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Category: Dental Care

Why Is There an Issue With Getting Dental Implants Through California’s Medi-Cal?
2Sep
Medi-Cal has helped millions of people receive dental care in the State of California. However, there have been concerns in recent years about a lack of support for those that need dental implants. Legislation which could change this situation has been tabled, but concerns about this have also been raised.

Medi-Cal is California’s own Medicaid healthcare program – which aims to provide various medical services for low-income families.

Dental treatment is among the services offered by Medi-Cal. While this can be helpful for some people, others find it difficult to get the treatment they need.

This presents a very challenging situation for those with severe dental conditions that cause pain and therefore need urgent treatment [1].

For example, many people are finding out that getting dental implants is very difficult. However, a new bill is making its way through California legislature, which may change this situation.

Medi-Cal

Medi-Cal has been in place for several decades. While California is renowned for its highly-affluent areas, there are also some incredibly poverty-stricken regions too.

Medi-Cal has the intention of helping low-income individuals and families with healthcare costs. Other vulnerable populations, like the disabled or blind, are also eligible for coverage. Medi-Cal is means tested, so the amount of coverage that people receive is in line with their income.

As of 2024, over 15 million people were enrolled in Medi-Cal, equating to approximately 40% of the population of the state [2].

The difficult situation

Some dental services are included within Medi-Cal. However, some dental clinics do not accept Medi-Cal, meaning receiving coverage does not guarantee treatment [1].

For example, the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research found that only 21% of California dentists saw Medi-Cal patients of all ages [1]. Therefore, some people do not live in an area that offers dental care covered by Medi-Cal.

One specific area of concern is dental implants. Implants are artificial teeth that are implanted into the jawbone. They look and feel like a real tooth, and are a popular option for people who have had to have a tooth removed.

Dental implants offer strong results, with past research funding that there is a 90-95% success rate over 10 years for dental implants [3].

Teeth usually need to be removed due to either extensive tooth decay, trauma or gum disease. Those with a lack of teeth face numerous problems. Chewing, drinking and swallowing become very difficult. Moreover, self-esteem can also be impacted.

Dental implants are rarely routinely offered. Medi-Cal covers implants only in cases where “exceptional medical conditions are documented” [1]. Unfortunately, this is rather vague.

This causes many problems for those that have lost teeth. They are faced with the prospect of living without some teeth, or paying large sums in order to get implants. For many, this is not financially feasible.

Could this soon change?

However, this difficult situation may change soon. There is a bill that is making its way through the California Legislature that would expand Medi-Cal coverage of dental implants [1].

The bill was introduced by Democratic Senator Aisha Wahab. Wahab has said that “if you need an implant, you should be able to get it, especially our most vulnerable” people [1].

If this bill becomes law, patients could qualify for an implant in cases where their dentist believes an implant is the best option to replace a missing tooth [1].

The Senate passed the bill on a unanimous basis in May, with a vote currently pending in the Assembly Appropriations Committee [1]. The bill is slowly moving through legislature, and could eventually come into effect.

If the bill does come into effect, then it is likely that many patients will benefit. They may be able to get much-needed dental care.

Concerns about the bill

However, despite the positives, there are also a number of concerns. These surround cost, and concerns about the potential impact of the bill on dental clinics.

The Department of Health Care Services – who oversees Medi-Cal – have estimated that the cost of implementing the bill would be between $4 billion and $7 billion [1].

However, this is likely to be difficult, with Governor Gavin Newsom having recently signed a state budget which featured an estimated deficit of $46.8 billion – meaning that costs need to be cut.

There are other concerns too – including how much dental clinics would be reimbursed. Depending on various factors, the cost of implants can vary anywhere between $3,000 and $9,000 [1].

Alicia Malaby, spokesperson at the California Dental Association, has spoken on behalf of dental clinics. Malaby says that “reimbursement rates need to cover the costs of providing the service” – with implants also expensive for dental clinics to arrange [1].

Furthermore, Malaby said that “coverage is not meaningful unless the state is willing to fully invest in it to ensure people can actually access the care they need” [1].

The California Dental Association have also raised concerns about how invasive and time-consuming implant surgery is. They are not in support of the current bill.

Instead, they are supporting alternative legislation which would require Medi-Cal to cover two teeth cleanings and examinations a year for those aged 21 and over [1].

