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IRPP Comment on Worries Over Dental Plan: What Are Their Recommendations?
4Jul
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.

Is There a Shortage of Dental Assistants in Canada? What Impact Will It Have?
24Apr
The President of the Canadian Dental Association has voiced the organization’s concern over a shortage of dental assistants in Canada. They have highlighted that this shortage could have a very negative impact on oral healthcare in Canada. Therefore, action may need to be taken soon to increase the number of dental assistants in Canada.

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) have cautioned that the ongoing shortage of dental assistants in Canada will cause a range of problems for oral healthcare in the country [1].

Concerns have been raised regarding a backlog in oral health appointments, too much demand from patients and no space for new patients at some clinics.

These problems would have a devastating impact on Canadian oral healthcare and will hopefully be tackled and mitigated soon to ensure there is minimal disruption to oral healthcare in Canada.

The role of a dental assistant

Dental assistants are a crucial part of oral healthcare. In many ways they are the “unsung heroes” that quietly perform crucial tasks in the background without many people even noticing!

Dental assistants help dentists and hygienists perform their jobs. For example, they will often help during procedures by handing dentists equipment, taking X-rays, sterilizing instruments and looking after the patients.

As time has moved on the role of the dental assistant is more important than ever before. Some dental assistants can even perform activities like removing temporary fillings or crowns and administering anaesthesia.

The shortage

As summarized above, the importance of dental assistants is clear. Therefore, it is concerning that there is a shortage of these skilled workers in Canada.

Lynn Tomkins, President of the CDA, has warned that without adequate staffing, that many dental clinics will not be able to meet the patient demand.

Tomkins has said that the shortage “is the number one issue for dentists across the country” [1]. As a result, she says that dentists have had to alter or reduce their hours due to the lack of staff.

When asked about how much of a shortage there is, Tomkins said that currently there is a “shortage of almost 5,000 dental assistants” in Canada [1].

Statistics show that there are over 25,000 dental assistants in Canada [2]. However, many retire each year and qualifying as a dental assistant takes time.

Moreover, Tomkins has also pointed out that the upcoming expansion of the Canadian National Dental Plan will result in increased demand from the public for dental care, as more people than ever before will have access to oral healthcare.

Why is there a shortage of dental assistants in Canada?

Many people have attributed such shortages to the impact of the global pandemic Covid-19. However, Tomkins says that there was already a shortage prior to the pandemic.

She points out that in 2019, the CDA found that a third of dental clinics in Canada were advertising jobs for dental assistants [1]. Tomkins said that “Covid-19 exacerbated this problem” [1].

The pandemic appeared to cause many to leave the profession, with the Canadian healthcare system becoming very stretched. Furthermore, a 2022 survey found that during the pandemic 57% of surveyed dental assistants said their environment had become increasingly stressful [1].

Another cause is the perceived lack of pay. Kelly Mansfield is a board member of the CDAA and a former dental assistant that commented on this [1]. She pointed out that “it’s very hard to raise a family on a dental assistant salary” and that in her case she needed to leave the industry due to the poor salary [1].

Given the hard work and risk involved, many don’t feel that they are adequately compensated. Regardless of industry, when employees don’t feel like they are paid enough they are likely to leave – with dental assistants being no different.

The impact

Without dental assistants, a dental clinic wouldn’t operate in the same way. They are crucial and a big shortage would have a significant impact on oral healthcare in Canada.

There are many potential problems. For example, these include a large backlog in oral health appointments, more demand from patients than supply, and no space for new patients at some clinics.

Then there is also the concern that some dental clinics may need to turn to untrained individuals – which would cause the standard of dentistry to lessen. Therefore, poorer treatment outcomes are likely.

Tomkins has urged the government and policy makers to do more for dental assistants. This includes aiding their mental health through support services. Moreover, Tomkins also recommends that more training courses are made available to those who wish to become a dental assistant.

It is therefore very important for us all to make the most of the current oral healthcare situation, as there may be some problems upcoming. Hopefully there will soon be a surge in dental assistants to combat these issues. Irrespective of concerns like the above, having strong oral health is always vital!

