacteria and gum disease [2]. Therefore, this makes oral healthcare being a priority for this age range. Many have argued oral healthcare must form part of the new standards.

The survey

Abacus Data carried out a survey on 2,200 Canadian residents between January 7 and January 12 [3]. Their sample was carefully chosen. The sample reflected Canada’s population in terms of age, gender, education and region [3]. Therefore, this helped to ensure their results would offer a reliable overall picture.

The survey asked the participants a range of questions about their opinions on the current state of oral healthcare for those in long-term care. Moreover, they were also asked for their opinions on the new standards, and whether or not oral healthcare should be included [3].

When asked about the current state of oral health services in long-term care, 47% of respondents said that these services are “non-existent or minimal” [3]. Just 7% of respondents said they were “excellent or good” [3].

Over 50% of respondents agreed that seniors face many challenges in accessing professional oral healthcare [3]. Such challenges include financial problems, lack of support and mobility problems. Moreover, another challenge was poor education and awareness for the importance of oral health and how it affects overall health [3].

Then, 88% of respondents said that they wanted to see oral healthcare integrated into the national standards [3]. As a result, these findings show the dire public opinion of oral healthcare for seniors. Therefore, it is clear that an overwhelming part of the public wants changes to be made.

CDHA Recommendations

The CHDA, which is made up of over 20,000 dental professionals in Canada, have put forward some recommendations based on the results of the survey. These recommendations were announced as part of a recent report that the CDHA released [4].

The CDHA stated that their report had the intention of “increasing awareness of the connection between oral and overall health” [4]. Moreover, they also wanted to present the evidence of the importance of including oral healthcare in the new national standards.

They made five recommendations [4]:

  • The importance of integrating professional dental staff with long-term care homes as part of a “comprehensive program of oral health services” to meet the dental needs of residents.
  • Provide regular oral healthcare services for long-term care home residents. This includes assessments, personalized treatment plans and treatment where needed.
  • All staff members of long-term care homes should receive education on the importance of oral health. This education should be developed and then delivered by dental hygienists.
  • Implementation of new legislation to ensure that there are minimum standards for oral healthcare for long-term care homes.
  • The creation of accreditation standards specific to oral health services in long-term care homes. This would make oral healthcare a priority for care homes./li>

The CDHA believe that the above recommendations can lead to an improvement in oral healthcare for older adults and seniors. As a result, it could result in an improved quality of life.

What this means

Because of the survey’s results and subsequent recommendations, it is clear that there are significant improvements that can be made to oral healthcare in long-term care homes. As a result, the oral health of older adults and seniors should improve.

The CDHA President Wendy Stewart has spoken about the recommendations and overall state of oral healthcare in Canada [5]. Stewart mentioned that “pain, discomfort, difficulties chewing and swallowing” are all consequences of untreated oral conditions [5].

She went on to say that the oral health needs of the “vulnerable population” of long-term care home residents cannot be ignored [5]. Stewart particularly pointed to the importance of their recommendation on educating staff and residents.

Furthermore, Stewart has said that the “CDHA urges the federal government to incorporate oral hygiene services into its standards for long-term care” [5]. The CDHA will hope that their recommendations are implemented.

The standards will now undergo a 60-day public review. Canadians are able to give their feedback on the standards on the Health Standards website – which you can access by clicking here. Then, the final version will be published later in 2022.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Do you have a family member or friend that are in a long-term care home? If so, access to oral healthcare can be poor. Could you assist them in booking an appointment to get a check-up? This will have a positive impact on not only their oral health, but also their overall physical health.
  • 2) To improve your long-term oral health, it is important to regularly attend check-ups. This can help your overall health when you are older. We recommend that you attend a check-up once every six months. Consider booking one now – and you can check the current state of your oral health and get treatment if necessary.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides its patients with a warm welcome, a comfortable experience and advice 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. We also have some cosmetic treatments too!

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.

