Category: General Dentistry

A group of oral specialists have urged multiple stakeholders to take action regarding the declining oral health of children in Aotearoa New Zealand. The specialists have found that a huge number of children have tooth decay – capable of causing oral damage. Certain groups are more vulnerable than others, with multiple changes needing to be made.

A group of oral health specialists have said that urgent changes need to be made to combat the declining dental health of children in Aotearoa New Zealand.

However, the specialists have mentioned that the problem is too large for just one service to solve. Instead, they have urged multiple stakeholders across Aotearoa New Zealand to act together to improve this dire situation.

Background

Aotearoa New Zealand has a long history of providing publicly funded dental care for children and young people [1]. This is something that many countries offer. In fact, an increasing number of nations are turning to such a model, with Europe’s Spain among the most recent to take steps towards this [2].

Despite this, dental decay is the most common non-communicative disease among children in Aotearoa New Zealand [1]. However, certain groups across the nation fare worse.

For example, the Māori and Pasifika people, those from low socio-economic backgrounds, and those without access to community water fluoridation are most affected [1].

By the time children become teenagers, 5.6% of Māori people have experienced dental decay [1]. 70% of Pasifika people have experienced tooth decay – underlining the terrible situation facing some people [1].

The report

A group of oral specialists provided a report on the current situation. It was led by Senior Lecturer in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Otago – Dr. Dorothy Boyd [1].

Dr. Boyd has been particularly concerned about the damage tooth decay does to children. She says that “all children deserve to eat, sleep, learn and play without dental pain and oral infection” [3].

But the report found that a “tsunami” of childhood caries is developing [1]. The dental system in Aotearoa New Zealand is under significant pressure – including long waiting times, lack of communication between different care sectors, and disparities in healthcare access across the country [1].

The report highlighted the issue of disparities in healthcare across the country as something particularly important [1]. This disparity has led to some children having better access to dental treatment than others.

Other issues include how certain demographics live in poverty, meaning travelling to dental clinics can be difficult. Then there are also those who live in areas without fluoridated public water [1]. Therefore, there are many factors at play here.

So what can be done?

The authors of the report have said that action should be taken as soon as possible [1]. They have argued that the prevention of poor oral health will require efforts from the Government, health professionals, society, businesses and the public [1].

Dr. Boyd has identified this moment as “an opportunity for radical change” [3]. Continuing, she mentioned that as a society, “it is time for us to demand that our children are protected from harm” [3].

Boyd has said that practical changes include government legislation, increased parental responsibility for children’s oral health and less marketing of unhealthy foods to children [1].

Furthermore, Dr. Boyd suggested that there needs to be an improvement in the affordability of healthy food, fluoride toothpaste and toothbrushes [1]. The belief is that such efforts can help to improve the situation. Therefore, these recommendations should be taken into account by many groups.

Thinking points…

1) This article primarily focuses on children. However, the findings are still relevant for adults – and show the importance of our oral health. Therefore, we should all remember to have excellent oral hygiene. As part of this, it is important to attend a dental clinic for a regular check-up. We strongly recommend that you book an appointment right away!

2) Do you have any children? If so, think about this article – is there anything you can do to improve your children’s oral health? Maybe you could supervise them cleaning their teeth and encourage a healthy diet. But most importantly, remember to take them to regular dental check-ups. Consider booking an appointment for them soon!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings and root canals.

We are also pleased to offer some cosmetic services. Here at our Calgary dental clinic, we offer treatments like tooth whitening, Invisalign™ and dental implants.

It is important for oral problems to be addressed early. Any issues can be identified at check-ups. If further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan that is suited to their needs. Early detection helps to prevent the problem getting worse.

The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.

Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.

We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Boyd, D. H., Moffat, S. M., Foster Page, L. A., & Kura Lacey, J. (2022). Oral health of children in Aotearoa New Zealand—time for change. Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand. (Pre-publication issue). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/03036758.2022.2069826.

[2] Right Casa. (2022). Spanish Government Offers Children Free Dental Care. Available: https://rightcasa.com/spanish-government-offers-children-free-dental-care/. Last accessed: 8th July 2022.

[3] University of Otago. (2022). Dental system failing children, urgent change needed according to oral specialists. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-07-dental-children-urgent-oral-specialists.html. Last accessed: 8th July 2022.

The 2022 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report has been released, with the findings suggesting Americans are caring more about their oral health, and recognizing its importance. Visits to dentists have risen, and most children have had improved access to dentistry. However, there is a lack of knowledge of the link between oral health and physical health, which has caused some concern.

Delta Dental have released the 2022 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report. The yearly report presents a nationwide view of the opinions and behaviours relating to oral health.

The findings were mainly positive. For example, most respondents were clearly aware of the importance of oral health. Moreover, more routine dentistry appointments were attended. Furthermore, there were less oral health issues for children [1].

However, there is a degree of concern over the lack of knowledge that most had in terms of of the link between physical and oral health [1]. This is an area that healthcare professionals hope will improve in the next year.

