Home Dental Care (Page 9)

Category: Dental Care

Is Teeth Grinding Actually a Bad Thing?
2Oct
Bruxism – which is also known as teeth grinding – is a common condition that affects a large number of people. There are a range of adverse effects caused by teeth grinding, which can take place while both awake and asleep. But there have been some recent suggestions that bruxism actually isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, is this true?

Bruxism – also known as teeth grinding – is a condition that is becoming increasingly common. In fact, bruxism is actually the dental diagnosis that has increased the most post-pandemic [1].

We are used to hearing that teeth grinding is bad for us. It can erode enamel, affect our gums, cause fillings to fall out, and disturb our sleep [1].

However, it has recently been proposed that bruxism may not necessarily be a bad thing, and that there could be some benefits to it. But is this true?

What is bruxism?

Bruxism involves a person grinding their teeth. It is normally done involuntarily while a person is asleep. However, it can also be done while a person is awake [1].

As mentioned earlier, bruxism is the dental diagnosis that has increased the most following Covid-19. It has almost quadrupled, with its incidence rising from 6% to 23% [1].

It isn’t entirely clear what causes bruxism. However, it is believed to be linked to stress, anxiety, smoking, recreational drug use, and some medications [2].

Is bruxism actually beneficial?

Interestingly, there have been some suggestions that bruxism could actually be beneficial. Some research has supported this theory.

For example, a study in 2020 found that teeth grinding while awake could act as a way of relieving stress [3]. Therefore, this activity was found to help the wellbeing of stressed individuals.

Moreover, the study also suggested that teeth grinding while asleep can protect against gastric reflux and obstructive sleep apnoea [3]. These are two conditions that can cause a range of problems.

These factors do suggest there could be some benefits to bruxism. However, the benefits are far outweighed by the negatives associated with bruxism.

As mentioned, bruxism can erode enamel, which makes us more vulnerable to cavities. Moreover, it can also cause fillings to fall out. Many people find it disturbs their sleep and can cause headaches, migraines, or joint pain.

Treatment of bruxism: The role of biofeedback

When looking at treatment options, something called biofeedback represents an interesting choice. Biofeedback involves patients using a device called an electromyograph [1].

This device measures electrical activity in the muscles. Using this device, a patient can learn to identify and reduce muscle tension through adopting a jaw position using the device [1].

In order for the jaw to be relaxed and therefore at rest, it is important for it to have no contact between the teeth. The electromyograph can help facilitate this arrangement [1].

Moreover, it has been proposed that stress-relief exercises can reduce instances of bruxism. These can include exercising regularly, relaxation and deep-breathing techniques.

Smaller actions like wearing a mouth guard while asleep, putting post-it notes in visible places to remind yourself not to grind your teeth, and even going out for a walk can all be other ways of helping protect your mouth from bruxism.

Overall, while there might be a few benefits to bruxism, there are far too many negatives involved. For those that do suffer from bruxism, getting help is important.

Thinking points…

[1] Remember that attending regular dental appointments is key for your oral health. Dental appointments allow a dentist to take an in-depth look at the oral health of their patient. If treatment is needed, then this can be arranged. Given that early detection is vital, remember to attend a dental clinic at least once every six months. We recommend booking an appointment now!

[2] Do you grind your teeth? If so, remember that there are things that you can do. Breathing exercises, regular exercise, and a consistent sleep routine can all be helpful. You can also get some advice from a dental professional. As mentioned above, having regular dental check-ups can also be very helpful.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.

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

Moreover, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing.

We hope to see you soon at our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Ortega, L. J., Jiminez-Pajaeror, E. W., & Gonzalez, M. G. (2023). Why grinding your teeth might not always be a bad thing. Available: https://theconversation.com/why-grinding-your-teeth-might-not-always-be-a-bad-thing-211971. Last accessed: 29th September 2023.

[2] NHS. (2022). Teeth grinding (bruxism). Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/teeth-grinding/. Last accessed: 29th September 2023.

