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Is There a Link Between Sleep Apnea and Oral Health Problems?
5Feb
Recent research has found that there appears to be a link between Sleep Apnea and oral health problems. Sleep apnea affects many people, but as well as posing a risk to physical health, it also impacts oral health. The research suggests those with sleep apnea are more prone to oral health problems, which is important knowledge to have.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a common condition which affects people in their sleep. In worrying but important news, research suggests that the condition is linked to low bone strength in adults [1].

This has an impact on our oral health, as when bones become more brittle, they are easier to break, chip or crack. Therefore, those who have sleep apnea should take extra care with their oral health.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition that involves a person’s breathing stopping and starting while they sleep [2]. They will also typically snore loudly and frequently wake up during the night.

Someone with sleep apnea may also feel tired during the day. It can cause low levels of oxygen in the body, inflammation, heart disease and high blood pressure [2]. Therefore, it can become a dangerous condition.

Treatment is available, and it is a common condition. However, it is a condition that impacts health in many ways – including our oral health.

The Research

The research was conducted by the University at Buffalo [1]. Subsequently, their work was published in The Journal of Craniomandibular and Sleep Practice [1].

The research involved 38 adults participating. Half of the adults had a diagnosis of sleep apnea, while the other half didn’t [1]. This provided the researchers with two distinct groups to compare.

Then, the researchers used a type of X-ray called “cone beam computed tomography” [1]. This was done as a way of measuring bone density in the head and neck of the participants.

They were specifically looking at the left and right lateral regions of the 1st cervical vertebrae and dens of the 2nd cervical vertebrae [1]. The researchers wanted to see how these two groups compared, and notice any patterns.

In order to ensure that the results were not skewed, the researchers controlled their findings for age, sex and weight [1]. This ensured valid results that would be relevant to the wider public.

The scans showed that the participants with sleep apnea had significantly lower bone-mineral density compared to those without the condition [1].

This is concerning, with the authors pointing out that from a dental perspective, a lower bone-mineral density can cause teeth to become loose, dental implants to fail and teeth to become more brittle.

What this means

This research shows that it is very important for individuals with sleep apnea to pay more attention to their oral health, as they become more prone to dental problems.

Thikriat Al-Jewair, an Associate Professor of Orthodontics and senior author of this study, commented on the findings [3]. She says that the findings “offers new evidence” on the connection between sleep apnea and low bone-mineral density, with the study due to “have several implications for orthodontic treatment” [3].

Furthermore, Al-Jewair says that the techniques employed in this study could “become an integral part of daily orthodontic practice and could be used as a screening tool for low bone-mineral density” [3]. Therefore, this would allow dental professionals to inform patients of potential bone-mineral density problems.

Aside from oral health, having a low bone-mineral density can be a sign of Osteoporosis, which involves the bones becoming weak and brittle. This can have physical health implications like increased risk of fractures.

The authors of the study did caution that further research, including with larger sample sizes, is needed [1]. Nevertheless, these are important findings, and highlight the importance of those with sleep apnea taking extra care with their oral health.

Thinking points…

1) Do you have sleep apnea? If so, this is an important article for you, as it shows the potential risks to your oral health. This research shows that you should take extra care with your oral health. We would recommend telling your dentist about your condition, as this can guide their treatment plan for you. You could do so at your next appointment!

2) While many of us don’t have sleep apnea, it is important to remember that we can’t become comfortable with our oral health. We all need to ensure that we have strong oral hygiene. A crucial part of this is to attend a dental clinic for regular check-ups. These check-ups allow a dentist to perform a thorough assessment of your oral health, and recommend treatment if necessary. 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 range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

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.

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] Daljeet, M., Warunek, S., Covell, D. A., Monegro, A., Giangreco, T., & Al-Jewair, T. (2022). Association between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and bone mineral density in adult orthodontic populations. The Journal of Craniomandibular & Sleep Practice. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/08869634.2022.2142724.

[2] NHS. (2022). Sleep apnoea. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/sleep-apnoea/. Last accessed: 3rd February 2023.

[3] Robinson, M. (2023). Obstructive sleep apnea tied to weaker bones and teeth in adults. Available: https://www.buffalo.edu/ubnow/stories/2023/01/bone-density-sleep-apnea.html. Last accessed: 3rd February 2023.

University of Alberta Announces New Dentistry Elective: What Benefit Will It Have?
29Jan
In exciting news, the University of Alberta has announced that a new elective for its dentistry courses will soon commence. The elective gives students a chance to gain experience in dental clinics across Alberta, providing them with valuable knowledge and exposure to real life situations. The hope is that both students and the wider healthcare system will benefit from the elective.