Summary

There are certainly concerns over the dental implant situation with Medi-Cal. Many people are in desperate need of oral health treatment.

However, as discussed above, there are a number of concerns too. This includes the cost burden and the impact on dental clinics.

Trying to find a compromise will be challenging. With various potential legislations being tabled, we may see a solution soon.

Thinking points…

1) As discussed earlier, dental implants are excellent options for those who need to have a tooth removed, or have already had some extracted. Implants are easy to fit, act naturally, and can boost your self-esteem. Here at Savanna Dental, we provide implant services, and will be happy to discuss your situation with you. We would love to speak to you soon, you can find out more about us at our website – https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

2) Cost is definitely a barrier to accessing dental care for many. However, here at our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental, our fees are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. Therefore, this means that our prices are transparent, competitive and reliable. This ranges from our check-ups to procedures. We hope to see you at our Calgary dental clinic soon!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Castle, M. (2024). Medi-Cal’s dental care gap: Getting a tooth pulled is easy—much harder to get an implant. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-08-medi-cal-dental-gap-tooth.html. Last accessed: 29th August 2024.

[2] California Department of Healthcare Services. (2024). About Us. Available: https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Pages/AboutUs.aspx. Last accessed: 29th August 2024.

[3] 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. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103%2Fjispcd.JISPCD_380_17.

Why Should Parents Focus on Their Children’s Oral Health Ahead of the Return to School?
25Aug
Children will soon be returning to school. With this in mind, this is an excellent opportunity for parents to focus on their children’s oral health and to get them into strong habits for the year ahead. There are many reasons why it is important for oral health to be a major consideration for parents.

With children due to return to school over the next few weeks, there are numerous things that parents will be preparing for.

Ensuring that their children have the required materials, uniform, and stationery are all common areas that parents focus on.

However, there is something else that parents should tie-in with their child’s return to school – a dental check-up. It is very important for children to have their oral health looked after.

Children’s oral health

The oral health of children is a big concern across the world currently. In recent decades, a decline in the oral health of children has been observed.

For example, the World Health Organization found that around 514 million children globally suffer from tooth decay in their baby teeth – which has risen sharply in recent decades [1].

Moreover, past research has shown that children with poor oral health are almost 3 times likelier than those with good oral health to miss school. Moreover, they typically perform worse at school [2]. Therefore, it is clear how important taking care of oral health in children is.

One of the most common dental problems in children is tooth decay. Tooth decay is caused by acids that are produced by bacteria. Over time, a cavity will form, which requires a filling.

Further research shows that tooth decay is associated with pain, poor sleep and difficulties in eating and speaking in children [3].

Oral health considerations

At the start of the school year and beyond, there are several oral health considerations for parents to have.

Over the summer, if a child has had poor oral hygiene, a cavity may have developed. If this is the case, then it is important to get this checked at a dental clinic.

Using the start of the school year as a chance to remind children of the importance of oral health can also be helpful. By getting into good oral habits at the start of the year, hopefully this will continue throughout the school year.

Something else to consider involves those that play sports. Children’s teeth grow over time, meaning that old mouthguards may no longer be suitable. It is important to have the right fit for a mouthguard. Therefore, getting an updated fit can help to protect your children from damage during sports.

What about if a tooth gets knocked out before school starts?

In the midst of the fun and games of summer vacations, accidents can happen. In some cases, children will accidentally have their teeth knocked out.

Dr. Natasha Flake – President of the American Association of Endodontists – has said that more than 5 million teeth are knocked out every year in children and adults [4].

Moreover, as children’s teeth are typically weaker, they are more vulnerable to falling out. But if this does unfortunately happen, then there are things that can be done.

Flake says that it is important to start by trying to find the tooth, and then hold onto it [4]. If possible, you could gently push the tooth back into its socket.

However, if this isn’t possible, then placing the tooth in an emergency tooth preservation kit or milk can help. Failing this, water can be used.

The aim here is to help the tooth survive. Flake says that it is then advisable to see a dentist as soon as possible. Seeing a dentist quickly will maximize the chances of tooth survival.

Flake explains that seeing an endodontist is advisable, as they have at least two more years of training beyond dental school [4]. Therefore, they may have better knowledge of saving knocked-out teeth.

Summary

As discussed, there are a range of reasons for oral health to be prioritized ahead of returning to school. This can benefit children in many ways.

