Category: Dental Care

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.

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) has voiced their pleasure at recent changes to the Canadian Dental Care Plan. The changes have been implemented by the Federal Government following dentists raising concerns about the plan. These changes should have a positive impact. However, the CDA have noted that further improvements are needed in the future.

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) has released a statement to voice their pleasure at the Federal Government’s recent changes to the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) [1].

These changes have addressed some of the concerns that had previously been raised by dentists. The government have acted upon these concerns.

However, the CDA has pointed out that further changes are needed. These changes have the potential to improve the CDCP. This will mean that eventually, the focus will be on what is most important – providing excellent care to patients.

Initial concerns for the CDA

The CDCP assists low- and middle-income families with dental costs. It continues to be rolled out, with more and more people becoming eligible for the plan over time. Eventually, it will be rolled out to all eligible Canadian residents.

The plan has already attracted over 2 million people to sign up – showing its popularity. However, there have been several problems in the first few months.

The CDA went on record previously to discuss some concerns that they had. These included concerns on how the plan would work, and how much they would be compensated by the government for the services provided [2].

At the time, the then-President of the CDA Heather Carr spoke of how dentists “really want to care for their patients,” but that there were a lack of details on how the plan would work in reality [2].

Throughout disputes over the details of the CDCP, the CDA have made it clear that their goal has always been for access to care to improve for people without dental benefits [1].

CDA Statement

The aforementioned statement mentioned that the CDA “welcomes the federal government’s recent changes to the CDCP, which address key concerns of dentists” [1].

Over the last few months, the federal government have been improving the plan – which the CDA has recognized.

The changes that have pleased the CDA include simplifying the terms and conditions that providers must agree to, and providing clarity on which treatments will be covered by the plan.

These changes will allow dental clinics to better address the needs of their patients. Therefore, this should result in a positive improvement in patient experience.

Moreover, the CDA are hopeful that these changes could encourage more dental clinics to participate in the CDCP. But they have noted this will be down to individual dentists to decide [1].

There have certainly been some improvements, with the federal government seemingly acting on the concerns of the CDA. But more work is needed.

The need for further improvements

The CDCP is a very complex project. Therefore, further improvements will be needed going forward, but recent changes offer encouragement for the short to mid-term.

Dr. Joel Antel – the recently appointed new CDA President – has said that “while acknowledging the progress made so far, there is still work to be done in the medium to long term to benefit Canadians over time” [1].

Antel has confirmed that the “CDA will continue advocating for these changes and looks forward to working in partnership with the federal government” [1].

The CDA has pointed out that one urgent area for improvement is the federal government’s public communication about the CDCP [1]. They believe that this has been an area which has been lacking.

For example, the CDA have pointed out that 61% of seniors have not heard about the co-payment requirement based on income for the CDCP [1]. This is very concerning – as it means some seniors are racking up expensive and unexpected bills – something that the CDCP is meant to stop.

Moreover, the CDA say that 60% of the public think communication about which services are covered by the CDCP is not clear [1]. This is making some people reluctant to sign up for the plan.

The CDA have mentioned that some dental offices are spending approximately an hour each day to explain the CDCP to patients. This time would be better suited to treating patients.

The CDA have argued that some changes are needed specifically to help seniors, children, and those with disabilities [1].

Summary

The CDA has consistently been in support of the CDCP. While they have requested changes and expressed discontent at times – this is mainly because they view the plan as a key moment in the history of oral health in Canada.

By getting the approach correct, it can contribute to a lasting legacy of strong oral health across Canada, and for future generations. Hopefully, more positive changes will take place.

The CDA also reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the federal government, with the common goal of improving access to oral healthcare.

By seeing more improvements with the CDCP, we should see a positive boost in patient care and treatment outcomes.

Thinking points…

1) The rollout of the CDCP continues to take place. But it is not expected that the wider public will become eligible until at some point in 2025. Therefore, if you are planning on waiting to become eligible for the CDCP before going to the dentist, we strongly recommend against this! By getting regular check-ups, any problems can be identified, monitored and acted on. We recommend that you book a check-up soon!

2) One of the reasons for the CDCP’s existence is that many people find the cost of dental care too high. Therefore, you will be interested to know that here at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental, our fees are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which ensures that our prices remain fair, transparent and competitive. We’d love to see you at Savanna Dental soon, you can find out more about us here: www.savannadental.ca!

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] Canadian Dental Association. (2024). CDA encouraged by federal government’s changes to the CDCP, commits to working together for further improvements in the longer term. Available: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/about/media_room/news_releases/2024/06_25_CDA_encouraged_by_changes_CDCP.asp. Last accessed: 6th July 2024.

[2] Osman, L. (2024). Dentists, hygienists still in the dark on details of federal dental-care plan. Available: https://www.cp24.com/news/dentists-hygienists-still-in-the-dark-on-details-of-federal-dental-care-plan-1.6750296. Last accessed: 6th July 2024.

Bad breath – also known as Halitosis – is a very common issue. Interestingly, bad breath is not entirely linked to oral conditions. Instead, there are several physical health conditions linked to bad breath. Moreover, how can people tell if they have bad breath? Taking certain steps can help to lessen cases of bad breath.

Halitosis – which is better known as bad breath – is a problem that impacts many people. It is a common source of concern, anxiety, and sometimes embarrassment.

While many people think bad breath is purely related to our oral health, this is actually far from the case. Bad breath can be linked to many other areas.