Thinking points…

[1] As this article shows, Canada is in need of dental assistants. Do you think you could become one? The Canadian Dental Assistants Association (CDAA) have a useful webpage that provides a guide on how you could become one. The average age of a Canadian dental assistant is 38 – so it is never too late to change career! You can read more about this at the following link – https://www.cdaa.ca/da-promotion/?lang=en.

[2] The potential problems outlined in this article would result in longer waiting times for appointments at dental clinics. Therefore, it is highly advisable to book an appointment as soon as possible. This will ensure that you won’t be part of any potential backlog and will have information on any treatment that you might need. We recommend booking an appointment right away!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

It is very important to have excellent oral hygiene. This involves brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and eating healthily. Therefore, this should help your oral health.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

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

Moreover, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing.

We hope to see you soon at our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Dangerfield, K. (2023). Canada has a dental assistant shortage. Experts worry it’ll only get worse. Available: https://globalnews.ca/news/9631941/dentist-assistant-shortage-canada/. Last accessed: 22nd April 2023.

[2] Canadian Dental Assistants Association. (2023). Dental Assisting in Canada. Available: https://www.cdaa.ca/da-promotion. Last accessed: 22nd April 2023.

Why Is the Conflict in Ukraine Affecting Root Canal Dental Treatments?
13Jun
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.

What Are the Warning Signs of Mouth Cancer That We Shouldn’t Ignore? - Savanna Dental
1Feb
Mouth cancer continues to be a big problem, with many people being affected by the condition each year. One of the biggest issues with treatment is when there is late detection of symptoms. Therefore, it is important to pay close attention to our oral health. This includes looking out for possible signs and symptoms, and regularly visiting a dentist to get professional advice.

Mouth cancer is a type of cancer which affects millions of people around the world each year. While recovery rates are strong, it can be life-threatening in many cases.

Many people focus on their physical health. It is common for oral health to be neglected. However, our oral health and physical health are intrinsically linked. Therefore, oral health needs to be valued highly.

It is important to pay close attention to our oral health. Crucially, there are some warning signs and symptoms that we can look out for, especially in terms of mouth cancer.

A dentist will be able to look out for any signs of mouth cancer, and offer practical advice where needed. This confirms again the importance of visiting a dentist for a regular check-up.

Background

Mouth cancer is also known as oral cancer. Surprisingly, it is a form of cancer that many are unaware of. Mouth cancer is actually the sixth most common form of cancer around the world [1].

One study found that 2.1% of cases of cancer were mouth cancer [2]. Moreover, the same study found that 145,000 patients around the world die each year of factors relating to mouth cancer [2].

The rates of mouth cancer have largely remained steady in recent years. However, lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol and obesity have all been linked with a rise in some parts of the world, including India [3].

Warning signs

There are warning signs that we can all look out for. For example, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) outline six potential warning signs and symptoms of mouth cancer [4]:

  • Painful mouth ulcers which last for several weeks
  • Unexplained lumps in the mouth or neck that do not go away
  • Loose teeth or sockets which do not heal, typically after a tooth extraction
  • Feeling of persistent numbness in the tongue of the mouth or lip
  • White or red patches in the lining of the mouth or tongue
  • Changes in speech, such as a lisp

It is important to mention that any of the above warning signs can be an issue, and should not be ignored. Equally, the above is not an exhaustive list of symptoms.

The problem of late detection

Mouth cancer is normally not deadly. The NHS suggests that when mouth cancer is diagnosed early, 9 in 10 people will be cured through surgery alone [4].

But this does show the importance of early detection. If the early warning signs of mouth cancer are missed, then the chances of recovery become poorer. If left untreated, symptoms will worsen, and will become more difficult to recover from.

In fact, the Mouth Cancer Foundation have said that most deaths from mouth cancer are due to late detection [5]. This is “due to a low public awareness of the signs, symptoms and risks” [5].

Preventing mouth cancer

Because of the importance of early detection, it is crucial to see your dentist regularly. By visiting the dentist, any potential signs of mouth cancer can be picked up on. If there are problems, then treatment can begin quickly.