[3] Soto-Goni, X. A., Alen, F., Buiza-Gonzalez, L., Marcolino-Cruz, D., Sanchez-Sanchez, T., Ardizone-Garcia, I., Aneiros-Lopez, F., & Jiminez-Ortega, L. (2020). Adaptive Stress Coping in Awake Bruxism. Frontiers in Neurology. 11: 564431. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389%2Ffneur.2020.564431.

Is Flossing Actually Effective? And Is Having the Correct Flossing Technique Important?
25Sep
Recent research has looked into how flossing technique impacts the effectiveness of flossing. Flossing is a key part of oral health and is an excellent tool to protect your teeth and gums. However, flossing is something that many people ignore. For those that do floss, the research has shown that using the correct technique can boost their oral health.

The importance of flossing cannot be understated. It is crucial for removing debris that a toothbrush can’t reach, and helps protect against cavities and bad breath.

However, while most people brush their teeth regularly, flossing is something that many people forget to do. Furthermore, for those that do floss, many do not know how to do so effectively.

Recent research has looked into what impact proper flossing technique has [1]. The results show that flossing is very important and has a positive impact. This impact is more pronounced when proper flossing technique is used.

Background

Flossing can help remove debris from food and anything else in the mouth. Furthermore, it stops dental plaque from forming, aiding cavity prevention. It also helps gum health.

The United Kingdom’s NHS recommends that people floss from the age of 12 [2]. But while dentists always praise flossing, there has been some debate on its effectiveness.

2016 Associated Press article

One of the key factors in this research was a somewhat controversial article from the Associated Press in 2016 [1]. The article, which used findings from numerous studies, stated that there was “little proof that flossing works” in the long-term [3].

At the time, it caused some debate on if flossing was actually effective. Dentists pointed out that gum disease can take many years to develop – making long-term studies unrealistic [1].

The Research

The research was carried out by a team from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Their findings have been published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene [1].

As mentioned, the research team wanted to provide evidence that dental flossing is an effective activity, which could dispute the findings of the Associated Press [1].

One of the first things they realised was that many people weren’t flossing accurately. Therefore, this limited the effectiveness of flossing.

They recruited 36 study participants. These participants all had a diagnosis of Gingivitis – the earliest stage of gum disease [1]. Gingivitis is a very common condition. With bleeding gums being a common symptom of gingivitis, the researchers decided this would be the key area that they would look out for.

Then, the participants were split into two groups. One group were trained to floss using a technique called “adapted horizontal vertical flossing”. Meanwhile, the other group were left to continue their usual flossing style [1].

The participants were asked to floss every night for an eight week period. After eight weeks, the researchers looked to see how common bleeding gums were among both groups.

Incredibly, those that had used the adapted horizontal vertical flossing technique had seen a 70% reduction in bleeding gums [1].

Also, those that flossed using their own technique saw a 30% reduction in bleeding gums [1]. This shows that even when the optimal technique isn’t used, any form of flossing can still have a positive impact.

Overall, the researchers concluded that people that learned and consistently used proper flossing technique showed fewer signs of gum disease and other oral health problems. However, the study also found any form of flossing can be effective.

What is proper flossing technique?

The study recommended that the below technique should be used [1]:

• Wrap each end of a 15–18-inch length of floss around the ring or middle finger of both hands.

• This should leave around 5-6-inches of floss to use. Hold this floss with the index finger or thumb of each hand. Use around three quarters of floss between the fingers of each hand.

• Start at one end of either the top or bottom set of teeth and apply the floss to the curved surface of the tooth – essentially bending a “c” shape around the tooth.

• Carefully move the floss in a forward-backward motion and upwards and downwards – this should remove any debris

• Continue this process for each tooth [1]

By following the above technique, it should result in effective flossing. This can boost your oral health and protect your gums.

The authors were pleased with the outcome of the research. Paul Levi of Tufts University, said that this was the first study “to prove that a person using floss with a specific technique will have less gum infection than a person who just does what they normally do” [4].

Making flossing a regular part of your oral hygiene routine is crucial! Furthermore, as this study shows, using an effective method is equally important!