About the report

This annual report has become a very useful way of reviewing the overall state of oral health in the United States. It is commissioned by Delta Dental – the largest dental insurance provider in the US, with 83million Americans insured with them [1].

The research was conducted between the 19th and 28th of January by Material – a global insights and strategy consultancy [1]. The research involved American adults and parents of children aged 12 and younger.

Overall, they received responses to surveys from 1,027 Americans aged 19 and over. Additionally, there were 1,172 participants that were parents of children aged 12 and younger [1].

The report asked the respondents a range of questions which allowed them to self-assess their oral health and general oral hygiene [1]. The responses were then collated and analysed.

The Key Positive Findings

The conclusions drawn from the report were largely positive. The most promising finding was that 92% of adults and 96% of parents consider their oral health to be “very or extremely important” to their overall health [1].

Another pleasing aspect was the number of people attending the dentist. 89% of children attended the dentist in 2021, along with 72% of adults [1]. Both have risen when compared to 2020. 94% of adults in the survey signalled their intention to visit the dentist this year [1].

Much fewer parents reported that their children had experienced oral health issues throughout the year, when compared to recent years [1]. The researchers noted that this correlated with the finding that 92% of children visited the dentist for preventive reasons, rather than purely reactive reasons – up from 81% in 2020 [1].

The scale of the impact of Covid-19 on oral health continues to be realised. 55% of adults believe that Covid-19 has resulted in them making their oral health more of a priority [1].

Moreover, 63% of adults report paying closer attention to their oral habits due to Covid-19 [1]. Similarly, 74% of parents report paying closer attention to their children’s oral habits due to Covid-19 [1].

With more parents paying attention to the oral health of their children since Covid-19, it is unsurprising to see that many parents are worried about how oral health issues could affect their children. 70% of parents reported being concerned that poor oral health would have a poor impact on their child’s overall confidence [1].

The Key Negative Findings

However, despite the positives, there were some negatives. The researchers asked those who did not attend the dentist what the main barrier to dental care was. Unsurprisingly, the biggest issue was not being able to afford the cost of treatment [1].

Other barriers to oral healthcare also existed. For instance, other common barriers included lack of dental insurance, not wanting to visit a dental clinic during Covid-19 and having a fear of the dentist [1].

The main concern though of the researchers was how there was limited knowledge of the link between oral health and physical health [1]. This is an area that the researchers aim to address in the year ahead.

Many respondents did not realize that some medical conditions are linked to poor oral health. Only 38% of respondents knew about the link between oral health and strokes, with 37% knowing about the link with high blood pressure, and 36% being aware of the diabetes link [1].

As mentioned, this shows that there is room for improvement. But the researchers were pleased to report that 90% of adults said that they were interested in learning about oral health’s critical connection to overall health [1].

What this means

The findings are mainly positive, and compared to the last report, Americans do seem to be taking their oral health more seriously. Of course, with routine dentistry having been suspended due to Covid-19, it is natural that accessing dental services is easier now.

But the findings do show that there is room for improvement in terms of increasing awareness of the impact of oral health on physical health, and vice versa.

James W. Hutchison is the President & CEO of the Delta Dental Plans Association. He commented on the findings of the report [2]. He said that while most “understand that oral health is critically important to overall health”, many “don’t fully realize the ways oral health is linked to serious health issues” [2].

Hutchison stated that “unfortunately, this lack of understanding isn’t surprising, as people often think of the mouth and body as two distinct parts” [2]. He went on to say that his organisation aims “to partner with the public on their journey to better health”, which they aim to achieve by elevating “awareness of the essential role of oral health” [2].

It is now a case of waiting to see what progress is made over the next year in terms of overall oral health. It certainly seems that things are moving in the right direction, but that there is room for improvement.

Thinking points…

1) It is positive to see that Americans are aware of the importance of oral health. One of the most important parts of oral health is a simple check-up. A check-up allows a dentist to provide an overall summary of a patient’s oral health, and provide advice and guidance. If any problems are found, they can be acted on and treated. We recommend attending a check-up at least twice a year – why not book now!

2) If you stop and think about your oral health and hygiene – how would you answer the questions discussed in this article? Consider taking on board some of the key findings of this report – such as the link between oral and physical health. If you need some information, help or advice with your oral health, consider speaking with your dentist about this – they’ll be happy to help!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides advice, comfortable experience and treatment to improve the oral health of its patients, where needed.

Importantly, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is helpful.

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 your 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. (2022). The 2022 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report. Available: https://www.deltadental.com/content/dam/ddpa/us/en/press-releases/DDPA_State%20of%20Oral%20Health%20Report_2022-Release.pdf. Last accessed: 13th May 2022.

[2] Delta Dental Plans Association. (2022). New Delta Dental report finds many are unaware of connection between poor oral health and serious medical conditions (but 9 in 10 want to learn more). Available: https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_health/new-delta-dental-report-finds-many-are-unaware-of-connection-between-poor-oral-health-and/article_e307ea8e-e7fa-5dd2-997d-669baa5e37eb.html. Last accessed: 13th May 2022.