Improved school performance and attendance, a boost to overall health, and positive wellbeing are all aligned with strong oral health.

For parents, they can greatly aid the overall health of their children by taking an active interest in their oral health.

Getting a dental check-up is an excellent way to start the school year, and can instil a positive habit for the year ahead.

Thinking points…

1) As discussed above, it is very important that children attend a dental check-up. By allowing a check-up to coincide with the start of the school year, it will allow you to keep track of their appointments – as they should take place twice per year, every year. Check-ups can help to keep children’s teeth strong, as a dentist will be able to spot any concerns, and provide treatment if needed. If you have children, why not book a dental appointment for them now?
2) Another way of ensuring that your children are aware of the importance of oral health is to bring them with you to your dental check-ups. This will allow them to become accustomed to a dental clinic, and realize its importance. Therefore, remember to attend regular check-ups yourself – and try to bring your children with you where possible. We recommend booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] World Health Organization. (2023). Oral Health. Available: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health. Last accessed: 22nd August 2024.

[2] Jackson, S. L., Vann, W. F., Kotch, J. B., Pahel, B. T., & Lee, J. Y. (2011). Impact of Poor Oral Health on Children’s School Attendance and Performance. American Journal of Public Health. 101 (10): p1900-1906. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2105%2FAJPH.2010.200915.

[3] Jackson, S. L., Vann, W. F. Jr., Kotch, J. B., Pahel, B. T., & Lee, J. Y. (2011). Impact of Poor Oral Health on Children’s School Attendance and Performance. American Journal of Public Health. 101 (10): p1900-1906. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2010.200915.

[4] Foster, R. (2024). Why back to school should include a dental checkup. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-08-school-dental-checkup.html. Last accessed: 22nd August 2024.

What Is the “Extra Hard” Gum Chewing Craze on TikTok? Does Chewing Hard Gum Actually Help?
19Aug
A recent new craze on TikTok involves users chewing “extra hard” chewing gum. According to the videos, this has the supposed benefit of improving the jawline of a person. But is this true? Now, a dental expert has discussed the craze and provided information on what chewing extra hard gum truly does.

Seeing new trends and crazes from the app TikTok is common. But a new craze – focused on chewing “extra hard” gum – may not be as effective as some people think.

There has recently been a huge number of videos of users chewing on “extra hard” gum uploaded to the app [1]. Many of these benefits promote the supposed benefits to this.

However, the truth is that this can actually be quite harmful. Knowing this is important, as it can protect a person’s oral health.

Impact of TikTok crazes

TikTok has grown enormously in the last few years. Research shows that there are currently over 2 billion users of the app [2].

This includes a huge range of age groups. However, the app is used mainly by teenagers and young adults – who are typically the most impressionable too.

Therefore, when there are crazes on TikTok, many younger people will be keen on partaking. When these are harmless crazes, there is nothing wrong with this. However, when the crazes are dangerous, this can lead to danger.

Chewing “extra hard” gum

One of the most recent crazes seen on TikTok concerns the use of extra-hard chewing gum. There are many videos on the app of users chewing the gum.

Many of the videos suggest that the person is in discomfort, with their mouths clearly having to do significant work to chew the gum.

Users on social media who are promoting the use of this gum have argued that it is a way of developing a chiseled jawline [1].

Many people, especially young men, see a chiseled jawline as a highly desirable and “manly” trait. Therefore, they are keen on doing what they can to form such a jawline.

The extra hard gum is seen as a “facial fitness” gym, and supposedly helps with toning and tightening the muscles around the jaw [1].

What is the oral health impact of chewing extra hard gum?

So does chewing hard gum assist with chiseling the jaw? Also, is chewing extra hard gum helpful or harmful? Experts have now weighed in on this discussion.

Dr. James Ruggiero – chair of dentistry at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey – has commented. He says that the extra hard gum has “very limited scientific research” to back up its use [1].

Actually, Ruggiero says that chewing extra hard gum can be harmful. Chewing with strong force puts a lot of pressure on the teeth. In some cases, it can cause them to crack or chip [1].

Furthermore, the risk is heightened if cavities or other oral health problems are present – as the teeth will already be weakened by this point. The additional chewing can worsen these issues [1].

Moreover, Ruggiero points out that constant jaw movement can strain the temporomandibular joint – which is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull [1]. This is a very important joint, and straining it can lead to pain developing easily.

