Category: General Dentistry

The Sioux Lookout region is in the midst of a “dental crisis”, according to a local health authority. The federal government has subsequently been urged to intervene and provide much-needed support to the area. The region is home to a large indigenous population – a group that has long-faced difficulties in accessing healthcare.

The Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority (SLFNHA) have called on the federal government to step in and provide help for a situation that they have described as a “dental crisis” [1].

The SLFNHA have frequently levelled allegations of a lack of care from the government towards the Sioux Lookout region in recent years.

Sioux Lookout has a large indigenous population, and this situation is arguably indicative of a wider problem for indigenous people in terms of trying to access dental care.

Sioux Lookout

Sioux Lookout is a region in Northwestern Ontario, with a population of around 5,000. Many people know the area as a summer holiday destination, or as a location with many rivers and beaches.

But the region is also home to a large proportion of indigenous people [2]. The indigenous people have a long history in the region, dating back hundreds of years.

Sioux Lookout has a large demand for healthcare services, though these needs are rarely met, with healthcare resources in the area stretched – especially dental services [3].

The Crisis

As mentioned, the SLFNHA have called the current oral health situation in Sioux Lookout a “dental crisis”.

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on dental services across Canada, with the Sioux Lookout area amongst the worst hit areas.

In line with government guidance and advice, dental services were restricted to emergency and urgent needs only throughout much of 2020 due to Covid-19.

The problems have got so bad in Sioux Lookout, that one resident actually died after their dental infection was not treated properly, leading to an eventual death through sepsis [4].

Dr. Terri Farrell is the medical director of the SLFNHA, and she stated that the death was “preventable”, and was caused by the “appalling lack of dental services for the communities served by SLFNHA” [4].

Farrell went on to say that hundreds of children “are in pain” and “becoming malnourished due to an inability to eat” – something caused by a growing waitlist for dental operations for children in the area [4].

The struggles facing indigenous people

As mentioned, Sioux Lookout has a large proportion of indigenous people. Dr. Farrell is correct in stating that there are problems facing children in the area, which is contributing to the dental crisis.

These problems have been long-standing too, but exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. A 2004 study found approximately 70% of indigenous children living on reserves in Canada have experienced tooth decay by the time they turn 3 years old, a number that increases to 87% by the time they have turned 5 [5].

These results were backed up by the findings of a 2010 study, which concluded that 86% of First Nations children between the ages of 3 and 5 have experienced a form of tooth decay [6].

The problems don’t just apply to children. Indigenous people all across Canada face barriers to getting much-needed healthcare. Studies show that these barriers include racism, discrimination and cost [7].

With 1.7million people in Canada identifying as indigenous, this is clearly a problem that affects a huge amount of people. The dental crisis means that a huge number of people are in desperate need of dental operations.

Response

The federal government has stated that they are working with the SLFNHA and other health partners to try and support and improve dental services in the area.

Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) is an organisation that is responsible for the management of policies relating to the indigenous population of Canada.

The ISC have been heavily criticised by the SLFNHA, who have stated that the ISC have backtracked on a plan to create a new dental clinic in Sioux Lookout [4].

The ISC have defended themselves however, pointing to a recent increase in service levels, including providing care to over 7,000 patients in the region from November 2020 to June 2021 [8].

The problems caused by poor oral health

As mentioned above, there is a large oral health problem facing this region. Oral health problems are not just limited to this part of Canada though, with professionals stating that the dental industry is facing a “dental disaster”(click here to read more).

Covid-19 has led to regular dentist appointments to be suspended, with urgent and emergency cases prioritized. This has meant many people will have undetected dental problems.

Poor oral health can cause a range of problems, including cavities, gum disease, and potentially even mouth cancer.

It is therefore very important for us to all brush our teeth at least twice a day, floss regularly, have a nutritious diet, and attend regular dental check-ups – typically a minimum of two per-year.

What we offer our patients at Savanna Dental

Here at Savanna Dental, we provide a range of services suited to the needs of our patients. We provide a relaxing and comfortable environment for our patients in a convenient location within Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Among the services offered at Savanna Dental include regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals and dentures among other services. We also offer some cosmetic dentistry treatments too, such as teeth whitening.

Through regular check-ups, problems can be detected and treated accordingly. When further treatment is needed, we provide a tailored treatment plan to our patients, and ensure that they have a voice in their treatment options.

Our Calgary-based dental practice also adheres to the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which allows us to provide affordable care to our patients. With cost being a barrier to accessing dental services for many people, having full knowledge of fees ahead of an appointment can be very useful.