Thinking points…

[1] Flossing can protect against cavities and gum disease. Another important part of preventing oral health is to attend regular dental check-ups. A check-up provides a dentist with an opportunity to take a look at your oral health in detail, and identify any problems. It is important to frequently attend check-ups. We recommend booking an appointment now!

[2] Many people do not floss. This might be due to not feeling it is worthwhile, being lazy, or just forgetting. But as this research has shown, it can have very strong results for our oral health. Therefore, try and find a way of incorporating flossing into your bedtime routine – and ensure you do it either just before or straight after brushing your teeth. We recommend figuring out a routine now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.

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

Moreover, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing.

We hope to see you soon at our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Basali, D. H., Hong, I., Finkelman, M., Dragan, I. F., Gyurko, R., Uzel, N. G., & Levi, P. A. (2023). The Effect of Dental Flossing Instructions and Technique on Interproximal Bleeding: A randomized control trial. Journal of Dental Hygiene. 97 (4): p36-45.

[2] NHS. (2019). Why should I use dental floss?. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/dental-health/why-should-i-use-dental-floss/. Last accessed: 23rd September 2023.

[3] Associated Press. (2016). Untitled. Available: https://apnews.com/article/f7e66079d9ba4b4985d7af350619a9e3. Last accessed: 23rd September 2023.

[4] Ragovin, H. (2023). You could be flossing all wrong, if you’re even flossing at all. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-09-flossing-wrong-youre.html. Last accessed: 23rd September 2023.

What Role Did Teledentistry Play in Dental Care During COVID-19?
18Sep
Teledentistry is a growing area that involves the use of technology to provide virtual dental care. While teledentistry was used – albeit briefly – pre-pandemic, Covid-19 resulted in a huge rise in its use. With routine dentistry being suspended during Covid-19, teledentistry proved to be very effective. Now, a new report has looked into teledentistry.

Teledentistry refers to the use of technology like computers or phones, for the purpose of receiving virtual dental care. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular.

During the early months of the Covid-19 pandemic, Teledentistry was heavily used. Teledentistry typically involves a live video chat between a patient and their dentist, or using email to provide key pictures or information regarding a problem the patient has.

A new report has looked into the use of teledentistry in the United States. It has found that it is capable of producing positive results. However, there have been some concerns [1].

Dental industry in Covid-19

The Covid-19 pandemic is believed to have started in December 2019, and caused mass disruption around the world. The dental industry was particularly hit hard.

At the time of writing, the World Health Organization (WHO) have reported there have been 6.9million deaths from the virus [2].

In 2020, the WHO announced that all non-emergency and routine dentistry should be suspended. Therefore, only those requiring urgent dental care received treatment [3]. This meant that millions missed scheduled dental check-ups. Unfortunately, some have not returned to a dental clinic since.

In this time, tooth decay and gum disease have become more common in some populations [4]. Moreover, as minor issues weren’t treated, many such issues have morphed into more serious ailments. For example, for those that needed a routine cavity filling, the delay meant that some needed a root canal treatment.

With people unable to get routine dental appointments, alternative arrangements were made. Among these alternatives was teledentistry – which has been the subject of a recent report.

The Report

The Oral Health Workforce Research Center (OHWRC) have produced a report that has looked in detail at teledentistry and its use in the Covid-19 pandemic [1]. The OHWRC is part of the University at Albany.

The OHWRC noted that dental clinics identified teledentistry as a way of providing dental services during the Covid-19 pandemic [1]. This provided dental clinics with a way of reaching their patients – in the absence of face-to-face services.

To begin with, the authors noted some of the concerns that were associated with teledentistry [1]. Given that dentistry involves physical procedures, the authors pointed out that many people were concerned about a lack of quality in virtual consultations when compared with face-to-face encounters [1].

They also noted that there were concerns over the costs in terms of infrastructure and software. Other concerns included those about if patients would accept a virtual appointment [1].

However, these concerns were seemingly cast aside, with the researchers finding that teledentistry was effective through answers to interviews and surveys into the topic.