Ruggiero sums this up by saying “chewing extra hard gum can be extremely detrimental to your oral health, causing significant damage to your teeth and jaw” [1].

Ruggiero has said that if a person does chew extra hard gum, any changes would be subtle. Therefore, the changes touted on TikTok are not truthful.

Summary

Unfortunately, it is always the case that we should take any claim or craze on TikTok with a pinch of salt. There have been many examples of harmful dental advice being provided on the app.

Regrettably, there are too many risks involved with this craze. Excessive pressure on the teeth, risking dental issues and potential joint pain are all unfortunate consequences of chewing extra hard gum.

Instead of chewing hard gum, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help a person to lose weight – which would enhance the chances of a chiseled jawline developing.

Overall, while chewing hard gum may provide modest benefits, there are many potential problems it can cause. It is important to prioritize oral health!

Thinking points…

1) It should be noted that the concern here is chewing extra hard gum. Remember that chewing regular gum is helpful from an oral health perspective, as it can stimulate the production of saliva and regulate acid levels in the mouth. Therefore, chewing normal gum can help with your oral health. Moreover, attending regular dental check-ups is a crucial way of keeping your oral health strong. We recommend that you book regular dental appointments – why not book one now?

2) Do you have a child or teenager? If so, it is highly likely that they use TikTok regularly. Therefore, they might be exposed to content like this. It is important to have regular conversations with them about their dental health. You could have a conversation with them or book them in for a 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 range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Thompson, D. (2024). TikTok craze ‘extra hard’ gum won’t chisel your jawline—it might even hurt you. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-08-tiktok-craze-extra-hard-gum.html. Last accessed: 16th August 2024.

[2] Statista. (2024). Number of TikTok users worldwide from 2018 to 2029. Available: https://www.statista.com/forecasts/1142687/tiktok-users-worldwide. Last accessed: 16th August 2024.

How Did the First Ever Fully Automated Dental Procedure on a Human Happen?
6Aug
A historic moment in dentistry has been announced, with the first ever fully automated dental procedure on a human having been completed. The announcement was made by American artificial intelligence company Perceptive. The procedure involved a robotic arm finishing a crown placement procedure.

In the first ever event of its kind – an American-based artificial intelligence (AI) company have completed the first fully automated dental procedure on a human [1].

The procedure was carried out by a company called Perceptive. This incredible event underlines the potential power of AI in dentistry.

It will be interesting to see how far AI can assist in dental procedures in the future. Hopefully, AI will continue to positively impact dentistry.

Announcement

US company Perceptive specialize in AI-driven 3D imaging software. The particular software used in this case involved a robotic arm that is designed to perform a dental procedure [1].

The company announced the completion of the first ever fully automated dental procedure on a human through a press release on Tuesday 30th July 2024 [1].

Founder and CEO of Perceptive – Dr. Chris Ciriello – said that “this medical breakthrough enhances the precision and efficiency of dental procedures, and democratizes access to better dental care, for improved patient experience and clinical outcomes” [1].

Perceptive have raised approximately $30 million in funding. Funders include various venture capitalists. For example, Dr. Edward Zuckerberg – father of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg – is among those to have funded the company [1].

Moreover, Perceptive have partnered with the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and the American Dental Association’s Forsyth Institute [1]. Therefore, they are working with well-established organizations.

How did the procedure happen?

As mentioned earlier, the procedure involved a robotic arm that has been specifically designed to perform dental procedures.

The procedure brought together advanced imaging techniques, AI, and robotics – creating a powerful combination!

The specific procedure that took place was finishing a crown placement [1]. A crown is typically used in cases to secure a tooth that has had a large filling, or has been damaged.

The first step was for an optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan of the patient’s tooth and mouth taking place [1].

When used for OCT, Perceptive’s intraoral scanner has demonstrated over 90% accuracy for identifying caries [2]. Moreover, it does not involve radiation, unlike an X-ray. Therefore, this carries several benefits.

The OCT was done through Perceptive’s intraoral scanner. This scanner is very advanced, and is capable of capturing 3D images beneath the gum line, through fluids, and importantly – under the surface of the tooth [1]. Overall, the capabilities of this imagery is remarkable.

This advanced imagery allows the system to pinpoint problematic signs, and know exactly which areas need to be treated [1]. Additionally, this clear imagery was also shown to the patient, who was able to understand why treatment was needed.