The University of Alberta has announced the creation of a new elective for its Dentistry courses – which will provide students with valuable in-person experience.

This exciting announcement will result in dental students getting strong exposure to real life situations, while learning from dental professionals. It will also benefit the wider public.

About the elective

The University of Alberta have announced that the course will run for two weeks [1]. It has the name of Advance Elective Experiences, with the code DDS 542 [1].

The elective will be open to fourth-year students on the Dentistry program. They will have the chance to visit community dental clinics. Therefore, this will allow the students to see the various treatments and different approaches adopted by different dental clinic.

The students will be placed across Alberta. For example, some students will study their elective at a Calgary dental clinic, while others will attend an Edmonton dental clinic.

What benefits will the elective have?

There are numerous benefits, both to the wider healthcare community and the students themselves. The students will get valuable experience, and the community will contribute to the development of more dental professionals – something that is badly needed!

Dr. Suzy Depledge works in the University of Alberta’s Dentistry department as its Care Director. She led the development of the elective, and has commented on it [1].

Depledge has said that the course will enable the students to be “ready for private practice by the time they’re in fourth year” [1]. Moreover, “it gives students the opportunity to explore what the direction of their career path might be” [1].

Depledge continued by saying that this elective represents a “unique learning opportunity” for students [1]. Furthermore, she says that past students have gone “to pediatric dentist offices, or an oral surgery practice” – which helps students to see if there is a specific area they would like to specialize in [1].

These visits have been completely optional in the past, and often hard to seek for the students due to low awareness. However, these community visits have now become a formal elective.

Depledge has said that the students receive mentorship, which gives them a chance to reflect on which career they want, and give them a chance to identify the skills they need to develop [1].

An example case

The Dentistry department have been building relationships with local community clinics, ready for the rollout of the elective. There have already been some successful partnerships.

Dr. Deb Crowfoot is a dentist in Alberta. Crowfoot has had students working with him before. He has said that the experience is very useful, saying that the students “get to see how it’s done in the real world”, while seeing “a wide variety of dentistry” [1].

One of the students who worked with Crowfoot, Ed Gu, remarked that it was “especially interesting to have an opportunity to see how a dental clinic” works – with Gu visiting a First Nations community, offering an experience that many don’t get [1].

Another student, James Kwan, said that his visit “completely re-shaped my future plans and goals” – which summarizes the impact these visits can have [1].

The future

With the elective upcoming, you might just find that at your next appointment, that you will see a new face!

These students are the future of dentistry, so playing a part in their development will be very valuable to the future of healthcare in Alberta.

Fourth-year students at the University will have the opportunity to complete the elective right away. There will be 52 students taking part in the elective [1].

Thinking points…

1) The creation of this elective is very exciting! There is a big demand for dental services across Alberta. But it is also very important to be part of this demand! Therefore, remember to attend your local dental clinic for check-ups and any subsequent treatment. You could book now – you may even see a student learning from your dentist!

2) Electives and programs like this are crucial in helping with the development of dental professionals for the future. For example, here at our Calgary Dental Clinic Savanna Dental, our staff have all gone through extensive training. This training helps them to look after the oral health needs of our patients. We would love you to come and visit us, see more about us on our homepage https://savannadentalclinic.ca!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

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.

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] University of Alberta. (2023). New dentistry elective lets students explore career options in the dental community. Available: https://www.ualberta.ca/school-of-dentistry/about-us/dentistrynews/2023/01/new-dentistry-elective-lets-students-explore-career-options-in-the-dental-community.html. Last accessed: 27th January 2023.

Why Is It Important To Ignore TikTok’s Dangerous Dental Braces Hack?
8Jan
A new “dental hack” on social media app TikTok is causing significant concern to dentists, amid fears that it could cause severe damage to the oral health of impressionable youngsters. The popular video shows a user using a spoon to remove their braces. This is a very dangerous activity that shouldn’t be undertaken by anyone but a trained professional.

While supposed dental “do it yourself (DIY) hacks” on TikTok are sadly nothing new, every now and then, a very damaging trend that can cause significant harm can become popular.

Recently, one particular trend has developed which has, unbelievably, promoted the idea and supposed benefits of prying off braces with a spoon.

This is just one example of many worrying TikTok trends which have led to substantial concern for dentists. Teenagers and younger people are unwittingly putting themselves at risk of developing long-term oral problems due to these hacks.