They found that the majority of participants in the interviews expressed an interest in continuing to provide teledentistry services [1]. Many found that despite initial reservations, teledentistry proved simple to facilitate.

One of the main benefits was the increased access to dental care that teledentistry provided [1]. This had a range of benefits – especially for those with mobility difficulties, who would typically struggle to make it to face-to-face dental appointments.

The researchers also demonstrated the rise of teledentistry. In fact, they found that by April 2020, the use of teledentistry had increased to almost 60 times the level of use from April 2019.

Interestingly, by August 2020, which was when dental offices started to reopen, teledentistry remained very popular [1]. Its popularity has remained since then.

Looking to the future

The researchers hope that teledentistry can continue to be popular, despite routine dentistry being used again. They have confidence that this will be the case, based on how many people found teledentistry to be effective over the pandemic.

They concluded that teledentistry can serve a huge range of functions effectively, including triage, consultation, diagnosis, referral, follow-ups and health education [1].

However, they have pointed out that a significant barrier that limits the reach of teledentistry is the various laws and regulations of each state. For example, some states do not authorize the use of teledentistry [1].

But while there are barriers in place, the overall findings were positive. There are many strengths associated with teledentistry. Going forward, its popularity is expected to remain.

Thinking points…

1) Some people haven’t yet made a dental appointment since Covid-19. If you are one of these people, remember to book a check-up as soon as possible! It is important to spot any problems early on. A check-up will allow a dentist to take a look at your oral health and make suggestions if needed. Therefore, remember to book soon!

2) Teledentistry has been around for a while, but its popularity has only recently exploded. Can you think of anyone who might be interested in teledentistry? If so – why not send them this article to them! Teledentistry can be particularly useful for those with dental fear or anxiety. We recommend sharing the article now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

We advise our patients to 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. 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™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

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 clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Oral Health Workforce Research Center. (2023). Teledentistry Adoption and Use During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Available: https://www.chwsny.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/OHWRC-Teledentistry-During-COVID-19_2023_Final.pdf. Last accessed: 14th September 2023.

[2] World Health Organization. (2023). WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Dashboard. Available: https://covid19.who.int/. Last accessed: 14th September 2023.

[3] Rivas, K. (2020). Amid coronavirus, avoid nonessential dental care, WHO says. Available: https://www.foxnews.com/health/who-coronavirus-avoid-nonessential-dental-care. Last accessed: 14th September 2023.

[4] Lyu, W., & Wehby, G. L. (2022). Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on children’s oral health and oral health care use. The Journal of the American Dental Association. 153 (8): p787-796. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adaj.2022.02.008.

What Impact Does the Tooth Fairy Have on Children?
4Sep
The Tooth Fairy is an important part of oral health for children. A recent poll has looked into how the oral health of children is impacted by the tooth fairy. The findings are very positive, with the tooth fairy helping to promote strong oral health habits. It also acts as a way of reminding children of the importance of their dental health – making it very useful!

Every year, August 22nd marks “National Tooth Fairy Day” – a day which is used to remind parents and children of the importance of oral health and raise awareness of the oral health of children.

In line with this date, Delta Dental have released findings from their 2023 Original Tooth Fairy Poll® – which has been in operation for 25 years [1].

About the Tooth Fairy

The tooth fairy actually dates back many centuries, having originated in Europe. In more recent decades, it has become a regular fixture in American households.

A visit from the tooth fairy is normally a very exciting prospect for children – and often results in a financial reward. Therefore, it can be a great way of incentivizing strong oral health.

Typically, a child will place their lost tooth under their pillow prior to sleeping. After waking up, money is normally placed there – with the idea that the tooth fairy has come to visit during the night.

The 2023 Tooth Fairy Poll

The Tooth Fairy Poll® takes place each year. This poll is commissioned by Delta Dental, who interviewed 1,000 parents of children aged 6 to 12. These parents were asked about the tooth fairy and its impact on their children and their oral health [1].

The tooth fairy is an important part of life for most Americans. The poll found that 81% of American homes involve the tooth fairy in their day-to-day lives [1].