Once the area of treatment has been identified, the robotic arm takes over, and was able to finish the placement of the crown. No human action was needed, with the robotic arm being able to complete the procedure.

Future advancements

There is understandably a lot of excitement around this announcement. Moreover, AI is likely to have a key role in the shaping of dentistry in the future.

One such example of how Perceptive’s system could help in the future is through assisting in diagnosis and treatment planning. The system uses 3D volumetric data to assist with this [1].

Removing human error and manual labor could also save time and money for the dental industry. Furthermore, higher quality results are likelier.

Going forward, the aim is for the system to complete tasks like crown placements in just 15 minutes [1]. Therefore, this would represent a marked improvement for crown placements in particular – which normally requires two office visits, each of which lasts at least an hour.

Perceptive have stated that their system is being rigorously tested to ensure safety [2]. This is positive both for dentists and their patients.

AI in dentistry

AI certainly has the potential to advance dentistry. Yielding this potential to benefit the field is important – and can result in improved treatment options and outcomes for patients.

Improving treatment outcomes and patient experiences are two key considerations for any dental clinic. Having advanced technology can definitely assist with this.

But rather than replacing humans, AI is best used when assisting dentists. AI can provide systems and technology that can complement the work of dentists, and aid them in producing excellent treatment.

Thinking points…

1) The procedure that was featured in this research involved a crown. Dental crowns are very effective at protecting damaged teeth, and can improve appearance and restore confidence. Here at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental, we offer free dental crown consultations! If you are interested in hearing more about this treatment please see our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/. We would love to see you soon!

2) The aim is for none of us to ever need dental treatment. Therefore, it is important to look after our oral health! One of the best ways of ensuring your oral health remains strong is to attend regular check-ups. Check-ups provide a dentist with the chance to check the health of your teeth and gums, and suggest treatment if needed. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Oral Health. (2024). US-Based AI Company Completes World’s First Fully Automated Dental Procedure on a Human. Available: https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/oral-health/us-based-ai-company-says-it-completes-worlds-first-fully-automated-dental-procedure-1003980346/. Last accessed: 1st August 2024.

[2] Perceptive. (2024). Homepage. Available: https://www.perceptive.io/. Last accessed: 1st August 2024.

What Is the Connection Between Oral Health and Mental Health?
29Jul
Oral health is known to be strongly associated with our physical health. Yet many are unaware of the connection between oral health and our mental health. However, a link between these two areas does exist. There are several factors in place that mean those with mental health problems often have poor oral health.

The link between oral health and overall physical health is well-known. However, a connection that many are unaware of concerns oral health and mental health.

With discussions and awareness of mental health becoming more entrenched in society, many are seeing how their mental wellbeing impacts oral health [1].

There are a range of reasons why people with poor mental health may have an increased chance of having oral health problems.

Mental health

Mental health problems impact huge numbers of people around the world. For example, the World Health Organization found in 2019 that 970 million people were living with a mental disorder [2]. The Covid-19 pandemic is likely to have exacerbated this.

The most common conditions are Depression and Anxiety. More severe mental health conditions include Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.

Mental health disorders impair the day-to-day lives of many in multiple ways. This includes impacting employment, relationships with family and friends, and an ongoing risk of premature death.

Moreover, many have pointed towards a link between mental health and oral health. There are several reasons why this connection may exist.

Mental health and oral health research

Significant research has taken place looking at the connection between mental health and oral health. Findings have consistently found a link between them.

For example, research has found that those with depression and anxiety – the two most common mental health conditions – have a higher chance of tooth loss, and visiting dental clinics less [3].

Research has also indicated that patients in mental health hospitals do not unfortunately see dentists regularly [4]. This means that any problems they have may go unnoticed, causing long-term problems.

This is backed up by dentists. Chicago-based dentist Suhail Mohiuddin has estimated that around 15-20% of his patients have had a mental health condition that has impacted their oral health [1].

Then there are bigger factors at play. For instance, during Covid-19, routine dentistry around the world was suspended. This coincided with many people developing mental health conditions.

Therefore, hundreds of millions of people missed out on dental appointments, with many of these having mental health problems. The industry continues to gradually recover.

It is also apparent that for some people with anxiety, leaving their house can be a challenging experience. This can mean that making it to a dental clinic for a check-up can be very difficult.