Summary

Sioux Lookout is facing a very difficult dental health situation, with these problems being replicated across Canada. As we gradually return to normal life, the aim is to provide the much-needed oral care to the Canadian population.

We would love you to visit our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental! We care deeply about our patients, and our staff are always on-hand to help. Click here to visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca, where you can see the range of services and treatments we provide our patients with.

• [1] CBC News. (2021). Dental crisis facing area First Nations, says Sioux Lookout health authority. Available: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/dental-care-sioux-lookout-first-nations-1.6075320. Last accessed: 26 June 2021.
• [2] The Mayors Truth and Reconciliation Committee. (2017). The Municipality of Sioux Lookout. Available: https://www.siouxlookout.ca/en/your-local-government/resources/Appended-Doc-2-First-Annual-Report-of-the-Mayors-Committee-on-Truth-and-Reconiliation-Nov-2017.pdf. Last accessed: 24 June 2021.
• [3] Janis, M. (2011). A Dental Hygienist Who’s A Lakota Sioux Calls For New Mid-Level Dental Providers. Health Affairs. 30 (10), p2013-2016.
• [4] Rinne, G. (2021). Sioux Lookout-area First Nations in ‘dental crisis’, health authority says. Available: https://www.tbnewswatch.com/local-news/sioux-lookout-area-first-nations-in-dental-crisis-health-authority-says-3880775. Last accessed: 24 June 2021.
• [5] Lawrence, H. P., Romanetz, M., Rutherford, L., Cappel, L., Binguis, D., & Rogers, J. B. (2004). Oral Health of Aboriginal Preschool Children in Northern Ontario. PROBE. 38 (4), p172-190.
• [6] First Nations Information Governance Centre. (2010). Report on the findings of the First Nations Oral Health Survey 2009–10.
• [7] Nelson, S. E., & Wilson, K. (2018). Understanding barriers to health care access through cultural safety and ethical space: Indigenous people’s experiences in Prince George, Canada. Social Science & Medicine. 218 (1), p21-27.
• [8] Rinne, G. (2021). Indigenous Services Canada working with First Nations to improve dental services. Available: https://www.tbnewswatch.com/local-news/indigenous-services-canada-working-with-first-nations-to-improve-dental-services-3895766. Last accessed: 25 June 2021.

Research has shown that a Vitamin C deficiency can cause bleeding gums, which is an early warning sign of gum disease. When we increase our intake of Vitamin C, these problems are reversed. It is therefore crucial that we consider our Vitamin C intake, as this can have several benefits for our oral health.

Having bleeding gums presents both short and long-term problems. Aside from being unpleasant, bleeding gums are also usually a sign of gingivitis, which is an early stage of periodontal disease – better known as gum disease.

While having bleeding gums doesn’t necessarily mean that a person has gum disease, it is often an early warning sign, with gum swelling typically the other main symptom to look out for.

Gum disease is actually very common, with research showing that approximately 90% of the world’s population has some form of periodontal disease [1].

If left untreated, bleeding gums can result in gums pulling away from the teeth, which will eventually result in tooth loss and bone problems.

In the past, most dental professionals have treated bleeding gums by advising patients to simply brush and floss more regularly. But while this might help to an extent, it doesn’t treat the underlying causes.

But recent research shows that a main cause of bleeding gums is a Vitamin C deficiency. This interesting research suggests that by increasing our Vitamin C intake, we have the potential to improve our oral health.

What is the research?

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Washington has found a link between a Vitamin C deficiency and bleeding gums [2].

To do this, the researchers analysed the results of 15 clinical trials across 6 different countries that had revolved around nutrition, diet and general health. These 15 trials involved 1,140 “mostly healthy” participants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Health and Nutrition Examination Survey of 8,210 US citizens was also used as part of the research.

The results showed that individuals with low Vitamin C levels in their bloodstream were far more likely to suffer from bleeding gums. Most importantly, the researchers also found that increasing daily intake of Vitamin C can reverse the issue of bleeding gums.

This research also backed up previous work that had been done in the subject area. This included a study that reviewed 14 previous studies that had analysed Vitamin C intake and the subsequent effect on the gums. Like the above study, this research found that those with a lower Vitamin C intake had a higher chance of having periodontal disease [3].

In fact, a diet with a regular deficiency in Vitamin C can lead to oral side effects as soon as within 60-90 days [4].

What you need to know about Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the many vitamins that the body requires to function at an optimum level. It is also known as ascorbic acid.