Overall, the results are overwhelmingly positive in support of the tooth fairy! The various statistics put forward by the poll show how useful it can be.

Perhaps the most important finding is that 1 in 3 parents say the tooth fairy instils good oral health habits in their children [1]. Therefore, mentioning the tooth fairy on a regular basis can be useful for parents, as it appears to have a positive impact on children.

The research also found that the tooth fairy can be used as a way of motivating children to look after their teeth more [1]. Parents can suggest to their children that the tooth fairy is watching them closely, which can make them likelier to pay extra attention to their oral health.

There are other benefits too for parents. Among these is the finding that 27% of children go to bed early when anticipating a visit from the tooth fairy [1]!

One of the most noticeable changes in recent years is the value of a tooth! The average value in 2023 is $6.23 [1]. Incredibly, this has risen from $1.30 since the poll first started – representing a 379% increase [1]!

In terms of regions within the United States, southern states valued teeth the highest – providing an average of $6.59 per tooth [1]. Meanwhile, midwestern states valued teeth the lowest – although this was still $5.63 on average [1].

A “beloved visitor”

Gabriella Ferroni, the Senior Director of Strategic Communications at Delta Dental, discussed the poll’s findings. Ferroni said that “the tooth fairy is a beloved visitor into homes across the country” [1].

Continuing, Ferroni said that the tooth fairy helps to foster “proper oral hygiene habits at an early age, which in turn supports overall health” [1].

Ferroni recommends that parents can “encourage positive dental care” by reminding their children that the tooth fairy “prefers the cleanest, healthiest teeth” [1].

These various steps can all help to promote the importance of oral health to children. This can make them have excellent habits throughout their life which can boost both their oral and physical health.

Thinking points…

1) As shown in the findings above, the tooth fairy can have a positive impact on children. Therefore, if you are a parent, you can utilize the benefits of the tooth fairy! This will reward your children for looking after their teeth and brushing regularly. Regularly reminding children of the tooth fairy and its potential benefits can definitely help! Remember to talk about oral health with your children!

2) Looking after oral health is important for both children and adults. For adults, a great way of setting an example can be to take your children to your own dental check-ups. Furthermore, you can attend your children’s check-ups too! Make sure you attend dental check-ups once every six months, as this will help to keep your oral health strong. We recommend booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

We advise our patients to 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. 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™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

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 clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Delta Dental Plans Association. (2023). Delta Dental poll finds Tooth Fairy welcomed into most U.S. homes. Available: https://www.deltadental.com/us/en/tooth-fairy/press-release.html. Last accessed: 1st September 2023.

Can the Diabetes Medicine Metformin Help Treat Periodontitis?
21Aug
While the medicine Metformin is mainly used in the treatment of Diabetes, recent research has looked at its impact on Periodontitis. Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that impacts many people around the world. Treatment options are limited. But the use of metformin appeared to have a positive impact on periodontitis, with the suggestion that it could become a treatment option in the future.

Periodontitis is a debilitating condition to live with, and can also be exacerbated by numerous conditions, oxidative stress and bacterial changes. Given how easily periodontitis can be exacerbated, treating the condition early is crucial.

There are some treatment options currently. However, these all have limited effectiveness. But now, new research has looked into how the medication Metformin interacts with the numerous areas that can worsen periodontitis [1].

Background

This research was based on the condition Periodontitis, which is a severe form of gum disease. Gum disease is incredibly common, with over half of American adults having the condition [2].

Treatment for gum disease is limited, with scaling and root planing the most common treatments. These involve a dental professional using a special dental instrument to remove the build up of tartar below the gums and removing plaque from tooth surfaces.

The research also involved Metformin – which is a medicine used to predominantly treat Type 2 Diabetes [3]. Metformin works by lowing blood sugar levels and makes the body respond better to insulin.

The Research

The research was carried out by a team of researchers from Chongqing Medical University in China. Their findings were published in the Genes & Diseases journal [1].

The research team sought to find out how metformin would interact with certain cells. There was an interest in how periodontitis would progress when the metformin was introduced [1].