The useful thing about seeing the dentist is that they can provide a comprehensive check on a person’s oral health. Not only will they look out for cavities, plaque and gum health, but they will also look for signs of mouth cancer and similar ailments.

At the very least, if you come across some of the above symptoms, you should not delay in seeing a dental professional. Some people can be reluctant to see a dentist because of the costs involved, but this can be a life-or-death situation.

Aside from attending regular dental check-ups, there are other ways of aiding the prevention of oral cancer. This includes not smoking, lowering alcohol consumption, and eating a healthy diet which includes plenty of fruit and vegetables [4].

Mouth cancer can affect anyone, at any time. Staying alert is important, and having excellent dental hygiene can help towards strong oral health. Looking out for the warning signs discussed above is very important. Overall, it is important to value our oral health, and do what we can to prevent mouth-related conditions from arising.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Were you aware of any of the warning signs? Are you, or anyone in your family, affected by these symptoms? If so, it is crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible! A lot of the time, it won’t be anything to worry about, but it is important to seek professional advice and treatment.
  • 2) This article shows the importance of attending the dentist on a regular basis. Are you due a check-up? If so, we recommend booking an appointment soon! By seeing a dentist, they will be able to check the overall state of your oral health, and offer recommendations where necessary.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides its patients with a warm welcome, a comfortable experience and advice 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. We also have some cosmetic treatments too!

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.

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://savannadental.ca.

References

Could Artificial Intelligence Help Us to Predict the Effectiveness of Dental Implants? - Savanna Dental
8Nov
Artificial intelligence is making a big impact on the world, and the world of dentistry is benefiting too. New research has found that it could be possible to accurately predict among people with dental implants who can recover from peri-implantitis, which is a common issue for those with dental implants.

Dental implants are a popular dentistry treatment that involves using a natural-feeling and looking tooth to replace a lost or damaged tooth.

For those who have lost or missing teeth, implants can be a fantastic solution. But despite being intended to last long-term, many implants do not.

One of the main causes of this is peri-implantitis. This is an inflammatory process that results in eventual loss of dental implants. However, it is not always clear who can recover from peri-implantitis.

But now, recent research has yielded an algorithm named FARDEEP. FARDEEP seems to be able to help predict treatment outcomes for peri-implantitis. FARDEEP is an example of artificial intelligence, and could help to make dental implants far more successful.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are typically used to replace a lost or missing tooth. They are usually needed because of advanced gum disease or extreme tooth decay.

Implants are meant to last for a long time. However, studies have found mixed results. For example, there is a 90-95% success rate over 10 years for dental implants [1].

Implants are practical, offer aesthetic and functional tooth replacements. But, peri-implantitis is a common cause of dental implants not working properly.

A recent study found that a process called “biofouling” could help to prolong the life of implants [2](click here to know more). Now, it appears that artificial intelligence will also help dental implants to be more effective.

What is peri-implantitis?

Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory process that causes the tissue and bone around dental implants to become infected. Peri-implantitis can be very damaging to overall oral health. For instance, progressive bone loss, bleeding, pus and eventual loss of the implant are potential consequences [3].

Consequently, it becomes difficult to then put a new implant in place due to the poor bone quality around the area.

The causes of peri-implantitis aren’t always clear. Patients who smoke or have a history of periodontal disease are at higher risk of developing the condition [4].

Treating peri-implantitis is difficult and unpredictable. Reconstructive therapy is currently the treatment used. However, it is not always successful. Moreover, it is both expensive and time-consuming.

Because of the impact of peri-implantitis, and its poor treatment outcomes, researchers have been searching for ways of better predicting the effectiveness of treatment for each individual patient.

What is FARDEEP?

A team of researchers led by the University of Michigan School of Dentistry have been able to develop a machine-learning algorithm. They believe this can help to predict who will be able to recover from peri-implantitis, and who can’t [5].

FARDEEP is an example of the use of artificial intelligence in dentistry. FARDEEP stands for Fast and Robust Deconvolution of Expression Profiles.

