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Category: Dental Care

Singh Continues Ndp’s Pledge to Subsidize Dental Costs, but Will It Work?
27Sep
The NDP’s leader Jagmeet Singh has said that his party will continue their pledge towards subsidizing dental costs for those without insurance. This long-running idea continues to enjoy support, though it has also caused many questions, mainly around the source of the money needed for such a program.

Ahead of the 2021 Canadian Federal Election, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh stated that his party would implement a federal program aimed at lowering dental costs.

The federal program would be based around subsidizing dentistry costs for Canadian citizens without insurance. This is an important issue, as a sizeable number of Canadians do not have insurance.

Singh referred to oral health a one of Canada’s “biggest divides” because of how those with limited income were being “left high and dry” in the current situation [1]. Having a healthy income is something that obviously isn’t applicable to everyone.

The NDP and Dental Care

The NDP have gradually grown in popularity in recent years. Dental care reform has been a consistent area that they have focused on.

They made a pledge ahead of the 2019 election which involved providing free dental care to low-income individuals [2]. This plan was then developed and altered ready for the 2021 election.

The 2021 plan formed part of the NDP’s election pledge. Singh said that anyone that received under $90,000 per year would benefit from his plan.

Those earning between $60,000 and $90,000 per year would have part of their dental expenses covered. Moreover, those that earn below $60,000 would be fully covered in the plan [1].

As part of their calculations, the NDP estimated that 6.5million Canadians would benefit from their program. As a result of the plan, the average family would save $1,200 in dental fees each year [1].

Could the NDP’s plan work?

The NDP’s idea has already had its validity studied. A 2020 report by the Parliamentary Budget Office estimated an upfront cost of $3billion for the Government [3]. Furthermore, this would be followed with a $1.5billion cost per year [3].

Some have asked where the money needed for this program would come from. Singh has said that the NDP would fund the program by introducing a 1% tax on households with wealth of over $10million.

The NDP’s plan would address long-term problems in the dental industry of Canada. Research shows that in a 12-month period, just 75% of Canadians visited a dentist, with 23% being put off from visiting a dental clinic due to cost [4].

However, Singh’s plan hasn’t been popular with fellow parties. In June, a motion put forward by the NDP relating to dental costs was voted down in the House of Commons [5]. Similar results may also follow.

Will the NDP keep this policy for the future?

It is likely that the NDP will continue this policy in upcoming elections because of its popularity among voters, many of whom would benefit from this program.

The 2021 election policy included slight modifications on the 2019 policy. Moreover, we can expect another slight alteration by the time of the next federal election, scheduled for October 2025 at the latest.

The NDP have been enjoying an uplift in support over recent years, and will hope that by the next election, that they will be able to challenge for more seats. Dental care is likely to continue to be an important part in the NDP’s overall policies.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We offer our patients a warm welcome, a comfortable experience and advice whenever needed.

We always recommend that our patients visit our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for an important regular dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments, for instance cavity fillings and root canals, that can effectively restore oral health.

Above all, we recommend brushing our 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 dental clinic in Calgary Savanna Dental! You can read more about us by visiting our website https://savannadental.ca.

Calgary Children’s Dental Health Is Worsening Without Water Fluoridation, Study Finds - Savanna Dental
6Sep
A recent study has found that the dental health of children in Calgary has worsened since water fluoridation was stopped in 2011. The study compared statistics of dental health in Calgary compared to Edmonton, where water fluoridation remains. Dental health is better in Edmonton, suggesting children in Calgary are at higher risk of tooth decay.

Recent research has found that the oral health of children in Calgary has worsened in recent years when compared to the city of Edmonton. This worsening of oral health has been attributed to Calgary’s lack of water fluoridation, a practice that remains in use in Edmonton.

The findings of the research may reopen the debate about water fluoridation. The results are rather worrying. As a result, parents in Calgary are being urged to take extra care in looking after their children’s oral health.

What is water fluoridation?

Fluoride is a natural mineral, and is a crucial part of modern-day dentistry. It can be found in toothpaste, mouthwash and some foods.

Fluoride (in small concentrations) is added to the public water supply in many countries. As a result, this practice has caused controversy.