Additionally, some people have an active phobia of the dentist. They may feel unable to attend the dentist, which can worsen their oral health.

For those that are out of work due to their mental health, they may struggle to afford dental care. This can be a major barrier to receiving oral healthcare.

Furthermore, those that have not visited the dentist in many years may be conscious of being judged by a dentist over the state of their teeth. This can be linked to poor self-esteem – resulting in a negative cycle developing.

Dry mouth

Antidepressant prescriptions have risen enormously over the last few decades. For example, in the United States, there was a 64% increase in the percentage of people using antidepressants between 1999 and 2014, with this number rising further in the last decade [5].

One of the most common side effects of antidepressants is dry mouth. A dry mouth results in a lack of saliva in the mouth. Saliva is crucial for regulating the acid levels of the mouth.

Therefore, due to a lack of saliva, acid and harmful bacteria can last for a longer period of time, doing more damage in the process.

With antidepressant usage rising, it has unsurprisingly resulted in a negative impact on oral health, with more people having a dry mouth. Chewing gum and frequently drinking water have proven to be effective ways of combatting this issue.

Ignoring toothbrushing

Anyone that has suffered from a mental health condition will be aware of how even the smallest of tasks can feel like an overwhelming challenge.

The perfect example of this is brushing your teeth. For most, brushing teeth is just a standard activity that is completed at least twice throughout the day.

However, for some, the task seems daunting, and is often ignored. This is especially the case when symptoms include a lack of energy or motivation.

When teeth are not brushed, it leaves them vulnerable to tooth decay, enamel erosion and gum disease. Cavities will often form, resulting in the need for a filling, and in some cases – a root canal procedure.

Summary

Experiencing poor mental health can be incredibly difficult. For sufferers, it can seem that recovery is not possible. But with the right treatment and support, better mental wellbeing is possible.

It appears that work is needed to provide a more cohesive treatment approach that involves both mental and oral health. With both areas expected to continue to affect large amounts of the population, hopefully action will be taken soon.

On social media, there are several people that have shared their experiences about mental health and its impact on oral health. Many users suggest setting goals and repeating positive affirmations can have a positive impact [1].

There is certainly a clear link between mental health and oral health. In the future, hopefully we will see improvements in both areas.

Thinking points…

1) As discussed above, some people have not attended the dentist for a few years. As a result, they may be afraid of visiting a dental clinic. However, here at Savanna Dental, we always welcome new patients at our Calgary dental clinic! We will be happy to discuss your situation, and provide treatment if needed. You can read more about us at our website – https://savannadentalclinic.ca!

2) If you, or someone you know, is going through a difficult time mentally, you’ll know about how difficult it can be to complete everyday tasks. However, try to prioritize attending the dentist if possible. This will aid your oral health, which can consequently have a positive impact on your overall health. Any issues can be identified, with treatment possible. We recommend booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Lee, C. (2024). How Depression Can Affect Dental Hygiene. Available: https://time.com/7001852/mental-health-impacts-dental-health/. Last accessed: 26th July 2024.

[2] World Health Organization. (2024). Mental Health. Available: https://www.who.int/health-topics/mental-health#tab=tab_2. Last accessed: 26th July 2024.

[3] Okoro, C. A., Strine, T. W., Eke, P. I., Dhingra, S. S., & Balluz, L. S. (2012). The association between depression and anxiety and use of oral health services and tooth loss. Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology. 40 (2): p134-144. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0528.2011.00637.x.

[4] Scrine, C., Durey, A., & Slack-Smith, L. (2017). Enhancing oral health for better mental health: Exploring the views of mental health professionals. International Journal of Mental Health Nursing. 28 (1): p178-186. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/inm.12307.

[5] Winerman, L. (2017). By the numbers: Antidepressant use on the rise. Available: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/11/numbers. Last accessed: 26th July 2024.

Do Children Visit the Dentist More When Supported by Pediatric Providers?
15Jul
Recent research has looked to see if there is a connection between enhanced oral health support from a primary care clinician and the frequency of visits to the dentist. While most children visit a primary care clinician, not everyone goes to the dentist. A research team sought to find out if this could be changed through more oral health support during primary care visits.

New research has looked at a potential relationship between enhanced oral health support from a primary care clinician and the frequency of visits to the dentist [1].

This is an interesting combination, with these two areas having never been studied together before. While they both represent healthcare visits, more people visit primary care clinicians than dental clinics.

