Category: Dental Care

Artificial intelligence is making a big impact on the world, and the world of dentistry is benefiting too. New research has found that it could be possible to accurately predict among people with dental implants who can recover from peri-implantitis, which is a common issue for those with dental implants.

Dental implants are a popular dentistry treatment that involves using a natural-feeling and looking tooth to replace a lost or damaged tooth.

For those who have lost or missing teeth, implants can be a fantastic solution. But despite being intended to last long-term, many implants do not.

One of the main causes of this is peri-implantitis. This is an inflammatory process that results in eventual loss of dental implants. However, it is not always clear who can recover from peri-implantitis.

But now, recent research has yielded an algorithm named FARDEEP. FARDEEP seems to be able to help predict treatment outcomes for peri-implantitis. FARDEEP is an example of artificial intelligence, and could help to make dental implants far more successful.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are typically used to replace a lost or missing tooth. They are usually needed because of advanced gum disease or extreme tooth decay.

Implants are meant to last for a long time. However, studies have found mixed results. For example, there is a 90-95% success rate over 10 years for dental implants [1].

Implants are practical, offer aesthetic and functional tooth replacements. But, peri-implantitis is a common cause of dental implants not working properly.

A recent study found that a process called “biofouling” could help to prolong the life of implants [2](click here to know more). Now, it appears that artificial intelligence will also help dental implants to be more effective.

What is peri-implantitis?

Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory process that causes the tissue and bone around dental implants to become infected. Peri-implantitis can be very damaging to overall oral health. For instance, progressive bone loss, bleeding, pus and eventual loss of the implant are potential consequences [3].

Consequently, it becomes difficult to then put a new implant in place due to the poor bone quality around the area.

The causes of peri-implantitis aren’t always clear. Patients who smoke or have a history of periodontal disease are at higher risk of developing the condition [4].

Treating peri-implantitis is difficult and unpredictable. Reconstructive therapy is currently the treatment used. However, it is not always successful. Moreover, it is both expensive and time-consuming.

Because of the impact of peri-implantitis, and its poor treatment outcomes, researchers have been searching for ways of better predicting the effectiveness of treatment for each individual patient.

What is FARDEEP?

A team of researchers led by the University of Michigan School of Dentistry have been able to develop a machine-learning algorithm. They believe this can help to predict who will be able to recover from peri-implantitis, and who can’t [5].

FARDEEP is an example of the use of artificial intelligence in dentistry. FARDEEP stands for Fast and Robust Deconvolution of Expression Profiles.

In order to develop the algorithm, the researchers analyzed tissue samples from a group of patients that were receiving reconstructive therapy for peri-implantitis [5]. Furthermore, they then looked at how much harmful bacteria and infection-fighting immune cells were available in each sample [5].

Using this information, the researchers were then able to develop the algorithm. Overall, the researchers found that patients that had a high amount of immune cells were at lower risk of periodontal disease [5]. As a result, this means that they are likelier to have success with treatment.

In the long-term, the researchers are hoping that they will be able to use this algorithm across dentistry to help those with peri-implantitis. As a result, it should mean that dental implants can become longer-lasting, and more effective.

What this means for dental implants

The algorithm has a potential to have a big impact on dentistry. Jeff Wang, a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan, spoke about his hopes. He declared that the algorithm could help to “determine the best course of treatment” for peri-implantitis [3].

He said that this would typically involve either going through reconstructive therapy, or replacing an old implant with a new one [3]. Wang said that in the future, it could be possible to predict the risk posed by peri-implantitis before a dental implant is placed [3].

Wang cautioned that human clinical trials will be needed before FARDEEP could be used by clinicians [3]. This will be a long process, but it could have a very positive impact if implemented in the future.

FARDEEP is the latest example of the use of artificial intelligence in dentistry. Data is being used in exciting ways. As seen in this study, scientists are predicting that an artificial intelligence-based care system will result in more informed and accurate/effective decision-making and a higher quality of care [6].

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.

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.

• [1] Raikar, S., Talukdar, P., Kumari, S., Kumar Panda, S., Oommen, V. M., & Prasad, A. (2017). Factors Affecting the Survival Rate of Dental Implants: A Retrospective Study. Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry. 7 (6), p351-355.
• [2] Lehnfeld, J., Dukashin, Y., Mark, J., White, G. D., Wu, S., Katzur, V., Muller, R., & Ruhl, S. (2021). Saliva and Serum Protein Adsorption on Chemically Modified Silica Surfaces. Journal of Dental Research. 100 (10): p1047-1054.
• [3] Bailey, L. (2021). AI helps predict treatment outcomes for patients with diseased dental implants. Available: https://news.umich.edu/ai-helps-predict-treatment-outcomes-for-patients-with-diseased-dental-implants/. Last accessed: 5th November 2021.
• [4] Roos-Jansaker, A. M. (2007). Long time follow up of implant therapy and treatment of peri-implantitis. Swedish Dental Journal. 188 (1): p7-66.
• [5] Wang, C. W., Hao, Y., Di Gianfilippo, R., Sugai, J., Li, J., Gong, W., Kornman, K. S., Wang, H. L., Kamada, N., Xie, Y., Giannobile, W. V., & Lei, Y. L. (2021). Machine learning-assisted immune profiling stratifies peri-implantitis patients with unique microbial colonization and clinical outcomes. Theranostics. 11 (14): p6703-6716. Available: https://www.thno.org/v11p6703.htm.
• [6] Chen, Y-W., Stanley, K., Att, W., & Dent, M. (2020). Quintessence International. 51 (3): p248-257.