Many have suggested that water fluoridation is ethically wrong and poses public health dangers. Because of concerns over excessive fluoride intake and related toxicity, some countries have banned fluoridation [1]. Too much fluoride can cause fluorosis, which can result in dark marks appearing on the teeth.

However, research is mainly positive about water fluoridation. Fluoride helps to protect our teeth from bacteria and sugar. Research shows that water fluoridation is effective for protecting the teeth of children, but effectiveness for adults is undetermined [2].

A major study in the United Kingdom found water fluoridation was highly-effective for children. It was linked to a decrease in decayed, missing and filled deciduous teeth [3].

Water fluoridation in Alberta

The practice of adding fluoride to public drinking water has existed since the 1940s. The intention is to improve dental health.

Across the province of Alberta, different opinions exist. Edmonton has used water fluoridation ever since 1967. In Calgary, water fluoridation began in 1991, but stopped in 2011.

The city of Calgary made the decision to stop water fluoridation because of economic and ethical concerns. Council members stated there wasn’t enough evidence to justify water fluoridation. However, the council did not consult an expert panel [4].

The Study

Researchers from the University of Calgary conducted a study that compared dental health in Grade 2 children from Edmonton and Calgary. The study will be published in the Journal of Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology [5].

The researchers compared dental records data of 5,000 students in both cities between the 2004/05 and 2013/14 school years [5]. This allowed the researchers to use those born both before and after fluoride cessation.

The results showed that tooth decay has increased far more in Calgary since water fluoridation was stopped, when compared to Edmonton. Edmonton’s scores had also worsened, but not on the same level as Calgary.

Tooth decay can result in pain for the child. Its typically leads to treatment being required, for instance, a cavity filling. As a result, it may also cause poor oral hygiene that leads to problems in later life.

The number of tooth surfaces with decay per child increased by 3.8 surfaces in Calgary between 2004/05 and 2013/14. In Edmonton, the increase was 2.1 surfaces per child [5]. Researchers said that each tooth has 4-5 surfaces.

The researchers suggested that such a difference was significant. They pointed to the lack of water fluoridation in Calgary as having caused this [5]. The study concluded that water fluoridation was a public health benefit [5].

What does this study mean?

The conclusions from this study appear to suggest that there are many health benefits to water fluoridation.

Alberta’s Health Minister Tyler Shandro has confirmed that their office will be reviewing the results of the study [6]. The study’s authors stated that it will be crucial to monitor future statistics and trends [5].

In the absence of water fluoridation in Calgary, it is highly important for Calgary residents to prioritise excellent oral hygiene. This is especially the case for children, who benefit the most from water fluoridation.

Parents in Calgary should provide a balanced diet. They should also limit their children’s sugar intake and ensure they brush their teeth at least twice a day. Using a fluoride-based toothpaste is important. Using the tooth fairy can incentivize children to have excellent oral hygiene (click here to know more). Attending regular check-ups is also vital.

What we can offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We offer many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals and some cosmetic services like tooth whitening.

Any dental problem must be addressed early and can be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem getting more severe. So, if further treatment is needed after a routine check-up, we give our patients with 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.

If you ever need any dental advice, our team at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental will be happy to assist. This can include advice on treating bad breath, reviewing how your diet affects your oral health, and any other dentistry-related guidance.

Our Calgary-based dental practice Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.

Summary

The results of the study show that water fluoridation can be beneficial. Water is not fluoridated in Calgary, so we need to take extra care with our oral hygiene routine. This is especially important for those with children.

We hope that you visit our Calgary-based dental clinic soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website, https://savannadentalclinic.ca. We hope to see you soon!