TikTok’s Dental Hacks

TikTok is one of the most popular social media apps currently. It has videos on just about any topic, with oral health no different. But not all videos are useful, with some downright damaging.

This includes videos that use the hashtag “DIY dentistry”. This hashtag brings up thousands of videos, many of which promote damaging “hacks” that viewers can do themselves to apparently improve their appearance.

These DIY hacks are targeted at young adults, teenagers and even children. Many people in this age range are highly-impressionable and very conscious of their looks – a concerning duo for oral health.

Infamous hacks put forward including filling in the spaces between teeth with dental filler, and creating a “healthy coke”, which involved using vinegar as a substitute for cola – though the acidic nature of vinegar meant it was far from “healthy”.

Moreover, other hacks have proven popular, including using bleach to whiten teeth and trying to straighten teeth using a nail file. There is so much harm that can be caused by these hacks.

A common reason behind engaging with these hacks is a concern over dental costs. But what so many don’t realise is that by engaging in these hacks, the chances are that they will end up having to go to the dentist to fix the pain that they develop.

The Dangerous Braces Hack

One hack which is currently attracting a lot of interest focuses on braces. The video shows a person prying their braces off with a spoon. Others in the comments suggested a fork could do the same.

However, this is an incredibly dangerous thing to do. By using a foreign instrument in the mouth, bacteria will be introduced into the mouth.

Moreover, the teeth can be damaged by using such vigorous actions. After all, braces are not easily pried off, so the force needed would inevitably damage the teeth.

It is important to remember that when braces are eventually removed, a trained orthodontist will use a special device to loosen the brackets. This really isn’t something that anyone other than a trained professional should do.

As much as people don’t tend to like braces, they are there for a reason! So if a person does pry off the braces, the intended benefits won’t be realized. This creates a negative cycle where they will inevitably need to use braces again, with their teeth unable to naturally correct themselves without the addition of braces.

Therefore, the action brings no benefits, and will actually cause long-term damage. Seeing such videos on TikTok can be very damaging.

Reactions

Many dentists, hygienists and doctors have made comments on these videos on TikTok, urging viewers to not copy what they see. Hopefully, this will have a positive impact.

Then there are also many comments on these videos by those who regret partaking in “DIY dentistry”, often sharing the pain they are in. This will also hopefully act as a deterrent.

Some users have defended the videos, mentioning the cost element. However, others have pointed out that there are many dental schools that offer discounted dental services.

Ben Winters is a dentist on TikTok that goes by the name of “thebentist” [1]. He has over 13million followers, and uses his platform to provide dental advice. He has said that any DIY dentistry effort “is a permanent decision”, as the “teeth are not coming back” [2].

While “lip filler can be dissolved” and “Botox goes away”, Winters has pointed out that “once you alter the shape of your teeth, that is gone forever” [2]. This shows a professional’s viewpoint on the dangers, which hopefully resonates with viewers.

The dental effects of these hacks are terrible. Trauma to the teeth and tooth decay are two very common side effects of any hack, and can lead to irreversible damage. Hopefully, impressionable youngsters will avoid engaging in such activities.

Thinking points…

1) If you have a child or teenager, it is highly likely that they use TikTok. Therefore, they will be exposed to content like this. It is important to have regular conversations with them about their dental health. Furthermore, you can set a good example to your children by looking after your own oral health, which involves visiting a dental clinic for a regular check-up. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) It is very natural for people to not be entirely happy with the appearance of their mouth and teeth. However, it is important to not turn to the “DIY hacks” outlined in this article for assistance. Instead, it is important to leave it to professionals! For example, here at Savanna Dental, we offer a range of cosmetic dentistry solutions, including teeth whitening, Invisalign and implants. We would love to have a conversation with you about treatment options, you can see more about us on our homepage https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental services.

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

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.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™a! 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] TikTok. (2023). thebentist. Available: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebentist. Last accessed: 6th January 2023.

[2] Cutler, A. (2023). No, you shouldn’t pry your braces off with a spoon: TikTok hacks making dentists cringe. Available:

The Canadian Dental Benefit: How Many Families Have Applied?
19Dec
Applications for the Canadian Dental Benefit are in full swing, with thousands of applications already being made. While there have been some concerns about the timing of the benefit becoming available, the early uptake should assuage any concerns. The hope is that the oral health of Canadians will improve over the coming years.

The Canadian Dental Benefit recently opened, and there has already been a strong uptake in applications, in positive news for oral health.