To find out, the research team induced a mouse with periodontitis. Then, metformin was introduced. Subsequently, the research team reviewed the progress of the condition over a period of time [1].

Interestingly, it was found that metformin had a positive impact in numerous areas. Overall, the progress of the rodent’s periodontitis stalled due to the metformin [1].

One benefit that the researchers found was that the metformin helped to reduce the breakdown of bones – known as alveolar bone resorption [1]. This extends to the periodontal tissues – making them more resilient against outside interferences like gum disease.

Another benefit included the metformin being capable of inhibiting oxidative stress [1]. This refers to an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body – which causes damage to the organs. Specifically, metformin was able to lessen oxidative stress levels in the periodontal tissues. Therefore, this was a very positive result.

The anti-inflammatory effects of metformin were also crucial towards lessening the problems from periodontitis [1]. With inflammation being a key element of periodontitis, this particular finding didn’t come as a surprise to the researchers.

What this means

The findings were very positive, with the researchers finding that metformin had a number of benefits in terms of treating periodontitis. The rodent responded positively, with the belief that humans would respond in the same way.

However, when commenting, the research team said that while their study presented “compelling evidence on the protective role of metformin in periodontitis, further research is needed” [4]. This is because this is a rather small study – and so it is difficult to make comprehensive conclusions.

But the researchers commented that they were “optimistic” that their findings will “pave the way for more comprehensive studies” on the relationship between metformin and the bigger picture of periodontitis [4]. Furthermore, they hope that this will ultimately lead “to more effective treatment options” [4].

Given that many people suffer from diabetes and periodontitis, there is hope that in the future, metformin could help patients with both conditions. Therefore, this could improve treatment outcomes for both conditions.

While further research is certainly needed before any conclusions can be made, the initial signs are positive. Metformin definitely appears to have a positive impact, with the chance that it could become a key drug in the treatment of periodontitis in the future.

Thinking points…

1) Gum disease is a very common condition to have. As discussed in the research above, metformin could potentially be used in the future in the treatment of gum disease. However, in the present day, treatment options do exist – with root planing and scaling two common options. If you do have gum disease, we recommend talking to your dentist about your treatment options at your next appointment!

2) Earlier in the article, it was mentioned how important it is for gum disease to be treated early on. The easiest way for gum disease to be detected is through dental check-ups. Therefore, remember to attend a dental clinic at least twice per year. If a dentist does spot signs of gum disease, then they can provide information to help you halt its development. We recommend booking a check-up right away!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

We advise our patients to 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. 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™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

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 clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Sun, B., Ying, S., Ma, Q., Li, H., Li, J., & Song, J. (2023). Metformin ameliorates HMGB1-mediated oxidative stress through mTOR pathway in experimental periodontitis. Genes & Diseases. 10 (2): p542-553. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gendis.2021.06.003.

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2013). Periodontal Disease. Available: https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/periodontal-disease.html. Last accessed: 16th August 2023.

[3] NHS. (2022). About metformin. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/metformin/about-metformin/. Last accessed: 16th August 2023.

[4] Chongqing Medical University. (2023). New study explores the role of metformin in ameliorating oxidative stress in periodontitis. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-08-explores-role-metformin-ameliorating-oxidative.html. Last accessed: 16th August 2023.

Why Has Calgary’s Water Fluoridation Project Been Delayed?
13Aug
In a 2021 plebiscite, the city of Calgary voted to approve Water Fluoridation across the city. However, almost two years later, there has been little progress made. Now, a new memo suggests further delays are ahead, with the expected cost also increasing hugely. Given the oral health benefits of water fluoridation, the hope is that construction will commence soon.

A recent memo from Calgary city administrators has revealed that the cost for Calgary to reinstate water fluoridation will actually be significantly higher than expected. Moreover, the process is also going to take longer than originally planned [1].

The news has resulted in disappointment for many. Furthermore, it may result in the oral health of Calgarians suffering due to the delay.

What is water fluoridation?