Such subject areas are very important, as more work is needed to help improve the state of oral health in children.

Background

Primary care pediatric clinicians refer to health workers that offer first-contact care. Pediatric clinicians are those that work with children.

Parents often take their children to primary care pediatric clinicians for things like general queries, minor injuries or childhood vaccinations.

However, not everyone visits the dentist. For example, research shows that approximately 81% of American children aged 1-17 go to the dentist [2]. While this is a high number, this still means a large number do not visit.

The oral health of children is always a key topic. This is especially the case for children from low-income households, with research showing they are at a higher risk of oral health problems.

For example, one study found that 17% of preschool-aged children from low-income households have untreated cavities in their baby teeth. This is three times more than children from higher-income families [3].

By having strong attendance at dental clinics during childhood, it can help children to build long-term positive habits. Therefore, improving attendance is a key goal for health organizations.

The Research

The research was undertaken by a team at the Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine. Their findings were published in JAMA Network Open [1].

The authors of the study noted that nearly all children at some point will see a primary care clinician [1]. Therefore, they wanted to see if they could use these visits to promote oral health.

63 pediatric clinicians were recruited. These clinicians were provided with oral health-related education and skills training – which included identifying signs of decay in children’s teeth, navigating an electronic health record, advising parents, and providing a dental referral [1].

The study involved 1,023 children. These participants and their parents were followed over a three-year period. These children were all enrolled in Medicaid, with most coming from a low-income family [1].

About half of the children received a standard medical wellness visit. The other half received a medical wellness service, but were also provided with an oral health intervention [1]. These visits followed the same pattern over a three-year period.

At the end of the three years, the researchers asked if the children had been to see the dentist. The results showed that 52% of children that had received the oral health intervention had visited a dentist. However, in the group that just received the standard service, only 43% of children had visited the dentist [1].

Therefore, the researchers were able to conclude that children who receive oral health intervention during a wellness visit are 34% more likely to visit the dentist [1].

This represents a large number, and underlines the effectiveness of oral health being discussed by primary care clinicians.

Moreover, those that had received the oral health advice had fewer untreated decayed teeth compared to their counterparts [1]. Therefore, there are clearly a range of benefits.

Summary

Overall, the researchers found that when primary care clinicians were able to talk to parents about oral health, dental visits subsequently increased [1].

The researchers suggested that improving childhood dental attendance could help to reduce untreated tooth decay and oral health disparities in disadvantaged communities [1].

A key takeaway from the research is that pediatric clinicians should be trained to talk about oral health in more detail, as it clearly has a positive impact.

It also underlines the importance of integrating oral and physical health advice together. There is a clear link between oral and physical health.

On this idea of integration, Jennifer Webster-Cyriaque – Deputy Director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research – says that “by bridging these disciplines, dental and medical providers can work better together to reach all children” – which can help “to improve children’s health” [4].

Primary care clinicians can certainly have a positive impact on the oral health of children. Hopefully, enhanced training can take place, which can benefit the health of many children.

Thinking points…

1) Do you have children? If so, remember it is crucial to visit the dentist regularly! As discussed earlier, taking children to the dentist from a young age can help them to instil strong habits which can boost their long-term oral health. Therefore, we recommend that they see a dentist regularly. You could book an appointment for them now!

2) Remember that it isn’t just children that need to receive regular oral healthcare! It is very important that adults attend regular dental check-ups. These provide the chance for a dentist to take a look at your oral health, look for any issues, and provide treatment if needed. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

References

[1] Nelson, S., Albert, J. M., & Selvaraj, D. (2024). Multilevel Interventions and Dental Attendance in Pediatric Primary Care. JAMA Network Open. 7 (7): e2418217. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.18217.

[2] National Center for Health Statistics. (2021). Dental Care Utilization Among Children Aged 1–17 Years: United States, 2019 and 2020. Available: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db424.htm. Last accessed: 12th July 2024.

[3] McMains, V. (2024). Dental Visits Increase with Support from Pediatric Providers. Available: https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/news-events/nidcr-news/2024/dental-visits-increase-support-pediatric-providers. Last accessed: 12th July 2024.

[4] Case Western Reserve University. (2024). Dental visits found to increase with support from pediatric providers. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-07-dental-pediatric.html. Last accessed: 12th July 2024.