Within the first week of opening, 35,000 people had already applied for the benefit [1]. Considering these are the figures after just one week, there is the expectation that numbers will rise further.

The hope is that oral health among younger people in China will improve significantly in the years to come, as the full positives of this benefit are felt.

What is the Canadian Dental Benefit?

The dental benefit was officially launched on 1st December 2022. This was a key part of the Canadian government’s commitment to assisting citizens through the current cost of living crisis.

The benefit is for families with a child or children under the age of 12 – that are either low or middle-income families that do not have private insurance [2]. Eligible families can receive up to $650 per child each year to assist with the cost of dental care.

This arrangement is a short-term compromise that forms part of the Canadian National Dental Plan. This is a plan between the New Democratic Party and the ruling Liberal Party – as part of their supply and confidence agreement.

The long-term aim is to provide assistance to all Canadian citizens, rather than just children. This should result in a vast improvement in the oral health of Canadians.

Early Uptake in Applications

There has been a very positive response to the benefit. Within just a week of applications opening, there have been 35,000 applications [1]! This represents a very strong start to the plan.

The figure came in a meeting at the House of Commons. A question from an opposition member asked how many people had applied, following concerns over the timing of the plan, and the cost to the government and taxpayer.

Social Development Minister Karina Gould said that 35,000 people had applied for the benefit [1]. This helped to ease concerns over the plan from the opposition.

This is a very strong figure. The numbers are expected to rise further in the coming weeks. Moreover, as the benefit opens up to more people, more applications are expected to come in.

The government has said that they expect to receive approximately 500,000 applications for the benefit program [1].

Claiming the Benefit

If you wish to join the 35,000 existing applications, you can apply through the Canadian Revenue Agency [3].

Families need to provide the name of the child’s dentist or dental hygienist, the date or month of the appointment and employer information. As mentioned, there are other eligibility requirements, mainly around family income.

These are certainly positive times for Canadian oral health. We will hopefully see an improvement over the next few years, especially in children.

Thinking points…

1) The Dental Benefit has certainly proven popular so far. One reason behind this is the cost of dental care in Canada. However, here at Savanna Dental, our prices are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. Therefore, our fees are fully transparent and trustworthy. We would love you to visit our Calgary dental clinic soon!

2) In the forthcoming years, the National Dental Plan will be launched. While this is exciting, anyone who is planning on waiting for the plan to be created before going to the dentist is running a very high risk. Remember, dental problems don’t get better on their own, and will actually worsen over time. Therefore, it is important to continue to attend dental appointments in the interim. We would love you to visit our Calgary dental clinic soon for a check-up, why not book an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

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.

Here at [clinic], 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] Osman, L. (2022). Federal child dental benefit has seen 35,000 applications in first week: minister. Available: https://globalnews.ca/news/9333855/canada-federal-child-dental-benefit/. Last accessed: 16th December 2022.

[2] Ontario Dental Association. (2022). Canadian Dental Care Plan. Available: https://www.oda.ca/visiting-the-dentist/government-dental-programs/canadian-dental-care-plan/. Last accessed: 16th December 2022.

[3] Government of Canada. (2022). Canadian Dental Benefit How to apply. Available: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/dental-benefit/how-apply.html. Last accessed: 16th December 2022.

The CDC Confirm Outbreak of Dental Infection: What Happened and What To Look Out For?
14Nov
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued a warning following confirmation of a recent outbreak of a nontuberculous mycobacteria infection. This appears to have been caused by contaminated water lines in some dental clinics. Now, medical professionals are urging parents to look out for symptoms in their children and themselves. Fortunately, treatment is available for those who have caught the infection.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued a warning that some American children have caught a serious infection from contaminated water lines in some dental clinics [1].

The infection, caused by a bacteria type called Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) is rare. But small clusters of cases in recent years have taken place, with the CDC now becoming aware of another recent cluster [1].

The harmful bacteria lodge in the narrow water lines of dental equipment. This equipment is used for everything – from routine cavity fillings to more complex procedures like root canal treatments.

What is Nontuberculous Mycobacteria?

NTM is a type of bacteria. It is found in water, marshland and soil. However, it shouldn’t be confused with mycobacteria tuberculous – which causes Tuberculosis.

While children are predominantly at risk, adults can also be affected. Infections typically occur after either wisdom teeth extractions or root canal treatments [1].

One of the most notorious past outbreaks of NTM came in California in 2016 [1]. 71 patients were treated for NTM infection [1].

NTM is not the only infection or disease linked to dental water lines. For example, Legionella Disease is another type of bacteria that has contaminated water supplies in dental clinics in the past [3].