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

What Are the Warning Signs of Mouth Cancer That We Shouldn’t Ignore? - Savanna Dental
1Feb
Mouth cancer continues to be a big problem, with many people being affected by the condition each year. One of the biggest issues with treatment is when there is late detection of symptoms. Therefore, it is important to pay close attention to our oral health. This includes looking out for possible signs and symptoms, and regularly visiting a dentist to get professional advice.

Mouth cancer is a type of cancer which affects millions of people around the world each year. While recovery rates are strong, it can be life-threatening in many cases.

Many people focus on their physical health. It is common for oral health to be neglected. However, our oral health and physical health are intrinsically linked. Therefore, oral health needs to be valued highly.

It is important to pay close attention to our oral health. Crucially, there are some warning signs and symptoms that we can look out for, especially in terms of mouth cancer.

A dentist will be able to look out for any signs of mouth cancer, and offer practical advice where needed. This confirms again the importance of visiting a dentist for a regular check-up.

Background

Mouth cancer is also known as oral cancer. Surprisingly, it is a form of cancer that many are unaware of. Mouth cancer is actually the sixth most common form of cancer around the world [1].

One study found that 2.1% of cases of cancer were mouth cancer [2]. Moreover, the same study found that 145,000 patients around the world die each year of factors relating to mouth cancer [2].

The rates of mouth cancer have largely remained steady in recent years. However, lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol and obesity have all been linked with a rise in some parts of the world, including India [3].

Warning signs

There are warning signs that we can all look out for. For example, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) outline six potential warning signs and symptoms of mouth cancer [4]:

  • Painful mouth ulcers which last for several weeks
  • Unexplained lumps in the mouth or neck that do not go away
  • Loose teeth or sockets which do not heal, typically after a tooth extraction
  • Feeling of persistent numbness in the tongue of the mouth or lip
  • White or red patches in the lining of the mouth or tongue
  • Changes in speech, such as a lisp

It is important to mention that any of the above warning signs can be an issue, and should not be ignored. Equally, the above is not an exhaustive list of symptoms.

The problem of late detection

Mouth cancer is normally not deadly. The NHS suggests that when mouth cancer is diagnosed early, 9 in 10 people will be cured through surgery alone [4].

But this does show the importance of early detection. If the early warning signs of mouth cancer are missed, then the chances of recovery become poorer. If left untreated, symptoms will worsen, and will become more difficult to recover from.

In fact, the Mouth Cancer Foundation have said that most deaths from mouth cancer are due to late detection [5]. This is “due to a low public awareness of the signs, symptoms and risks” [5].

Preventing mouth cancer

Because of the importance of early detection, it is crucial to see your dentist regularly. By visiting the dentist, any potential signs of mouth cancer can be picked up on. If there are problems, then treatment can begin quickly.

The useful thing about seeing the dentist is that they can provide a comprehensive check on a person’s oral health. Not only will they look out for cavities, plaque and gum health, but they will also look for signs of mouth cancer and similar ailments.

At the very least, if you come across some of the above symptoms, you should not delay in seeing a dental professional. Some people can be reluctant to see a dentist because of the costs involved, but this can be a life-or-death situation.

Aside from attending regular dental check-ups, there are other ways of aiding the prevention of oral cancer. This includes not smoking, lowering alcohol consumption, and eating a healthy diet which includes plenty of fruit and vegetables [4].

Mouth cancer can affect anyone, at any time. Staying alert is important, and having excellent dental hygiene can help towards strong oral health. Looking out for the warning signs discussed above is very important. Overall, it is important to value our oral health, and do what we can to prevent mouth-related conditions from arising.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Were you aware of any of the warning signs? Are you, or anyone in your family, affected by these symptoms? If so, it is crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible! A lot of the time, it won’t be anything to worry about, but it is important to seek professional advice and treatment.
  • 2) This article shows the importance of attending the dentist on a regular basis. Are you due a check-up? If so, we recommend booking an appointment soon! By seeing a dentist, they will be able to check the overall state of your oral health, and offer recommendations where necessary.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides its patients with a warm welcome, a comfortable experience and advice 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. We also have some cosmetic treatments too!