In order to develop the algorithm, the researchers analyzed tissue samples from a group of patients that were receiving reconstructive therapy for peri-implantitis [5]. Furthermore, they then looked at how much harmful bacteria and infection-fighting immune cells were available in each sample [5].

Using this information, the researchers were then able to develop the algorithm. Overall, the researchers found that patients that had a high amount of immune cells were at lower risk of periodontal disease [5]. As a result, this means that they are likelier to have success with treatment.

In the long-term, the researchers are hoping that they will be able to use this algorithm across dentistry to help those with peri-implantitis. As a result, it should mean that dental implants can become longer-lasting, and more effective.

What this means for dental implants

The algorithm has a potential to have a big impact on dentistry. Jeff Wang, a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan, spoke about his hopes. He declared that the algorithm could help to “determine the best course of treatment” for peri-implantitis [3].

He said that this would typically involve either going through reconstructive therapy, or replacing an old implant with a new one [3]. Wang said that in the future, it could be possible to predict the risk posed by peri-implantitis before a dental implant is placed [3].

Wang cautioned that human clinical trials will be needed before FARDEEP could be used by clinicians [3]. This will be a long process, but it could have a very positive impact if implemented in the future.

FARDEEP is the latest example of the use of artificial intelligence in dentistry. Data is being used in exciting ways. As seen in this study, scientists are predicting that an artificial intelligence-based care system will result in more informed and accurate/effective decision-making and a higher quality of care [6].

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a warm welcome, a comfortable experience and advice 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.

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 dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

  • [1] Raikar, S., Talukdar, P., Kumari, S., Kumar Panda, S., Oommen, V. M., & Prasad, A. (2017). Factors Affecting the Survival Rate of Dental Implants: A Retrospective Study. Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry. 7 (6), p351-355.
  • [2] Lehnfeld, J., Dukashin, Y., Mark, J., White, G. D., Wu, S., Katzur, V., Muller, R., & Ruhl, S. (2021). Saliva and Serum Protein Adsorption on Chemically Modified Silica Surfaces. Journal of Dental Research. 100 (10): p1047-1054.
  • [3] Bailey, L. (2021). AI helps predict treatment outcomes for patients with diseased dental implants. Available: https://news.umich.edu/ai-helps-predict-treatment-outcomes-for-patients-with-diseased-dental-implants/. Last accessed: 5th November 2021.
  • [4] Roos-Jansaker, A. M. (2007). Long time follow up of implant therapy and treatment of peri-implantitis. Swedish Dental Journal. 188 (1): p7-66.
  • [5] Wang, C. W., Hao, Y., Di Gianfilippo, R., Sugai, J., Li, J., Gong, W., Kornman, K. S., Wang, H. L., Kamada, N., Xie, Y., Giannobile, W. V., & Lei, Y. L. (2021). Machine learning-assisted immune profiling stratifies peri-implantitis patients with unique microbial colonization and clinical outcomes. Theranostics. 11 (14): p6703-6716. Available: https://www.thno.org/v11p6703.htm.
  • [6] Chen, Y-W., Stanley, K., Att, W., & Dent, M. (2020). Quintessence International. 51 (3): p248-257.
Study Shows Dental Implant Surfaces Are Vital to Protect Implants From Bacteria - Savanna Dental
4Oct
A recent study has looked into how certain oral proteins affect the overall life expectancy of dental implants. Dental implants are a popular oral treatment, but they don’t provide permanent results. The researchers therefore attempted to find ways of prolonging the life of implants through analysing a process named “biofouling”.

Dental implants are a very common treatment in dentistry. Implants can be an effective solution for missing or heavily-decayed teeth.

However, dental implants aren’t permanent measures. In addition, dental implants usually need to be replaced after a few years. Because of this, scientists have sought to find ways to prolong the life of implants.

A recent study has analysed the process of “biofouling” and the effect it has on dental implants. The research involved studying oral proteins and the effect that different chemical modifications have on the implant surface.

Background

Dental implants are typically used to replace a lost or missing tooth, they are normally needed because of advanced gum disease or extensive tooth decay.