Researchers have looked in detail at the mechanism behind bone loss in gum disease. Gum disease is a condition that affects many people. Researchers used various techniques to find out the behaviour of certain pathogens, and whether or not they contribute to the progression of gum disease and bone loss. The research will hopefully help dentists discover new ways of best targeting gum disease in patients.

Recent research has analyzed the mechanism behind bone loss in gum disease. Many people suffer from a form of gum disease, making any research into the topic highly relevant.

The research involves double-stranded ribonucleic acid (RNA). Double-stranded RNA is a certain type of acid that plays an important role for humans. It develops naturally.

But the researchers wanted to investigate how RNA molecules affect the immune system, and its consequent response to threats. Moreover, they then wanted to see the consequent effects this had on oral health.

Background

It has been known for a while that bacterial plaque situated in the tooth pockets is what causes gum disease. Gum disease is a very common issue. In fact, around 90% of the world’s population have some form of it [1].

Gum disease is a debilitating condition which can cause pain and irritation. If left untreated, it is possible that eventual tooth removal will need to follow. This happens as a result of bone loss. Multiple types of bacteria contribute to bone loss in gum disease [2].

Bacteria types have molecules called lipopolysaccharides within them. Lipopolysaccharides support the mouth by activating the immune system when under attack.

However, it is also linked to gum inflammation, which is a key symptom of gum disease. It is believed that this is due to lipopolysaccharides recognizing bacteria as pathogens [3].

The Research

The research was conducted by the Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. Their conclusions were published in the March issue of the Journal of Biological Chemistry [4].

The point of this research was to look into the process of lipopolysaccharides recognising the bacteria, and the eventual impact it has on the progression of gum disease and bone loss [4].

To begin with, the researchers used bone marrow cells from mice and a synthetic molecule to imitate human RNA. The researchers then exposed the bone marrow cells to the RNA [4].

Their combination led to the RNA breaking down the bone within the bone marrow cells [4]. Therefore, this made it clear to the researchers that the RNA had a strong impact on bones.

The immune system response led to the bones being further affected. While a process called stromal osteoblast helped to build new bone material for some bones, many were damaged, causing the bone to erode [4].

When the gums become inflamed from bacterial disease, a similar process happens, where the bones gradually erode. While some bones may be able to rebuild, many won’t – which worsens gum disease [4].

What this means

The researchers noted in their conclusions that the results were important for the management of gum disease. They noted that when RNA is introduced via bacteria, the immune system response clearly shows how inflammation occurs [3].

Looking to the future, the researchers suggested that their findings could be helpful for dental professionals. Dentists always preach the importance of looking after the health of our gums, with this article again emphasizing their importance.

They wish to further examine RNA’s impact on the immune system going forward. They noted that this may help develop drugs in the future that could prevent bone loss from gum disease [3].

Thinking points…

1) The main focus of this article is gum disease. As mentioned above, the majority of people have some form of the condition. If left untreated, pain and possible tooth removal could eventually happen. Therefore, it is important to attend regular dental check-ups, as a dentist will be able to look at the state of your gums, and give you an update. Why not book an appointment right away!

2) This article also discusses bacteria. Many people don’t realise that bacteria enters our mouths very easily! It isn’t just a case that bacteria enters our mouths just when eating and drinking. When we bite our nails, chew on a pen lid – these are all ways of bacteria making it into our mouths. Therefore, remember to be careful about what you put into your mouth, and have strong oral hygiene!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides a warm welcome and comfortable experience to its patience whenever needed.

We recommend that our patients 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™! These treatments can have a positive impact on your appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

Importantly, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is helpful.

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] Pihlstrom, B. L., Michalowicz, B. S., & Johnson, N. W. (2005). Periodontal diseases. Lancet. 366 (9499), p1809-1820. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(05)67728-8.

[2] Tominari, T., Sanada, A., Ichimaru, R., Matsumoto, C., Hirata, M., Itoh, Y., Numabe, Y., Miyaura, C., & Inada, M. (2021). Gram-positive bacteria cell wall-derived lipoteichoic acid induces inflammatory alveolar bone loss through prostaglandin E production in osteoblasts. Scientific Reports. 11 (13353). DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-92744-5.

[3] Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. (2022). Double-stranded RNA induces bone loss during gum disease. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-04-double-stranded-rna-bone-loss-gum.html. Last accessed: 16th April 2022.

[4] Tominari, T., Akita, M., Matsumoto, C., Hirata, M., Yoshinouchi, S., Tanaka, Y., Karouji, K., Itoh, Y., Maruyama, T., Miyaura, C., Numabe, Y., & Inada, M. (2022). Endosomal TLR3 signaling in stromal osteoblasts induces prostaglandin E2–mediated inflammatory periodontal bone resorption. Journal of Biological Chemistry. 298 (3). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101603.