Water fluoridation refers to the process where small quantities of the natural mineral fluoride is added to the public water supply. Many countries adopt this practice.

The main benefit of water fluoridation is to oral health, with research consistently showing that water fluoridation is positive for oral health – especially for children [2].

While many support water fluoridation, it isn’t popular universally. Many countries – whether it be for health or ethical concerns – have banned water fluoridation.

Water fluoridation in Calgary

Water fluoridation is a contentious topic in Calgary. In fact, there have been numerous votes and plebiscites for Calgarians to decide whether or not to introduce fluoride to the public water supply – making a vote on the topic somewhat of a time-honored tradition in the city.

In October 2021, a plebiscite on re-introducing fluoridation to the municipal water supply was held. The “yes” vote won, with a 62% majority in support of fluoride being reintroduced to the public water supply [3].

With this vote, the city of Calgary began the process of implementing water fluoridation, with the aim of its introduction to be in June 2024. However, progress has stalled.

The latest updates

A recent memo from the city administration has shown that the upfront cost of fluoridation has risen from $10.1million to $28.1million – representing a colossal increase [1].

The memo explains that the new cost comes after the project has been fully-designed. This includes a construction of a new building located at Bearspaw Aayer Treatment Plant – which had originally not been part of the plan [1].

Furthermore, increases in material costs, maintenance costs and inflation have all been taken into account. Therefore, these various elements have resulted in the cost increasing.

Moreover, the memo also suggests that the expected time of completion has also been delayed. The current proposed completion date is September 2024 – which is three months after the original completion date [1].

These developments are rather disappointing for those that voted in favor of water fluoridation. While delays in a project of this magnitude are common, the enormous rise in cost is concerning.

Is more urgency needed?

Many have suggested that the city’s council needs to act more urgently. Juliet Guichon is the president of Calgarians for Kids’ Health [1]. She has pointed out that a lack of fluoride in the public water supply impacts the oral health of everyone – with children from poorer backgrounds affected the most [1].

Guichon has said that when children have good oral health, “they don’t have trouble sleeping, eating, playing, concentrating, [and] attending school” [1]. Therefore, she has pointed out that water fluoridation is crucial for both oral and physical health.

Additionally, Guichon has argued that the wider healthcare system in Canada will benefit from water fluoridation. She says that fluoridation “reduces dental decay by approximately 25%”, which subsequently results in lower medical costs for both patients and the city [1].

What are the next steps?

The updates from the memo are rather disappointing. However, Calgary does remain on track to receive fluoridated water eventually!

The Calgary City Council will soon be awarding the construction contract to a company that will carry out the works. Then, work will begin, with the hope that in approximately 12 months, fluoridated water will be ready for Calgary.

Thinking points…

1) Whether you are in an area that has fluoridated water or not, remember that oral health is crucial! An important part of looking after your teeth is attending regular dental appointments. This provides a dentist with the opportunity to take a look at your oral health in detail and give advice. It is important to see a dentist at least once every six months. We recommend that you book an appointment soon!

2) If you are in an area that utilizes fluoridated water, remember that this doesn’t give you an excuse to neglect your oral health! You still need to clean your teeth regularly using fluoride toothpaste, have a healthy diet, and attend dental appointments! Some people are unaware of the benefits of fluoride, you could share this article with them now! If you have children, you could also use this news as a reminder of the importance of them looking after their oral health.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

We advise our patients to 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. 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™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

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 clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Di Donato, N. (2023). City of Calgary’s plan to reintroduce fluoride into water system up in cost, delayed. Available: https://calgary.ctvnews.ca/city-of-calgary-s-plan-to-reintroduce-fluoride-into-water-system-up-in-cost-delayed-1.6486569. Last accessed: 11th August 2023.

[2] Harding, M. A., & O’Mullane, D. M. (2013). Water fluoridation and oral health. Acta Medica Academica. 42 (2): p131-139. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5644/ama2006-124.81.

[3] Elections Calgary. (2021). 2021 Results – Calgary General Election. Available: https://www.calgary.ca/election/results/2021-results.html. Last accessed: 11th August 2023.