Implants are designed to be long-lasting. Studies have found that there is a 90-95% success rate over 10 years for dental implants [1]. Many implants do not last longer than 10 years.

Because of this, researchers have been searching for ways of improving the longevity of dental implants. Therefore, scientists sought to study how dental implants are affected by mouth processes. For instance, this included biofouling.

The Process of Implant Insertion

When dental implants are inserted, they are immediately coated by saliva and blood plasma. The implants absorb a thin layer of oral proteins from the plasma, leading to gum tissue attaching.

However, this process allows bacteria to grow on the surface of the implant. Consequently, this can lead to the gum tissue becoming irritated. As a result, inflammation and eventual removal will often follow.

The Research

Research published in the Journal of Dental Research aimed to increase scientists’ understanding of a complex biological process named “biofouling” [2]. The University at Buffalo and the University of Regensburg carried out the research.

Biofouling refers to how the surface of implants effect the adsorption of oral proteins and unwanted microorganisms. Biofouling is a process that causes negative effects on oral health [3]. The level of adsorption is dependent on environmental conditions, protein properties and the material surface [4].

Attacking bacteria encounters protein layers first. Therefore, how implant surfaces are affected by oral proteins is an important subject.

The research involved using specially-designed silica beads. In addition, these beads had a range of different chemically modified surfaces [2]. By comparing different surfaces, researchers were therefore able to see how each one reacted.

The results showed that the adsorption of proteins from blood plasma is influenced by the amount of protein adsorbed. However, the adsorption of proteins from saliva is impacted by the biomaterial’s surface [2].

Stefan Ruhl, who is a Professor of Oral Biology at the University at Buffalo’s School of Dental Medicine, spoke about the study [5].

Ruhl said that oral proteins “help determine the biological or pathological consequences that result in either long-term survival of the implant or its failure along with irreversible damage to the surrounding tissues from infection” [5]. Ruhl’s comments emphasize the importance of this subject area.

What does this study show us?

The findings from this study should result in an improvement in the success of dental implants. As a result, the researchers will hope their findings can be put into practice.

The researchers have planned a follow-up study. This is because they hope to involve more chemically-modified silica surfaces. This is part of an ongoing aim to improve the design of implant surface coatings.

However, it is important to mention that there are other factors that affect dental implants. Moreover, oral hygiene, diet, bone structure and lifestyle factors all have an impact on the length of time implants last [6].

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We offer many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals and some cosmetic services.

Dental problems should be addressed early and can be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem getting more severe. So, when further treatment is needed after a check-up, we give our patients a clear treatment plan.

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 practice 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.

  • [1] Raikar, S., Talukdar, P., Kumari, S., Kumar Panda, S., Oommen, V. M., & Prasad, A. (2017). Factors Affecting the Survival Rate of Dental Implants: A Retrospective Study. Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry. 7(6), p351-355.
  • [2] Lehnfeld, J., Dukashin, Y., Mark, J., White, G. D., Wu, S., Katzur, V., Muller, R., & Ruhl, S. (2021). Saliva and Serum Protein Adsorption on Chemically Modified Silica Surfaces. Journal of Dental Research. 100(10): p1047-1054.
  • [3] Norde, W. (2008). My voyage of discovery to proteins in flatland… and beyond. Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces. 61(1): p1–9.
  • [4] Michiardi, A., Aparicio, C., Ratner, B. D., Planell, J. A., Gil, J. (2007). The influence of surface energy on competitive protein adsorption on oxidized niti surfaces. Biomaterials. 28(4): p586–594.
  • [5] University at Buffalo. (2021). Study: Dental implant surfaces play major role in tissue attachment, warding off unwanted bacteria. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2021-09-dental-implant-surfaces-major-role.html. Last accessed: 2nd October 2021.
  • [6] Gherde, C., Dhatrak, P., Nimbalkar, S., & Joshi, S. (2021). A comprehensive review of factors affecting fatigue life of dental implants. Materials Today: Proceedings. 43(2): p1117-1123.