The new outbreak

This most recent outbreak was in March 2022, which the CDC was alerted to [2]. An investigation into this new outbreak is being carried out by the CDC [2].

Initial visits to the dental clinic under investigation found that the tested water line resulted in microbial counts far higher than the level recommended by the CDC [2].

Symptoms and treatment of an NTM infection

The symptoms of an NTM infection usually involve swelling in the jaw or neck. Moreover, an abscess, pain, weight loss, night sweats and general fever are other symptoms to look out for [4]. Symptoms do not always appear immediately. Instead, they can slowly appear.

If left alone, hearing loss, permanent tooth loss and facial nerve palsy are potential consequences [1]. This underlines the importance of getting help if you believe you have an NTM infection.

NTM infections usually get worse over time [1]. Treatment usually requires surgical removal of the diseased tissue. This can result in loss of the jawbone, and potentially even teeth [1]. Antibiotics are commonly prescribed as part of a multi-drug regimen [1].

In every case in the past that has involved NTM infection following dental treatment, a surgical procedure has been required to resolve the issue [1]. Therefore, this shows the possible damage of an NTM infection.

The CDC’s comments

Dr. Michele Neuburger is a dental officer within the CDC’s Division of Oral Health. She commented on this development. She says that “NTM infections following dental procedures are very serious” [1].

Neuburger continued by warning that “these infections can be resistant to antibiotic treatment”, before calling them “difficult to treat” [1].

Continuing, Neuburger says that “if dental water lines are not maintained properly and regularly treated with germicides, these bacteria, along with other microorganisms in the water, will attach to the interior surfaces of the water-line tubing and form a biofilm, which serves as a reservoir where microorganisms can grow and increase in numbers” [1].

Neuburger continued to explain by saying that “pieces of biofilm can break off into the water system and then be released into the patient’s mouth” [1].

Furthermore, Neuburger has urged parents to contact their dentist immediately if they suspect themselves or a child of theirs has developed an NTM infection [1].

The CDC have made some recommendations to dental clinics. These include the regular use of chemical germicides in the water lines – which can help in lessening the threat of bacteria.

It is important for dental clincis to follow these guidelines. Moreover, this involves maintaining equipment and following safety procedures for water to ensure that it is safe for use.

These infections are rare, but do happen. Remaining vigilant both before and after dental treatment is important. Our oral health is crucial, and should always be a priority for us all.

Thinking points…

1) While this is concerning, do not let this put you off attending the dentist. Please remember that NTM infections are very rare. Visiting the dentist is very important for both yourself and your children. Regular check-ups can help to ensure your oral health is strong, and identify any potential problems. Remember to book an appointment when needed!

2) If this news makes you anxious, you’ll be pleased to hear that at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental, safety is of the utmost importance to us. We follow the designated guidelines to ensure our water supply is safe for patients. Furthermore, our dental staff are always happy to talk you through treatments, and reassure you about the water supply. We would love to see you soon – see our website for more information!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

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.

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] Reinberg, S. (2022). CDC warns of rare bacterial infections from dentists’ water lines. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-11-cdc-rare-bacterial-infections-dentists.html. Last accessed: 12th November 2022.

[2] CDC Health Alert Network. (2022). Outbreaks of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Infections Highlight Importance of Maintaining and Monitoring Dental Waterlines. Available: https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2022/han00478.asp. Last accessed: 12th November 2022.

[3] Atlas, R. M., Williams, J. F., & Huntington, M. K. (1995). Legionella contamination of dental-unit waters. Applied and Environmental Microbiology. 61 (4): p1208-1213. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1128/aem.61.4.1208-1213.1995.

[4] Asthma + Lung UK. (2022). Non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection (NTM). Available: Last accessed: 12th November 2022.

Canadian National Dental Benefit Passes Third Reading: What Now?
6Nov
The new Canadian National Dental Benefit continues to get closer. The House of Commons has passed the dental benefit bill, having gained enough backing for it to pass its third reading. While there are still some steps to go, this decision has led to excitement for many, with the bill likely to help improve the oral health of many Canadians over the next few years.

The proposed Canadian National Dental Benefit continues to get closer, with the bill clearing another hurdle recently.

Members of Parliament in The House of Commons passed the dental benefit bill, with the bill gaining the support of 172 of the 310 MP’s that voted.

While there are still some steps remaining, the dental benefit is closer to coming to fruition. Soon, qualifying families will be able to benefit from financial assistance towards dental care for their children.