  • [1] Aoun, A., Darwiche, F., Al Hayek, S., & Doumit, J. (2018). The Fluoride Debate: The Pros and Cons of Fluoridation. Preventive Nutrition and Food Science. 23(3), p171–180.
  • [2] Parnell, C., Whelton, H., & O’Mullane, D. (2009). Water fluoridation. European Archives of Paediatric Dentistry. 10(3), p141–148.
  • [3] Treasure, E., Chestnutt, I., Whiting, P., McDonagh, M., Wilson, P., & Kleijnen, J. (2002). The York Review – A systematic review of public water fluoridation: a commentary. British Dental Journal. 192(1), p495–497.
  • [4] O’Neill, B., Kapoor, T., & McLaren, L. (2018). Politics, Science, and Termination: A Case Study of Water Fluoridation Policy in Calgary in 2011. Review of Policy Research. 36(1), p99-120.
  • [5] McLaren, L., Patterson, S. K., Faris, P., Chen, G., Thawer, S., Figueiredo, R., Weijs, C., McNeil, D., Waye, A., & Potestio, M. (2021). Fluoridation cessation and children’s dental caries: A 7-year follow-up evaluation of Grade 2 schoolchildren in Calgary and Edmonton, Canada. Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology. (Pre-publication issue): https://doi.org/10.1111/cdoe.12685.
  • [6] CTV.ca News Staff. (2011). Calgary council votes to stop fluoridating city water. Available: https://www.ctvnews.ca/calgary-council-votes-to-stop-fluoridating-city-water-1.605786. Last accessed: 4th September 2021.
The Importance of the Tooth Fairy for Children’s Oral - Savanna Dental
30Aug
The Tooth Fairy has been an important part of the overall approach to children’s oral health for a long time. The evidence suggests the existence of the tooth fairy has a positive effect on children’s teeth. This can build a foundation for long-term strong oral hygiene.

National Tooth Fairy Day was celebrated on August 20th, with the day an opportunity to emphasise the role that the tooth fairy can have in improving the oral health of children.

The oral health of children is important. Good oral hygiene as a child should increase the chances of them growing up and continuing to exhibit excellent hygiene. This can have significant dental and health benefits.

About the tooth fairy

The origin of the tooth fairy dates back to earlier centuries in Europe. The tradition has since continued, and made it to North America [1].

Tooth fairy visits are an exciting prospect for children. The process starts when a child loses one of their deciduous/milk teeth.

The child will place the lost tooth under their pillow before going to sleep. When they wake up, money is usually there. This process continues every time that a child loses a tooth.

The tooth fairy can therefore act as a way of incentivizing strong oral hygiene for children. Moreover, the tooth fairy shows children how important oral health is.

The Tooth Fairy and Children’s teeth

Across the world, children’s teeth are decaying more than ever before. For example, in London, England, statistics show that by the time children reach the age of 5, over a quarter are suffering from tooth decay [2].

Delta Dental’s 2020 State of America’s Oral Health Report [3] had many findings. 72% of parents surveyed say they struggle to get their child to brush their teeth [3]. 75% of parents admitted their child’s oral health could be better [3].

Barriers do exist. The same report found that 52% of parents believed brushing teeth took time away from things their child would rather do. 44% of parents said their child thought brushing their teeth was boring. 31% of parents suggested their child didn’t like the taste of toothpaste.

Dental visits for preventive care for children dropped from 89% in 2019 to 81% in 2020 [3]. This drop is surely due to the effects of Covid-19. Even so, the above means that some children only visit the dentist for reactive care, such as when they are in a dental emergency.

The above underlines the importance of parents using the tooth fairy as a motivating factor for children to clean their teeth. The tooth fairy is an effective way of improving their child’s oral health.

Parents were asked why they introduced their children to the tooth fairy. The most common responses were giving the child something to be excited about, celebrate something fun, and making their child feel special [3].

Interestingly, statistics show that the average monetary gift from the tooth fairy was $4.70USD in 2020, equivalent to $5.90CAD [4]. This figure has more than doubled in the last decade!

What parents can do

Parents have an important role to play in their child’s oral health. Providing a balanced diet, limiting sugar intake, and encouraging them to brush their teeth is very important.

Brushing teeth together, attending dental appointments, and telling children from an early age about the tooth fairy are other things that can help. Some say that the tooth fairy is watching their child to ensure they brush their teeth properly.

What we can offer at Savanna Dental

At Savanna Dental, we provide our patients with many different services and treatments. We ensure that our patients receive a comfortable and caring experience when visiting us.

Our dental clinic is based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We offer services like regular check-ups, cavity fillings, dentures, root canals, and some cosmetic services such as tooth whitening.

It is very important for dental problems to be addressed early. They can be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem getting more severe.

If further treatment is needed after a routine check-up, we provide our patients with a clear treatment plan.

Our Calgary-based dental practice Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which means our prices are competitive, transparent, and affordable.

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.