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.

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

Does Praising Children on Brushing Their Teeth Have a Positive Effect on Their Oral Health? - Taradale Dental
20Dec
A new study has found that there are significant benefits derived from parents congratulating and praising their children’s tooth-brushing. As a result, the researchers have argued that parents should take more of an active role with their children’s oral health. Overall, this can help with strengthening the oral health of their children.

A study released by American researchers has found that when parents praise their children for and whilst brushing their teeth, that their oral health subsequently benefits.

The research analyzed how the actions of parents affected their children. There were interesting findings. As a result, there are many lessons to be learned.

Background

It is important for children to brush their teeth from a young age. By getting used to a toothbrush from a young age, it can instill good habits that can be lifelong [1]. As a result, they are likelier to enjoy lifelong strong oral health.

Past research has shown that it is crucial for parents to show interest in their children’s oral health [2]. Moreover, they should set a good example for their children by having strong oral hygiene themselves.

What the Research involved

The study was completed by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, Yale University and the Santa Fe Institute [3]. This triumvirate of institutions sought to analyze the daily toothbrushing habits of three year old’s.

The study involved 81 three year old’s who were learning to brush their teeth. The researchers wanted to include families from multiple demographics in order to get a broad picture of the situation. As a result, the participants came from many different ethnicities, American states and different social classes, which was judged by household income [3].

The data used in the study was collected over a 16-day period. In these 16 days, parents submitted videos of their children’s nightly toothbrushing. Parents were instructed to let their child brush their teeth themselves [3].

When reviewing the footage, researchers looked at the persistence of the child, and any talk from parents. Moreover, the researchers looked especially for any praise that the parent was giving their child [3].

Finally, parents also completed daily surveys throughout the 16 days. This survey asked the parents to self-assess their stress levels, how their child was sleeping (including the duration), and how their child’s mood was [3].

The Results

The researchers were able to make a number of conclusions from the study. Firstly, they found that the persistence of children in brushing their teeth fluctuated from day-to-day [3].

Most interestingly, those that received praise from their parents were more likely to brush their teeth for longer, and show improved moods [3]. Therefore, it becomes clear that praising a child while they are brushing their teeth is very helpful.

For parents that gave less or infrequent praise to their children, it correlated with shorter toothbrushing times. Also, in what may be unrelated, these children typically had less or more interrupted sleep [3].

What this means

Perhaps the most important finding from this study is that parents have a very important role to play in their children’s oral health. Specifically, praising children whilst they brush their teeth is important.

The researchers found that praise such as “good job”, “good girl/boy” and “very good” were all very helpful [3]. Any sort of praise seems to be helpful.

The authors did point out that there were some limitations with their study. For instance, the authors stated it didn’t give a worldwide view. Instead, it had a western slant. Moreover, the authors acknowledged that further studies were needed to confirm their findings. For instance, a bigger sample size could be helpful.

Allyson Mackey is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania. She commented on the findings [4]. Mackey said that “fluctuations in parent praise relate to fluctuations in child persistence” [4]. Mackey remarked that this clearly showed the importance of parental praise of children while toothbrushing.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Have you got a young child? If so, there is a lot to learn from this study. For instance, think to yourself, do you praise them while they brush their teeth? If not, this study shows it could be very beneficial!
  • 2) Remember that as a child grows up, including in their teenage years, parents should always show an interest in the oral health and brushing habits of their children. This isn’t something that should stop after a few years.
  • 3) There is a lot of research that shows it is important for adults to set a good example to their children when it comes to oral health. This includes going for regular check-ups yourself, looking after your own teeth, and attending the dentist with children when they have a check-up. With this in mind, have you scheduled your next dental 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 warm welcome, a comfortable experience and advice 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. We also have some cosmetic treatments too!

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

  • [1] Atarbashi-Moghadam, F., & Atarbashi-Moghadam, S. (2018). Tooth Brushing in Children. Journal of Dental Materials and Techniques. 7 (4): p181-184.
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