Category: Dentistry

Research has showed that a type of bacteria can help to fight Gum Disease, whilst also supporting gum health. Because of how common gum disease is, this finding is capable of being very useful for many people. The researchers used a probiotic with a certain strain of bacteria, which they found helped to stave off the threat of gum disease.

In an interesting finding, scientists have uncovered a new way to fight gum disease whilst supporting gum health.

In even better news, this way of helping our gums may already be part of your daily routine! If it isn’t – you may want to implement this method.

The researchers found that daily probiotic use can have a positive effect on our oral health, and reduces cases of gum disease [1].

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are defined by the NHS as “live bacteria and yeasts promoted as having various health benefits” [2]. They are often used as food supplements, and considered to be a healthy form of bacteria.

Different types of bacteria can be added to the probiotics – depending on the purpose behind their consumption. They have been becoming increasingly popular in recent years.

Probiotics support many people with their health goals. Moreover, many people find that using probiotics improves their gut health. While everyone reacts differently to probiotics, in theory they can have many positive effects.

Research

The research was carried out by a team at the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Subsequently, their findings were published in the Clinical Oral Investigations journal [1].

The research involved 60 patients with an existing diagnosis of gingivitis – a mild form of gum disease [1].

They were split into two groups, with one group being given probiotic lozenges, and the other group receiving placebo lozenges [1]. The probiotic lozenges had the bacterial strain Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 in them.

The lozenges were consumed twice a day for 2 months, with the researchers interested in finding out what impact the probiotics had. They would be able to compare their findings to that of the placebo group.

Tests and scans were taken at the start of the study, and were then repeated at the end of the study, allowing the researchers to gauge how the probiotics had affected one group, in contrast to the other.

The findings were positive! The group with the probiotics had a larger number of patients without generalized gingivitis [1]. Therefore, it appeared that the probiotics were able to fight against gum disease.

Moreover, there were other added benefits. The researchers also saw that those who consumed the probiotics witnessed a reduction in plaque, and less bleeding upon probing [1]. Therefore, there were many positive results.

What this means

The researchers concluded that probiotics can have a very positive impact on oral health. Because of these findings, the researchers believe that probiotics could preserve gum and oral health, and stave off the threat of gum disease.

Having treatments like this is very important, especially due to the damage that gum disease can do. For example, gum disease has the potential to cause tissue damage and bone loss [3].

Probiotics could soon become part of the daily routine of many. As well as having a positive effect on our oral health, they can also benefit our general health in many ways.

As a result of this research, we now know that probiotics that contain Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 have the potential to improve our oral health. It may be worthwhile adding this to your day-to-day oral routine!

Thinking points…

1) This research focused on the impact that probiotics can have on gum disease. Gum disease affects a huge number of people, and can cause debilitating problems including jaw problems, chewing difficulties, bone loss and loose teeth. But the good news is that help is available! It is important to see your dentist regularly, as they can provide tailored advice to help keep your mouth healthy! We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) When we think of bacteria, we instantly tend to think of this being a bad thing. But as the research above shows, this isn’t always the case! This research shows how the Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 bacteria can actually be helpful. When thinking of purchasing probiotics, you could have a conversation with your dentist, just to check that they approve of the supplement. You could have a discussion with your dentist at your next appointment!

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.

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] de Almedia Silva Levi, Y. L., Costa Ribeiro, M., Félix Silva, P. H., Silva, G. A., de Souza Salvador, S. L., Scombatti de Souza, S. L., Casarin, R., Novaes Júnior, A. B., Júnior, M. T., Palioto, D. B., Honórie H. M., Messora, M. R., & Furlaneto, F. A. C. (2023). Effects of oral administration of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HN019 on the treatment of plaque-induced generalized gingivitis. Clinical Oral Investigations. 27 (1): p387-398. DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.1007%2Fs00784-022-04744-y.

[2] NHS. (2022). Probiotics. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/probiotics/. Last accessed: 23rd February 2023.

[3] Fant, J. (2023). This Type Of Bacteria Could Stave Off Gum Disease, Study Finds. Available: https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/probiotics-for-oral-health. Last accessed: 23rd February 2023.

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.

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: