Category: Oral Exam

Hypophosphatasia is a rare condition that affects the development of bones and teeth. Therefore, it causes several oral health problems, making early detection crucial. A research team has looked at cases of hypophosphatasia, and sought to find out how dentists can identify suspected cases of the condition at an earlier stage.

Hypophosphatasia is a rare condition that impacts the development of bones and teeth. It is a debilitating condition and causes lifelong problems for those with the condition.

Due to the impact on teeth, those with hypophosphatasia face oral health challenges from an early age and throughout their life. Therefore, there have been ongoing efforts to aid those with the condition.

Now, new research into the condition has presented findings that could help dentists in identifying suspected cases of hypophosphatasia earlier [1]. This is an exciting finding and will hopefully improve treatment outcomes for those with this condition.

What is Hypophosphatasia?

Hypophosphatasia is a rare skeletal disease which affects bones and teeth. It involves the abnormal development of the bones and teeth [2].

Hypophosphatasia is a serious condition and can cause fetal death. Some people won’t see any symptoms for several years. The earlier that the signs are spotted, the better.

The condition is caused by genetic changes to the ALPL gene [1]. It is possible for hypophosphatasia to run in families.

Those with hypophosphatasia typically have physical health symptoms like feeding and breathing problems in infancy, short stature, weak bones and short limbs [1].

Past research has underlined the oral health problems facing those with the condition. For example, one study found that when comparing those with hypophosphatasia and members of the general public, that those with hypophosphatasia had a higher chance of having severe gum disease and a higher number of teeth missing [3].

However, there have been positive developments in recent times. Enzyme replacement therapy has offered promise, with research finding that using this type of therapy can lessen the severity of oral manifestations of hypophosphatasia [4].

Therefore, having any additional research into this subject is highly desirable. By doing so, it can help support those with hypophosphatasia towards improved oral health.

The Research

The research was carried out by a team of researchers from Osaka University in Japan. Their findings have been published in the Scientific Reports journal [1].

The research involved studying Japanese patients with a diagnosis of hypophosphatasia. The researchers have carried out similar studies once every five years since 2013 [1].

This was the largest study yet on hypophosphatasia in terms of participants – with the researchers collecting data from 103 cases of hypophosphatasia across 30 clinics [1].

By having such a huge number of cases, the research team were able to break them down into two groups. One group whose symptoms involved only teeth – called the odonto-type disease, and those who had other symptoms, termed “non-odonto type disease” [1].

Clinical dental records were studied in order to identify common oral symptoms of the condition. Moreover, the researchers were particularly interested in seeing how the cases differed between the two groups.

When comparing the groups, they were looking at many different factors. Finding trends in these factors allowed them to make conclusions.

They found that those with odonto-type hypophosphatasia were more likely to lose their first teeth early [1]. This is a clear indication of hypophosphatasia, and with this type involving teeth, the link makes sense.

Those with the non-odonto-type disease were likelier to have tooth misalignment and tooth hypomineralization, which refers to enamel on the outside of the teeth softening [1]. This can make someone more prone to tooth decay.

Moreover, the researchers found that the non-odonto-type disease were also likelier to engage in poor oral habits like finger sucking and tongue thrusting [1].

Moreover, they were likelier to have problems with swallowing [1]. Therefore, those with the non-odonto-type disease faced more oral health problems.

The role of dentists

Dentists have an important role to play. Some people are unaware that dentists are also trained to look for the symptoms of various conditions. For example, dentists can identify the signs of oral cancer, such as tumors.

Furthermore, this extends to dentists being able to spot the signs of hypophosphatasia. Sometimes it will be dentists that are the first to notice this condition.

One of the study’s authors – Kazuhiko Nakano – said that the trends observed in this study “will be helpful for dentists who might come across patients with hypophosphatasia in their clinics” [5].

Furthermore, Nakano posited that “improved knowledge of the various ways this disease presents will lead to better diagnostic rates and earlier treatments for affected patients” [5].

Summary

Overall, the study showed that both types of hypophosphatasia cause oral health problems. However, the problems for those with the non-odonto-type version of hypophosphatasia had more difficulties [1].

Rena Okawa was the lead author of the study. Okawa mentioned that the team were “surprised to see big differences in oral manifestations between the two groups” [5].

With that said, it should be noted that both types are debilitating, and irrespective of the quantity of problems, the condition puts patients at high risk of oral health problems.

Research like this is very helpful and aids towards raising awareness and improved diagnostic rates. Hopefully these continuous efforts will result in improved treatment outcomes and quality of life for those with hypophosphatasia.

Thinking points…

1) As shown above, dentists have an important role to play with overall health. By examining your mouth, they can look out for the signs and symptoms of key illnesses and conditions. Therefore, we strongly recommend attending check-ups regularly. Check-ups ensure that a dentist can take a thorough look at your oral health and check for any warning signs of various conditions. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) Do you know anyone with hypophosphatasia? If so, this article could be of interest to them. You could share this with them now! However, perhaps you’d never heard of this condition before? You could share this knowledge with friends and family, why not send them the link to this article now?

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.

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

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set 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] Okawa, R., Kadota, T., Kurosaka, H., et al. (2025). Japanese nationwide dental survey of hypophosphatasia reveals novel oral manifestations. Scientific Reports. 15 (6743). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-91043-7.

[2] Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center. (2025). Hypophosphatasia. Available: https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/6734/hypophosphatasia. Last accessed: 14th March 2025.

[3] Weider, M., Schlagenhauf, U., & Seefried, L. (2022). Oral health status of adult hypophosphatasia patients: A cross-sectional study. Journal of Clinical Periodontology. 49 (12): p1253-1261. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpe.13718.

[4] Smart, G., Jensen, E. D., Poirier, B., & Sethi, S. (2023). The impact of enzyme replacement therapy on the oral health manifestations of hypophosphatasia among children: a scoping review. European Archives of Paediatric Dentistry. 24: p429-440. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40368-023-00796-0.

[5] Osaka University. (2025). Hard evidence of soft teeth: the oral symptoms of hypophosphatasia. Available: https://www.asiaresearchnews.com/content/hard-evidence-soft-teeth-oral-symptoms-hypophosphatasia. Last accessed: 14th March 2025.

The Institute for Research on Public Policy have provided a series of recommendations to the Canadian Federal Government in regards to the National Dental Care Plan. They have some concerns with the current trajectory of the plan and have argued a universal care plan approach would be more beneficial.

The Institute for Research on Public Policy (IRPP) have voiced concerns over the current state of dental care in Canada, which involves reservations about the dental benefit [1].

These concerns have resulted in the IRPP calling for a universal dental care plan for Canadians, among other recommendations [1]. The IRPP have argued that adopting this approach would result in a bigger benefit to the oral health of Canadians.

What is the IRPP?

The IRPP is an organization that aims to combine research and public policy to improve the lives of Canadians [2]. They aim to provide insight and influence debate on some of the policy issues facing Canadians.

Their concerns over the state of dental care in Canada are based on research and insights, and takes into account all Canadians, including those with barriers to dental care.

IRPP’s comments on the dental plan

On their website, the IRPP have produced some findings in regards to their research into the state of dental care in Canada [2]. This research involved taking into account 75 studies, policies, court cases and other material, providing the organization with a wealth of information to draw their findings [1].

The IRPP have referred to Canada as a “laggard” when it comes to providing public funding for dental care [1]. By saying this, they are suggesting Canada is behind the times when it comes to dental care funding.

However, the IRPP have noted that the federal government’s proposed Canadian Dental Care Plan has the potential to change this [1]. Currently, the plan is in its early stages – taking the form of a benefit rather than a full plan.

The federal government pledged a $13billion contribution to implement the dental plan over a five-year period [1]. The plan will help families whose income is below $90,000 per year. Currently, children aged under 12 are benefiting from the plan. However, by 2025, all Canadians will have access to the dental plan [1].

The IRPP also note that the federal government has committed to spending a minimum of $250million over a three year period from 2025 in order to establish the Oral Health Access Fund [1]. Therefore, this will allow the government to invest in programs that would support the oral health of vulnerable populations.

The IRPP’s recommendations

The IRPP have pointed out that this is a “major step forward” in the federal government’s attempts to reform dental care in the country [1]. Therefore, they have acknowledged the existing efforts.

However, the IRPP have argued that there are many problems with the “payer of last resort model” that the government has opted to use [1]. Moreover, they argue that this will result in “inefficiencies” and a lack of “equitable access” to dental care.

The IRPP have suggested that there are alternative ways of achieving the reforms – including methods that don’t alienate certain members of society. Therefore, the IRPP have pointed to four factors that should help guide Canada’s dental care reform [1]:

• Universality

• Fairness

• Accessibility

• Accountability

The IRPP have argued that once these four factors are taken into account, that there are various options to take [1]. The IRPP have pointed out that the government opted to choose a cash payment at first. However, the IRPP have called for a move towards providing universal dental care coverage for essential dental services [1].

They have argued that a national agency – which would be funded by the federal government – should be launched which would provide universal dental coverage [1]. Furthermore, the IRPP have suggested that such a move would be in keeping with Canada’s constitutional division of powers and would be an effective way of broadening access to dental care for all across Canada.

The IRPP have suggested the national agency would be able to collect data to ensure accessibility is being achieved, along with quality of care [1].

What next?

It is clear that oral healthcare in Canada causes substantial debate across the nation. The IRPP have offered their opinions, backed by the large amount of research undertaken.

The federal government continue to work out ways of implementing the dental care plan and will surely note these recommendations when deciding the next stage of the rollout. But we do know that discussion over the dental plan is far from over.

Thinking points…

1) One of the leading causes of a dental plan being needed is that many people find the cost of oral healthcare too high. However, here at our Calgary-based dental clinic [clinic name], our fees are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. Therefore, this makes our prices fully transparent, reliable, and competitive. If you wanted to find out more about us, why not visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca? We would love to see you at our Calgary dental clinic soon!

2) Whether you have dental coverage or not, remember it is very important to have at least two check-ups per year. Dental check-ups give a dentist a chance to have a thorough look at your oral health. Therefore, they can provide advice, information and treatment options if needed. We strongly recommend that you book your next appointment soon!

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] Flood, C. M., Allin, S., Lazin, S. J., Marchildon, G., Oliver, P., & Quinonez, C. (2023). Toward a Universal Dental Care Plan: Policy Options for Canada. Available: https://irpp.org/research-studies/toward-a-universal-dental-care-plan-policy-options-for-canada/. Last accessed: 30th June 2023.

[2] Institute for Research on Public Policy. (2023). About the IRPP. Available: https://irpp.org/about-the-irpp/. Last accessed: 30th June 2023.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is having a substantial effect on multiple areas all over the world. Unfortunately, the healthcare system is not immune from its impact. Now, there are concerns that shortages caused by the conflict could impact dentistry – with more complex interventions like root canal treatments being affected.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine is causing many issues around the world. While some of these effects – such as the emerging humanitarian crisis engulfing the country – are visible, other effects are not.

Among the areas that have been negatively impacted is the worldwide healthcare system. Unfortunately, the dental industry is also being affected by the consequences of the conflict.

Ukraine and Russia – the two countries involved in the conflict – are huge exporters of key commodities, including some items and materials that are used in healthcare.

Therefore, dental treatments are among the areas to be affected. More complex procedures like root canal treatments are likely to be the worst affected.

Commodity Issues

Towards the end of February 2022, Russia launched an invasion of Ukraine. The conflict has been going on for several months, with the Russian offensive met by strong resistance from the Ukrainian military.

As a result, the world has been impacted enormously. There have been concerns over a potential nuclear war, record high gas prices and a range of shortages. Therefore, many industries have been impacted – including the dental industry.

Russia and Ukraine are key exporters of some commodities. For example, in this case, the key resources are Ammonium Nitrate and Natural Gas [1]. But international sanctions, transport issues and procurement struggles has led to shortages. As a result, accessing these commodities has become more difficult.

When the above commodities are refined, they can produce two gases which are vital for the healthcare system. These are Nitrous Oxide (known as Laughing Gas) and Helium [1]. Both of these are used in millions of healthcare procedures each day.

Other Healthcare shortages

The Covid-19 pandemic had disastrous effect on worldwide supply chains, causing huge shortages [2]. These shortages have now been exacerbated by the conflict in Ukraine.

Since the invasion began, even more shortages have been reported. For example, baby formula, medication, and contrast dye used in diagnostic scans are among the current shortages. As a result of the contrast dye shortage, potentially life-saving scans are having to be rationed in some states – a dire situation [1].

The impact on dentistry

Nitrous Oxide is primarily used in dentistry for complex procedures or surgeries. Unfortunately, around 40% of Ammonium Nitrate – which is needed for Nitrous Oxide – comes from Russia [1].

Root canal treatments are used to treat an infection in the tooth. It involves a dentist removing infected soft tissue inside the tooth – known as the pulp [3]. Because of the invasive nature of a root canal treatment, as well its long procedure time, it can cause anxiety and concern from patients [1].

When patients are anxious, nervous or distressed, they can be offered a sedative – such as Nitrous Oxide. However, because of the shortages, less sedatives are expected to be available. This may result in less people wanting to undergo root canal treatment.

This shortage is therefore causing concern in healthcare. It is important to remember that dental clinics typically do have other sedatives available, but supplies are normally limited.

Regardless of potential shortages, dental clinics will aim to continue providing root canal and other complex treatments. This shouldn’t stop the overall goal of providing effective and efficient treatments for patients around the world.

Thinking points…

1) This article talks about root canal treatments. They aren’t pleasant procedures, but fortunately – they can normally be avoided through strong oral hygiene. As part of having a strong oral hygiene routine, you should ensure you see your dentist regularly for a check-up. If there are any problems that need addressing, your dentist will be able to spot them and suggest treatment if necessary. Therefore, this will prevent problems worsening – we recommend booking an appointment soon!

2) Maybe some of you reading this will be awaiting, or are in need of, root canal treatment. It can be tempting to avoid the dentist when you are scared ahead of a procedure. However, it is important that you go ahead and get the root canal treatment done. Unfortunately, dental problems won’t go away, and the longer you leave it for, the more damage will be done. Try to attend the appointment and if needed, discuss taking a sedative with your dentist.

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 dental problems will be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem getting worse. If and when further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan that is suited to their needs.

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 also 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] Tahir, D. (2022). Why the war in Ukraine might make root canals more difficult. Available:https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-06-war-ukraine-root-canals-difficult.html. Last accessed: 11th June 2022.

[2] NHS. (2022). Root canal treatment. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/root-canal-treatment/. Last accessed: 10th June 2022.

[3] Cohen, J., & van der Meulen Rodgers, Y. (2020). Contributing factors to personal protective equipment shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic. Preventive Medicine. 141 (106263). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ypmed.2020.106263.