If you ever need any dental advice, our team at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental will be happy to assist. This can include advice on treating bad breath, reviewing how your diet affects your oral health, and any other dentistry-related guidance.

Summary

The tooth fairy is definitely something that has a positive impact on children. By instilling good oral hygiene at a young age, a child will grow up knowing the importance of their oral health. This can continue into adulthood.

We hope that you visit our Calgary-based dental clinic soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca. We hope to see you soon!

The effect of sugar on dental health - Savanna Dental
23Aug
Everyone is aware of the link between sugary food and drink and poor dental health. Most of us know that our oral health could improve by cutting down on our sugar intake. Yet it isn’t simple to cut out sugar, and those who do so face potential withdrawal-like symptoms.

Consumption of sugary food and drink is one of the main causes of tooth decay and poor oral health. It is also linked to rising obesity levels. Cutting down on sugar can be highly beneficial to oral health. However, research shows that giving up sugar isn’t an easy achievement.

The effect of sugar on dental health

Sugar is very bad for our teeth. Once consumed, it combines with bacteria to create acid, which then gradually dissolves enamel, eventually creating cavities that need to be filled.

The link between sugar and poor dental health is clear. Studies show a direct link between the level of sugar consumed and the number of decayed, missing or filled teeth [1].

Moreover, sugar doesn’t just negatively affect adult teeth. Statistics show that tooth decay is the leading cause for hospitalisation for 5-9 year olds in the United Kingdom [2]. This summarises the impact sugar can have even on deciduous teeth.

Surprisingly, sugar intake has actually decreased over the past decade in western nations [3], presumably due to the recent emphasis on healthy diets like keto and veganism.

However sugary foods and drink are everywhere. Many people do not realise that some everyday foods like cereal and yoghurts can be high in sugar. Even products marked as “diet” or “no added sugar” can be bad for our teeth and weight [4].

Furthermore, artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose and stevia can still be harmful. Just because they are low-calorie, it doesn’t mean they have no impact on teeth.

What happens when we quit sugar

Quitting sugar, whether this is done gradually or by going cold turkey, can result in psychological and physical effects.

There has been a lot of research on whether or not we can become “addicted” to sugar. However, results remain inconclusive [5].

This is particularly the case with sugar-sweetened beverages, like Coca-Cola or Pepsi [6]. These drinks typically include caffeine and sugar, with caffeine known to cause withdrawal symptoms [7].

Quitting sugar can cause withdrawal-like symptoms. Physical symptoms include headaches, fatigue and even mood changes. Psychological symptoms include cravings, sleep disturbances and symptoms of depression and anxiety [8].

Sugar affects the brain’s reward system. Consumption of sugar results in the desire to consume more sugar, as it produces the brain’s feel-good chemical dopamine.

Cutting down on sugar

As part of eating a balanced and nutritious diet, we should attempt to only consume a small amount of sugary foods and drink.

When we do consume something sugary, it is a good idea to rinse your mouth with water soon after, as this can help to stabilise acid levels in the mouth.

Cutting down gradually is a better idea than adopting a “cold turkey” approach of radically changing diet. This is because the unpleasant symptoms outlined above may be onset by a sudden change.

Trying to find substitutes for sweet food and drink is a good method for cutting out sugar. For instance, swapping fizzy drinks for water of flavoured water. Having a dessert every other day instead of each day is another measure.

Eating filling yet nutritious food should also aid against cravings. Foods like vegetables, eggs or nuts can help. Some people find that using a fasting diet, such as intermittent fasting can help.

Many people find that chewing sugarfree gum is a good way of easing temptations. Sugarfree gum does have dental benefits, as it can help to regulate the pH levels of saliva in the mouth [9].

Ultimately, like with any attempt at change in life, consistency is key. Coping with the first few weeks will be difficult, but the health benefits will make this worthwhile. You can expect to see a strong improvement in the long-term.

What we can offer at Savanna Dental

At Savanna Dental, we offer our patients a wide range of services and treatments. We ensure that our patients receive a comfortable and caring experience when visiting us.

Our dental clinic is based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We offer services like regular check-ups, cavity fillings, dentures, root canals, and some cosmetic services such as tooth whitening.

It is vital for any dental problems to be addressed early. They can be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem worsening over time.