The state of our oral health depends on a huge number of factors. While some, like diet and dental hygiene, may seem obvious, there are other areas too. One unexpected area is the wealth of a child’s parents. Now, researchers have looked to reach conclusions about this potential link. They found that having wealthy parents actually results in poorer oral health for children.

The oral health of a child depends on a huge number of areas. For instance, genetics, diet and the environment in which they grow up in.

Now, research has shown that another factor is the wealth of a child’s family. This unexpected factor has been researched comprehensively by Australian researchers, who used global data to carry out their study.

In a somewhat surprising result, the researchers found that children that came from a wealthy background were more likely to have poor oral health [1].

It was found that among the biggest causes of this was easy access to soft drinks, energy drinks and packaged juices [1].

Background

Many factors affect a child’s oral health. The modern-day diet is typically high in sugar, which is an important factor. The link between sugar and dental health is clear. Many studies show a direct link between sugar consumption and the number of decayed, missing or filled teeth [2].

Existing research also shows that the dental habits of parents has a big influence on their children’s oral health [3]. For example, this includes brushing habits and the number of trips to the dentist for check-ups each year [3].

Researchers are always looking for other factors that impact oral health. This can help them to identify potential solutions to problems. A new area that researchers have now considered is the link between a child’s financial background and their oral health.

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]. Therefore, it could be expected that those from poorer backgrounds would have worse dental health.

The Research

Now, researchers from Griffith University in Queensland, Australia have carried out a study into this area. The researchers partnered with the National Dental Research Institute of Singapore.

The research involved a global study of 30 countries [1]. It was a meta-analysis, which involved analysing 54 relevant studies, with over 64,000 participants [1]. Therefore, this study provided a comprehensive overview of children’s oral health around the world.

The aim of the research was to identify a link between socio-economic status and oral health, with their findings published in the Journal of Dentistry [1].

The study found that children whose parents had higher levels of education and wealth, and who had attended private schools had poorer oral health than those whose parents did not [1].

The researchers explained that these results were caused by many factors. Because of easy access to soft drinks, energy drinks and packaged juices, the risks increase [1]. The high sugar content causes this. Once sugar is consumed, it combines with bacteria to create acid. Subsequently, it gradually dissolves enamel. Finally, this leads to cavities that need to be filled.

The study also found that in certain countries, traditional foods and drink were another cause [1]. This included tamarind, hibiscus and citrus teas. The strong acid content caused this.

Yet the study also found that higher-educated adults had a lower risk of developing tooth problems [1]. Therefore, while those who are highly-educated typically have poorer oral health as they grow up, they will then typically have better oral health as an adult.

Consequently, this is an important consideration, and shows that those with strong oral health at a young age cannot get complacent.

What does this study show us?

Because this study had so many participants, the conclusions are very important. We must all consider the impact that our purchases and habits have on dental health.

Dr. Ahmed, the lead researcher, commented on the findings. He said that “fizzy drinks, energy drinks and packaged juices are in many countries available to the affluent” [5].

Such dietary habits can cause “progressive and irreversible wearing down of teeth over time, making them unsightly [and] more sensitive” [5].

Dr. Ahmed recommended that “early screening of individuals at risk” will help to “enhance the cost-effectiveness and success of dental treatments” [5].

These findings back up previous research. In addition, one study concluded that soft drinks were the “crucial link” between good and bad oral health [6].

In conclusion, this study acts as further confirmation of the importance of habit. But it also shows that there are many different factors affecting oral health, including some that we wouldn’t automatically think of. Because of this, having strong oral hygiene is crucial.

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.

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.

• [1] Entezami, S., Glazer Peres, K., Li, H., Albarki, Z., Hijazi, M., & Ahmed, K. E. (2021). Tooth wear and socioeconomic status in childhood and adulthood: findings from a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Journal of Dentistry. 103827. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdent.2021.103827.
• [2] 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.
• [3] Freire de Castilho, A. R., Mialhe, F. L., de Souza Barbosa, T., & Puppin-Rontani, R. M. (2013). Influence of family environment on cjildren’s oral health: a systematic review. Jornal de Pediatria. 89 (2): p116-123.
• [4] Statistics Canada. (2019). Dental Care, 2018. Available: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-625-x/2019001/article/00010-eng.htm. Last accessed: 24 September 2021.
• [5] Griffith University. (2021). Children from wealthy backgrounds at greater risk of tooth wear. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2021-10-children-wealthy-backgrounds-greater-tooth.html. Last accessed: 15th October 2021.
• [6] Kamal, Y., O’Toole, S., & Bernabé, E. (2019). Obesity and tooth wear among American adults: the role of sugar-sweetened acidic drinks. Journal of Clinical Oral Investigations. 24: p1379-1385.

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.