Background

The dental plan is a key part of the supply and confidence agreement between the Liberals and the New Democratic Party (NDP). For the NDP, implementing the dental plan has been one of their key objectives as a political party.

The original expectation was for the dental plan to be ready by the end of 2022. However, with this not happening, the Liberals reached a compromise by initially offering a benefit program [1].

The benefit will provide assistance for dental fees for families with a household income of below $90,000 [2]. At first, those aged under 12 will benefit. Families can receive up to $650 per year towards dental care for their child [2].

While the plans are still being finalised, currently, the idea is that qualifying families will need to provide the Canada Revenue Agency with the name and address of their licensed dental practitioner, along with the month of their planned appointment [3].

Passing the third reading in the House of Commons

In the latest key moment of the process towards confirming the benefit, the bill was able to pass its third reading in the House of Commons. However, there was some opposition from the Conservatives and the Bloc.

The bill had 172 supporters – mainly from the Liberals and the NDP. 138 MP’s dissented – from the Conservatives and the Bloc Quebecois party [1].

As the number of dissenters suggests, there have been some concerns raised. For example, it has been questioned whether or not now is the right time for such an investment to be made, given the rising inflation seen in recent times [4].

Andrew Scheer – Conservative House Leader – was among those unimpressed [1]. He said that by handing out cash, that the government would be contributing to inflation, and actually make the cost of living crisis worse [1].

Then, there was also the concern raised by Parliamentary Budget Officer Yves Giroux, who argued that the dental benefit is vulnerable to fraud [4]. He has told the government that robust verification methods need to be in place to protect against fraud [4].

But for the Liberals and the NDP, the positives outweighed the negatives. They were happy to support the bill, believing that it is a step in the right direction.

Jagmeet Singh, leader of the NDP – was understandably delighted. He said that “the Conservatives fought us at every chance — but we didn’t stop pushing and we’re not done fighting” [5].

Similarly, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the “legislation is off to the Senate, and Canadians are one step closer to getting this support” [5].

What next?

The benefit is getting closer. Its next step is to make its way through the Senate. Finally, it will then need to receive royal assent. Once this is done, families will be able to apply [1].

Once the benefit has been confirmed, the government will get to work on the next phase of the plan. The aim is for a full rollout of the national dental plan to be in place by 2025 [2].

Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos has spoken about this. He says that “there will be a second program that will be better suited to the dental-health care that other Canadians, including the younger children, will need over time, that includes seniors, people with disabilities, people with relatively low- or middle-income ranges” [6]. We are gradually getting ever closer to the dental plan!

Thinking points…

1) This dental benefit will initially be for those aged 12 and under. It is likely to be a few years before the wider population can benefit. Therefore, it is important for us all to keep looking after our oral health. An important part of this is getting regular dental checks-ups, as this can help to ensure that your oral health is strong, and for any problems to be noticed and acted upon. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) One of the most appealing aspects of the dental benefit is the fact that existing dental fees can be very expensive. Many people struggle to afford dental fees. However, here at Savanna Dental, our fees are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which ensures transparency and no nasty surprise costs. To find out more, or to have a conversation with us about your oral health or needs, we would love for you to get in touch with us!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

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.

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] Osman, L. (2022). Federal dental care benefit gets go-ahead from House of Commons. Available: https://www.ctvnews.ca/mobile/politics/federal-dental-care-benefit-gets-go-ahead-from-house-of-commons-1.6128693. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

[2 Tunney, C. (2022). Liberals agree to launch dental care program in exchange for NDP support. Available: https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/trudeu-jagmeet-singh-deal-government-1.6393021. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

[3] Osman, L. (2022). Dental-care legislation among first bills on docket as Parliament resumes. Available: https://edmontonsun.com/news/national/dental-care-legislation-among-first-bills-on-docket-as-parliament-resumes/wcm/d8f9f155-aa51-440c-8b23-52264d179c8f/amp/. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

[4] Al Mallees, N. (2022). New dental benefit vulnerable to fraud without verification measures: PBO. Available: https://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/new-dental-benefit-vulnerable-to-fraud-without-verification-measures-pbo-1.6124065. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

[5] Docto, I. (2022). Canadians are one step closer to getting a universal dental care program. Available: https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/dental-care-program-passes-parliament. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.

[6] Pangilinan, M. (2022). Officials share plans for federal dental care benefit. Available: https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/ca/news/breaking-news/officials-share-plans-for-federal-dental-care-benefit-425767.aspx. Last accessed: 4th November 2022.