If further treatment is required after a check-up, we provide our patients with a clear treatment plan.

Our Calgary based dental practice Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.

The best way to avoid needing extra treatment is to have excellent 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.

If you need dental advice, our team at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental will be happy to assist. This can include advice on treating bad breath, reviewing how your diet effects your oral health, and any other dentistry-related guidance.

Summary

It is important to state that when consumed in moderation, sugar is okay. While it is a good idea to cut down on sugar, there is no reason for it to be entirely withdrawn from your diet. But consuming less sugar can be excellent for our oral health.

We hope you visit our Calgary-based dental clinic soon! You can find out more about us at our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca, and see why our patients love us. We hope to see you soon!

  • [1] Battellino, L. J., Corneho, L. S., Dorronsoro de Cattoni, S. T., Luna Maldonado de Yankilevich, E. R., Calamari, S. E., & Aczura, A. (1997). Oral health status evaluation of pre-school children: longitudinal epidemiologic study. (1993–1994). Revista de Saúde Pública. 31(1), p272-281.
  • [2]. Templeton, S. K. (2014). Rotten teeth put 26,000 children in hospital. Available: http://www.thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/news/uk_news/Health/Sugar/article1433860.ece?shareToken=6923b16557f4b254af8fa420378b6fc2. Last accessed: 22nd August 2021.
  • [3] Tedstone, A. (2020). New data reveals how our diets are changing over time. Available: https://publichealthmatters.blog.gov.uk/2020/12/21/new-data-reveals-how-our-diets-are-changing-over-time/. Last accessed: 21 August 2021.
  • [4] Te Morenga. (2013). Dietary sugars and body weight: systematic review and meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials and cohort studies. British Medical Journal. 346:e7492.
  • [5] Westwater, M. L., Fletcher, P. C., Ziauddeen, H. (2016). Sugar addiction: the state of the science. 55(1), p55-69.
  • [6] Falbe, J., Thompson, H. R., Patel, A., & Madsen, K. A. (2019). Potentially addictive properties of sugar-sweetened beverages among adolescents. Appetite. 133(1), p130-137.
  • [7] Jain, S., Srivastava, S. A., Verma, R. P., & Maggu, G. (2019). Caffeine addiction: Need for awareness and research and regulatory measures. Asian Journal of Psychiatry. 41(1), p73-75.
  • [8] Knuppel, A., Shipley, M. J., Llewellyn, C. H., & Brunner, E. J. (2017). Sugar intake from sweet food and beverages, common mental disorder and depression: prospective findings from the Whitehall II study. Scientifix Reports. 7, 6287.
  • [9] Newton, J. T., Awojobi, O., Nasseripour, M., Warburton, F., Di Giorgio, S., Gallagher, J. E., & Banerjee, A. (2019). A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Role of Sugar-Free Chewing Gum in Dental Caries. JDR Clinical & Translational Research. 5(3), p214-223.
TikTok Users Urged to Avoid Dangerous “Dental Hacks” Promoted on the App - Savanna Dental
15Aug
The social media platform TikTok is becoming increasingly popular, though dental professionals are warning users about “dental hacks” that are being promoted on the platform. Instead of being helpful, these “hacks” are actually dangerous, and can lead to long-term oral health problems.

The social media platform TikTok continues to grow in popularity, with its user base growing exponentially in recent months.

While much of the content on TikTok is light-hearted, comedic or heart-warming, there is also a dark side to the platform.

Recently, concerns have been raised over DIY “dental hacks” that have been circulating on TikTok. These “hacks” address issues such as trying to whiten teeth, remove gaps between teeth, and even attempts to fix uneven teeth.

These are all problems that can only be properly addressed by a dental professional. However, with many users actively trying out these techniques, it seems there is a general lack of awareness of the damage such “hacks” can do.

Now, due to a surge in interest in these videos, oral health professionals are warning that impressionable youngsters, and even adults, are at risk of doing more harm than good to their oral health, should they engage in some of these “hacks”.

What is TikTok?

For those that aren’t aware, TikTok is a social media platform – primarily used as an app on a smartphone – that lets its users upload short videos, which are then liked, commented on and shared by its users.

In 2020 alone, the app was downloaded more than 315 million times, while other statistics show that there are over 65million monthly TikTok users in the US alone [1].