Vitamin C serves many functions in our body, including helping to protect cells and keep them healthy. It also strengthens bones, and is crucial in aiding the process of wound healing [5].

As established above, a lack of Vitamin C can cause bleeding gums, though other signs exist too. These include slow-healing wounds and swollen joints [6].

If the body doesn’t get enough Vitamin C on a consistent and regular basis, the life-threatening condition Scurvy can eventually appear.

Should I consume more food with Vitamin C?

Based on the results of this study, we would certainly suggest that there are benefits to consuming more sources of Vitamin C.

Foods that are high in Vitamin C include citrus fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit), broccoli, red bell peppers, blackcurrant and strawberries.

Vitamin C supplements are widely available, and can be a good way to ensure we get the recommended amount of the vitamin. This is a particularly useful intervention for those who have diets low in Vitamin C.

But as we always say here at Savanna Dental, while it is important to eat a balanced diet, it is crucial that we maintain strong oral health. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and making healthy lifestyle decisions like avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

The most important thing is to ensure that you attend the dentist for regular check-ups. The earlier that problems are detected, the easier treatment will be.

When problems are detected, we are able to offer our patents a range of services at our dental clinic in Calgary. Whether it is purely an examination, a filling or more complex procedures like a root canal or dentures, we are able to provide the treatment that our patients need.

We offer our patients a relaxed and comfortable environment at our Calgary-based dental clinic, and are able to provide tailored care to each of our patients.

Here at Savanna Dental, we adhere to the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which allows us to provide affordable care to our patients across our wide range of services.

Summary

Consuming more Vitamin C can be useful for many reasons. It certainly appears to help our oral health, with the research consistently showing that an increased intake of Vitamin C can stop bleeding gums.

This is useful advice, though it is important to maintain excellent oral hygiene. An important part of this is to regularly visit the dentist. Our dental clinic in Calgary is an excellent place to do this.

We recommend that you take a look at our website https://savannadental.ca, where you can read more about us and what we offer to our patients.

• [1] Pihlstrom, B. L., Michalowicz, B. S., & Johnson, N. W. (2005). Periodontal diseases. Lancet. 366 (9499), p1809-1820.
• [2] Hujoel, P. P., Kato, T., Hujoel, I. A., & Hujoel, M. L. A. (2021). Bleeding tendency and ascorbic acid requirements: systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Nutrition Reviews. nuaa115
• [3] Tada, A., & Miura, H. (2019). The Relationship between Vitamin C and Periodontal Diseases: A Systematic Review. International journal of environmental research and public health, 16 (14), p2472-2483.
• [4] Levine, M., Katz, A., & Padavaity, S. J. (2005). Vitamin C. In: Shils, M. E., Shike. M., Ross, A. C., Caballero, B., & Cousins, R. J. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 10th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. p507-524.
• [5]. NHS. (2020). Vitamin C. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-c/. Last accessed: 29 May 2021.
• [6] Galimberti, F., & Mesinkovska, N. A. (2016). Skin findings associated with nutritional deficiencies. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. 83 (10), p731-739.

A plant-based diet has the potential to have a positive effect on our oral health, with benefits including lessening inflammation of the gums, lowering sugar intake and possibly preventing oral cancer. But the evidence isn’t all positive, and a plant-based diet doesn’t act as a replacement for strong oral hygiene.

The link between a nutritious diet and strong oral health is well-known, but how does a plant-based diet effect our dental health? With plant-based diets becoming increasingly popular in recent years, it is important to consider this diet’s impact on oral health.

While a plant-based diet can take many forms, it will typically consist of foods derived from plants – such as vegetables, fruits, nuts and beans. Across Canada, many people are choosing to adopt plant-based diets, underlining their popularity.

Plant-based diets are known to have many physical health benefits, such as stimulating weight loss, lowering cholesterol levels and decreasing the chances of cardiovascular disease [1].

But as well as physical health benefits, plant-based diets can have a positive effect on dental health, as we show in this article. However, there are some important considerations to be made.

Plant-based diet’s effect on oral health

Oral health continues to be very problematic for many people, with the World Health Organization going as far to say that untreated dental caries is the most common health condition worldwide [2].

The effect of a plant-based diet on oral health is a very-well studied area, with results largely pointing to plant-based diets having a positive effect on oral health, albeit with some caveats.

Mouth cancer presents one of the most serious issues in oral health (click here to read more). Figures from the Canadian Cancer Statistics found that in 2020, an estimated 5,400 Canadians were diagnosed with oral cancer, with the condition causing 1,500 deaths [3]. The American Dental Association have stated that “current evidence supports a diet high in fruits, vegetables and plant-based foods for prevention of oral cancer [4], which shows how a plant-based diet is considered to contribute to preventing oral cancer.