Bad breath is something we all try to avoid, but it isn’t always possible. But what causes bad breath? Moreover, how can you tell if you have it? In this article, we examine these questions.

What is bad breath?

Having temporary bouts of bad breath, such as at first thing in the morning or after eating something strong like garlic, is normal. However, some people have a long-term issue with bad breath – which is called halitosis.

Statistics show that around a third of adults have bad breath [1]. Research shows that around 90% of cases of bad breath is due to oral health problems [2].

As well as being a health concern, bad breath also poses a social problem. For example, bad breath has been associated with poor self-esteem and anxiety [3].

Improving oral hygiene can help to lessen bad breath. However, knowing about the causes of bad breath can help.

Oral causes of bad breath

As discussed above, bad breath is mainly linked to oral health. For example, a lack of toothbrushing and neglecting the tongue when brushing are common causes.

One of the most common causes is an overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth. The mouth offers a huge space for bacteria to grow. There are small areas that are hard to clean – including between our teeth, parts of the gums, and the back of the mouth.

When we do not brush our teeth or floss, a build-up of bacteria between the teeth and gums develops, resulting in a rotten-smelling odour emitting.

The throat is a passage for food, fluids and air. This is a trio that can easily create a concoction that results in bad breath.

Moreover, some people can develop a condition called pharyngeal pouch. This is where a pocket forms at the back of the throat, which attracts food, fluids and air – resulting in the combination fermenting and causing a pungent odour [4].

An overgrowth of bacteria can also cause tonsilitis and tooth infections. This involves tissues becoming inflamed, or developing pus. Pus also causes a foul odour.

Sinusitis – which is an infection of the cavities in the skull – can also drop infected secretions into the throat, which worsens bad breath [4].

As with many other conditions, tobacco use also worsens bad breath. Strong-flavoured foods like garlic and onion can also cause short-term bad breath.

Physical causes of bad breath

But looking at a wider perspective, bad breath can also indicate problems with the gut, and in some cases – the bloodstream [4]. In fact, there are many different conditions linked to bad breath.

One well-known condition that can impact bad breath is called diabetes mellitus. This is a metabolic disorder which involves glucose being unable to access the body’s cells. Therefore, this results in a lack of energy, resulting in sugar levels rising in the bloodstream [4].

Then there is also a condition called diabetic ketoacidosis. This happens when the body breaks down fats into compounds called ketones to act as fuel – normally when there is insufficient insulin dosage in the body [4].

Moreover, ketones have a distinct scent. One such example is acetone – which many people know for its use in nail varnish removers. For those that are aware of these removers, they will know of the strong stench they carry. When ketones build up in the bloodstream, they can easily diffuse into the breath, thereby bringing the odour with them [4].

Our diet also impacts us in many ways – including our breath. This is especially the case with diets that trigger ketone production – which is done with the intention of breaking down fats to hasten weight loss [4].

Such diets include the Atkins diet, which aims to make the body convert fat into energy by restricting carbohydrates. Another well-known diet is the 5:2 intermittent fasting plan. While these diets may promote weight loss, one of the most common side effects is foul breath.

How to tell if you have bad breath

A common issue with bad breath is that it can be very difficult to tell if you have it. We are often reliant on others telling us – though it can be a difficult topic to bring up.

There are actually some diagnostic tests that can be done. However, these are typically done as a way of testing for some serious health conditions.

But as discussed, for many people, their bad breath is linked to oral health. Therefore, diagnostic tests probably aren’t necessary. Instead, you can test your own breath.

One tried and tested method is to lick the back of your wrist, let it dry, and then smell it. This is a good way of finding out for yourself.

If you do need to improve your breath, then there are simple ways of doing so. For example, sipping water throughout the day, using mouthwash, remembering to brush your tongue, and eating leafy greens can all help.

Overall, while bad breath is often oral-related, there are clearly some physical health considerations too. As detailed above, when bad breath does hit, there are things that can be done to improve your breath!

Thinking points…

1) Bad breath is a common issue which impacts many people. As discussed in this article, make sure you brush your teeth and floss regularly. Using mouthwash can also complement your oral hygiene and keep your breath feeling fresh throughout the day. Some people use a tongue scraper as a way of lessening bacteria levels on their tongue. Have a think now about ways of improving your oral hygiene!

2) While following the above tips can help to stave off the threat of bad breath, there is something else that you can do for your oral health – visit the dentist on a regular basis for a check-up! Check-ups are crucial, as they involve a dentist taking a look at your oral health, providing advice and making recommendations 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] Veeresha, K. L., Bansal, M., & Bansal, V. (2011). Halitosis: A frequently ignored social condition. Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry. 1 (1): p9-13. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103%2F2231-0762.86374.

[2] Quirynen, M., Mongardini, C., & van Steenberge, D. (1998). The Effect of a 1-Stage Full-Mouth Disinfection on Oral Malodor and Microbial Colonization of the Tongue in Periodontitis Patients. A Pilot Study. Journal of Periodontology. 69 (3): p374-382. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1902/jop.1998.69.3.374.

[3] Kisely, S. (2016). No Mental Health without Oral Health. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. 61 (5): p277-282. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0706743716632523.

[4] Baumgardt, D. (2024). Take my (bad) breath away – causes of halitosis and how to check whether you have it. Available: https://theconversation.com/take-my-bad-breath-away-causes-of-halitosis-and-how-to-check-whether-you-have-it-231858. Last accessed: 22nd June 2024.