The platform has proven to be most popular with teenagers, however the app has done harm, as well as good. Social media has been criticised for promoting unrealistic body types, and TikTok appears to have negatively affected the self-esteem and mental wellbeing of many teenagers [2].

Due to the supposed importance of achieving a “perfect” body image (including the appearance of teeth), many resort to trying dangerous things to try and attain such looks. As the 11-19 age range typically doesn’t have the money needed to get professional treatment, they resort to “hacks” to try and get the same result.

The “Dental Hacks”

TikTok is full of what is referred to as “dental hacks”. A simple search of that term brings up thousands of videos, many of which show actions that promise to address tooth problems, but that actually risk serious harm.

These “hacks” are produced by users that are far from dental professionals. Rather, they are unlicensed, everyday people, whose impressionable “followers” then copy them.

These users provide “advice” or “guidance” to users, whilst promising excellent results in terms of the appearance of their teeth. But in actual fact, these “hacks” are dangerous.

Among the “dental hacks” that have gained the most interest are:

• Teeth whitening through peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide has long been linked with improving the color of our teeth [3]. However, hydrogen peroxide is mainly used as a bleaching agent, as an antiseptic or disinfectant, and in fertilisers. When hydrogen peroxide comes into contact with the mouth, it irritates the gums, and can make our teeth more sensitive. Worryingly, the most viewed videos show users mixing 3% hydrogen peroxide with water. To put this into perspective, in the United Kingdom, the legal limit of over-the-counter solutions of hydrogen peroxide is 0.1%. Solutions of 3% hydrogen peroxide are incredibly strong, and can cause serious damage to the teeth and gums. Other tooth whitening “hacks” seen on TikTok include brushing teeth with bleach or even using Mr. Clean Magic Eraser sponges – which contain harmful chemicals. – on the teeth.

• Nail filing teeth: One of the most concerning trends on TikTok shows various users using a nail file to even out their teeth, This is done in an apparent effort to make their teeth look straighter. Worryingly, teeth will not grow back after being filed. A nail file should never be used on teeth, as it can introduce harmful bacteria to the mouth. Furthermore, it is known to damage enamel, which is what protects our teeth from pain, cavities and discoloration [4]. Consistent use of a nail file will expose the nerve of the tooth, which can cause excruciating pain and long-term damage.

• Closing gaps between the teeth: Another popular video shows a user displaying how she was supposedly able to close a gap between her two front teeth. She apparently used rubber bands to push her teeth together. But this is actually a dangerous thing to do, with again this trend risking damage to the mouth, with the bones around the teeth becoming impacted by such actions.

• Plaque scraping: Whenever a person visits the dentist, one of the most common things that a dentist will do is use a plaque scraper – also known as a dental scaler – in order to remove plaque and tartar from teeth. Removing plaque helps to stop tooth decay and improves the health of gums. However, plaque scraping is not something that should be done at home, rather, it should only be done in the confines of a dental clinic by qualified staff. It takes proper training to know how to use these scrapers properly, something that is taught at dental school. They are sharp tools, and incorrect use can result in permanent damage to the gum tissue, or trauma to the cheeks or tongue.

• Flossing with hair: While flossing is an important part of good oral hygiene, flossing appliances are specifically designed in order to achieve their goal of getting rid of plaque between teeth. While some may argue that hair works just as well for flossing, it is actually very risky, as it can cause trauma to the mouth, or irritate the gums.

Dental professionals’ warning

Understandably, the rise in interest in these trends have concerned oral professionals, who face having to treat those who have affected their oral health as a result of engaging in such trends.

Dr. Amber Bonnaig, of DentaQuest, is among those to be concerned. She has stated that the “makeshift dental hacks are really concerning and send the exact wrong message to kids about how to care for your teeth” [5].

Bonnaig goes on to say that “performing your own dental treatments – particularly like some of these TikTok videos – can cause significant, long-lasting damage to your mouth and teeth, as well as your overall health” [5].

Meanwhile, the Oral Health Foundation released a statement a few months ago where they mentioned that they were “extremely concerned” for the health and safety of TikTok users, due to the high amount of DIY dental advice on the app [6].

What can parents do?

It is important for parents to maintain regular communication with their children, especially as they navigate through their teenage years, where they are very impressionable, and vulnerable to outside influence.