One of the biggest problems facing the population in the modern day is periodontal disease – better known as gum disease. Signs of gum disease include swelling (also known as inflammation) and redness around the gum.

A plant-based diet can lessen inflammation, as it is normally high in a form of acid known as gamma-linoleic acid, which is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties [5].

Furthermore, one study found that participants with a vegetable-based diet (similar to a plant-based diet) had significantly fewer symptoms of gum disease than study participants that had more of a more conventional and traditional diet [6].

As well as having anti-inflammation qualities, plant-based diets also typically cut out a lot of sugar – something that is a key cause of many oral health problems. Sugar has a debilitating impact on teeth, and is one of the leading drivers of tooth decay and eventual cavities.

Foods and beverages that contain refined sugars (essentially the unhealthiest type of sugar) are notoriously bad for our teeth. Foods and drinks high in refined sugars include ice cream, confectionery and soda. They are known to increase inflammation and acidity in the mouth.

Again, by using a plant-based diet, refined sugars are largely avoided. While sugar will still be consumed, such as in fruits, these are at least naturally occurring sugars which are less harmful to the mouth.

A word on citrus fruits

While there are clearly positives, as outlined above, it is important to mention the negative impact that citrus fruits can have. Studies show that citrus fruits such as lemons, limes and oranges can erode tooth enamel faster than sources of refined sugars.

One large study found that by consuming citrus fruits more than twice a day was associated with 37 times greater odds of dental erosion when compared to those who didn’t. For comparison, those that had a daily can of soda had 4 times greater odds of dental erosion than those who avoided soda [7].

This study suggests that it is important to consume citrus fruits in moderation, and serves as a reminder that just because a food is seen as “healthy”, it doesn’t mean that it is totally free from harm.

Should I start having a plant-based diet?

The most important thing for our health (both oral and physical) is to have a well-balanced and nutritious diet. This doesn’t mean that you must have a plant-based diet!

While this diet does clearly have a positive effect on our oral health, it is too restrictive for some people.

But what we can all do as a minimum is to add more vegetables to our meals and continue good oral habits. This incudes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, avoiding sugary snacks where possible, and visiting the dentist on a regular basis for check-ups.

What we can offer at Savanna Dental

Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental offers our patients a huge range of services. We provide all of our patients with a comfortable environment, and are situated in a convenient location in Calgary.

Early detection of dental problems is crucial, which is why it is important to attend regular dental check-ups. If further treatment is required, we will provide you with a tailored and effective treatment plan that meets your circumstances.

Summary

As we have shown, plant-based diets do have the potential to be excellent for our oral health. But regardless of the diet chosen, there is no replacement for regular dental check-ups and strong oral hygiene.

We would love you to visit our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental, click here to visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca where you can take a look at the services that are available to our patients.

• [1] Mazur, M., Bietolini, S., Bellardini, D., Lussi, A., Corridore, D., Maruotti, A., Ottolenghi, L., Vozza, I., & Guerra, F. (2020). Oral health in a cohort of individuals on a plant-based diet: a pilot study. La Clinica Terapeutica. 171 (2), p142-148.
• [2] United Nations General Assembly. (2011). High Level Meeting on Prevention and Control of Non-communicable Diseases. Available: https://www.un.org/en/ga/ncdmeeting2011/. Last accessed: 14th May 2021.
• [3] Canadian Cancer Society. (2020). Oral Cavity Cancer Statistics. Available: https://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/oral/statistics/?region=on. Last accessed: 9th April 2021.
• [4] Chainani-Wu, N., Epstein, J., & Touger-Decker, R. (2011). Diet and prevention of oral cancer: strategies for clinical practice. Journal of the American Dental Association. 142 (2), p166-169.
• [5] Rett, B. S., & Whelan, J. (2011). Increasing dietary linoleic acid does not increase tissue arachidonic acid content in adults consuming Western-type diets: a systematic review. Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism. 10 (8), p36.
• [6] Staufenbiel, I., Weinspach, K., Forster, G., Geurtsen, W., & Gunay, H. (2013). Periodontal conditions in vegetarians: a clinical study. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 67 (8), p836-840.
• [7] Järvinen, V. K., Rytömaa, I. I., & Heinonen, O. P. (1991). Risk factors in dental erosion. Journal of Dental Research. 70 (6), p942-947.