Ultimately, safe “dental hacks” don’t exist. The only way to truly protect our teeth and maintain strong oral health is to engage in excellent 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.

It is important for any potential oral problems to be addressed early. By attending regular check-ups, any oral problems can be addressed quickly. This helps to prevent more intense pain later on, if any dental problems are left untreated.

Parents can help their children to avoid such “hacks” by promoting oral hygiene from a young age, and discussing such “hacks” with their children, and educating them on the consequences of such trends.

What we can offer at Savanna Dental

At Savanna Dental, we offer our patients a wide range of services and treatments, allowing us to treat a plethora of dental conditions. We do our utmost to ensure that our patients receive a comfortable and caring experience when visiting us.

Our dental clinic is based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We offer services like regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals, dentures, and even some cosmetic services such as tooth whitening.

Following a routine check-up, if further treatment is required, we provide our patients with a clear treatment plan, and give them a voice in any decisions made.

Our Calgary based dental practice Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.

If you need dental advice, our team at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental will be able to help. This can include advice on treating bad breath, gum disease, the effect our diet has on our oral health, and any other dentistry-related guidance.

Each of the videos outlined above promise to treat common “problems”, only without the hefty price tag. But as we have shown in this article, these “dental hacks” can cause significant harm.

In fact, all of the areas outlined do have fixes. For instance, tooth whitening is a cosmetic form of dentistry that people can purchase, while instead of filing teeth to make them appear straighter, braces or even veneers can produce the same effect, only that they are also far safer.

If anything does go wrong, a qualified dental professional will be able to step in and help – something that will not be the case when a person becomes involved in a dental emergency at their home.

Summary

DIY “dental hacks” are nothing new, and everyone in dentistry is well aware of how the prices of treatment can put people off – which unfortunately makes these low-cost hacks all the more appealing.

However, they can do serious damage, and it is always best to leave any oral treatment to dental professionals, who have gone through significant training in order to effectively treat dental problems.

Whether it is for a regular check-up, advice or treatment, we hope you visit our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental! You can read more about us on our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca, and see more about what we offer our patients. We would love to see you visit our clinic soon!

Study Finds That Self-care Exercises Are Highly Effective for Facial Pain - Savanna Dental
8Aug
Most cases of facial pain result in patients using oral appliances such as splints and bite guards as a means of controlling pain. For a long time, oral appliances have been seen as the most effective method to treat facial pain. However, new research suggests that actually, self-care techniques are most effective at treating facial pain.

Facial pain, whether it be dental-related, jaw-related or trauma-related, is a difficult thing to live with. Anyone who has gone through a period of facial pain will know that recovery can be slow.

Facial pain, especially for dental and jaw pain, is usually caused by a Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), which are a group of related conditions that cause discomfort.

Over the years, various treatments have been put forward as being effective for facial pain, though there has never been a clear consensus on how facial pain is best treated.

A study however has found that self-care exercises have the potential to be much more effective than more conventional interventions, such as splints and bite guards.

What is a TMJ?

As mentioned above, a TMJ disorder is a group of conditions that are related to the temporomandibular joint – which is the joint of the jaw – and the surrounding muscles.

To be precise, the TMJ’s are the joints that are located in front of each ear, which connects the lower jaw bone to the skill.

When thinking about joints, most people think of the knees, fingers, elbows and wrists. But arguably one of the most important joints – the jaw – is often forgotten, despite its importance, given that it helps us to eat, talk and breathe [1].

It is very difficult to say how many people have a TMJ disorder, but research suggests that approximately 12% of people in USA experience a TMJ disorder at any one time [2].

A TMJ disorder is more common in women than men, and unlike most chronic pain conditions, TMJ disorders often affect younger people as much as the elderly [2].

The typical symptoms of a TMJ disorder include jaw clicks, pain, limited mobility, difficulty in opening the mouth, poor sleep, headaches and earache [3].

TMJ disorders have also been associated with increased depression, anxiety and stress [4], and are therefore conditions which have a marked effect on quality of life.

In terms of treatment, long-held views suggest that splints and bite guards should be the first line of treatment. Other common treatments include painkiller medications, ranging from mild analgesics to powerful opioids, anti-inflammatory drugs and self-care methods such as jaw exercises and warm compresses.

The Research

The study took place in 2019, and was organised and carried out by researchers at the NYU College of Dentistry, before being spublished in the Journal of Clinical Oral Investigations [5].

The study involved researchers looking at how women with a TMJ disorder treated their pain, and how effective each treatment was [5].

The study involved 125 women. Most participants used more than one treatment, with an average of 2.4 treatments per participant. The researchers found that the most common treatments were [5]:

• Oral appliances e.g., splints, bite guards etc (used by 59% of participants)

• Physical therapy (54%)

• Home-based jaw exercises (34%)

• Acupuncture (20%)

• Visiting a chiropractor (18%)

• Injection at site of trigger point (14%)

• Exercise (7%)

• Meditation and deep breathing (6%)

The researchers then asked each participant how well each treatment had worked for them, in terms of easing their pain and overall wellbeing.

In a surprise result, self-care activities like jaw exercises, meditation and warm compresses were found to provide the biggest improvement in symptoms of pain, with 84% of participants stating that these activities helped ease their pain [5].

On the other hand, 64% of those who had used the oral appliances – the most common treatment – said they had been helpful, amounting to a significantly less amount than the self-care activities [5].

11% of those who used oral appliances suggested that they actually made their pain worse. Other treatment methods like acupuncture, chiropractor and injections did not score highly in easing pain.

The results of the study suggest that instead of using oral appliances, or reaching straight for the medicine cupboard, those who are suffering from facial pain should engage in self-care techniques and exercises.

The study’s implication for dentistry

Facial and jaw pain is common in dentistry. Gum disease can cause inflammation, while infections or general toothache can cause pain in the jaw muscles, and face in general.

Therefore, these results suggest that we shouldn’t automatically use oral appliances to treat such problems. Instead, self-care techniques such as jaw exercises, meditation and warm compresses can be used, as they appear to be much more effective, and less risky.

TMJ disorders are usually diagnosed and treated by a dentist. Most dentists will recommend oral appliances for treating TMJ disorders, but these results suggest this is not the right approach.

Of course, the best way to avoid needing to treat facial pain is to practice excellent oral hygiene, and visiting the dentist for a check-up at least twice a year. By getting checked regularly, any oral problems can be addressed quickly. This helps to prevent more intense pain later on, if any dental problems are left untreated.

Excellent oral hygiene involves brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and as above, getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink, and not smoking also helps.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

At Savanna Dental, we offer our patients many services, allowing us to treat a range of dental conditions. We ensure our patients receive a comfortable and caring experience when visiting us.

Our dental clinic is based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We offer services like regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals, dentures, and some cosmetic services such as tooth whitening.

If further treatment is required after a routine dental check-up, our patients are provided with a clear treatment plan.

Our Calgary based dental practice Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.

If you need dental advice, our team at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental will be able to help. This can include advice on treating bad breath, gum disease, the effect our diet has on our oral health, and any other dentistry-related guidance.

Summary

With facial pain being very common, the findings of this study are very important. We now know the value of self-care exercises. It seems that using self-care techniques such as jaw exercises, meditation and warm compresses can be highly effective in treating pain.

We would love you to visit our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental! You can also read more about us on our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca and see more about what we offer our patients. We hope to see you soon!

  • [1] National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2020). Temporomandibular Disorders: Priorities for Research and Care. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/25652.
  • [2] The TMJ Association. (2021). TMJ Basics. Available: https://tmj.org/living-with-tmj/basics/. Last accessed 6th August 2021.
  • [3] Llodra-Calvom, J. C., Carlos, J., Bravo-Perez, M., & Cortés-Martinicorena, F. J. (2002). Encuesta de Salud Oral En Espana. RCOE. 7(1), p19-63.
  • [4] Kmeid, E., Nacouzi, M., Hallit, S., & Rohayem, Z. (2020). Prevalence of temporomandibular joint disorder in the Lebanese population, and its association with depression, anxiety, and stress. Head & Face Medicine, 16(1), p19-37.
  • [5] Santiago, V., Raphael, K. G. (2019). Perceived helpfulness of treatments for myofascial TMD as a function of comorbid widespread pain. Clinical Oral Investigations. 23(1), p2929-2939.