Category: Oral Health

Red wine is a very common drink that is enjoyed by many people around the world. However, it is also known for having the undesirable effect of staining teeth. This is something we all try to avoid. Now, a dentist has discussed the link between red wine and stained teeth – and listed some methods to help prevent problems. This useful information can help many people to manage their teeth effectively.

Over the Christmas season, it is very common for us to over-indulge on food and drink. While doing this just once a year may not do much harm, it is important to exert caution during the festive season.

One of the most common things that people treat themselves to over the holiday season is red wine. But this has the undesirable, yet common effect, of staining teeth over time.

But what can be done about this? Now, a dentist has looked into this question, and has helped to explain some of the key factors that result in stained teeth [1]. This information will be very relevant to anyone who is concerned about the possibility of their teeth becoming stained.

Analysis by a professional

Uchenna Akosa is a dentist who works in tandem with Rutgers Health University Dental Associates [1]. As a dentist, Akosa has seen stained teeth first-hand, and has developed knowledge on it.

Akosa explained the link between red wine and stained teeth. She says that upon drinking red wine, “you’re encountering a triple threat to your teeth’s whiteness” [1]. This triple threat that Akosa speaks of consists of anthocynanins, tannins and acidity [1].

Akosa explains that anthocyanins are the pigments in grapes that give red wine its rich color. Meanwhile, tannins help bind the pigment our teeth. Finally, acidity refers to the acid found in wine, which etches our enamel, making it more porous and easier for the stain to stick [1].

When combined, these various threats can result in our teeth becoming discolored. While occasional consumption of wine may not cause this, consistent consumption is highly likely to cause it.

Moreover, Akosa mentions that “the strength of your enamel and how prone you are to plaque build-up is key to how much your teeth might stain” [1]. Some people are naturally more prone to plaque. This quote shows that some people will naturally be more at risk than others.

Looking at the wider picture, Akosa has acknowledged that many other foods and drinks have a similar effect [1]. She says that “anything that can stain a shirt can stain your teeth” [1]. For example, she mentions “black coffee, black tea, berries, balsamic vinegar, chocolate, sweets and smoking” as examples [1].

Moreover, she continues by saying “drinks like soda and juices harm the enamel and make teeth more susceptible to stains” [1]. Clearly, there are a range of threats to our teeth.

Interestingly, in a comparison based on the impact that red wine and coffee have on staining teeth, a team of researchers in 2010 found that red wine had the more severe effect on tooth discoloration and enamel erosion [2].

Preventing stained teeth

There are things that we can all do to try and prevent stained teeth. These suggestions are from Akosa, who believes taking the following steps can limit the damage done to our teeth when drinking wine [1]:

• Akosa suggests that we should brush our teeth before, but not immediately after, drinking [1]. This is because brushing your teeth before drinking will tackle any build-up of plaque prior to consumption of wine. If you do it afterwards, the wine may contribute to a build-up of plaque in the meantime.

• Akosa also states that we shouldn’t drink white wine prior to red wine [1]. While it can be tempting to drink both, the extra acid in white wine will exacerbate the staining.

• Another useful tip Akosa provides is to drink water while drinking wine [1]. Regularly swishing your mouth with water whilst drinking wine can help to reduce the wine’s acidity and keep our mouth’s saliva levels strong. This can help to regulate our mouth’s acid levels.

• Akosa has also pointed out the usefulness of pairing cheese with wine while drinking. This is because cheese can help to stimulate saliva and reduces acidity from wine.

• Finally, Akosa has pointed out how important it is to brush your teeth correctly and attend regular dental appointments [1]. This can help to remove plaque and keep teeth healthy.

Akosa has suggested that a good brushing technique involves placing the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and lightly brush back and forth in short strokes [1]. Furthermore, it is important to brush the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of teeth.

Overall, it is important to remember to enjoy yourself over the festive season – after all, it only comes around once a year. However, you can do so responsibly, and act in a way that protects and limits any damage to teeth.

There certainly seems to be a strong relationship between red wine and teeth discoloration, but as outlined above, there are steps that can be taken to help prevent problems.

Thinking points…

1) As mentioned above, it is very important to look after our teeth. There are many simple steps we can take to protect and strengthen our oral health. One of the most important aspects of this is to attend regular dental appointments. At these appointments, any problems can be detected, and necessary treatments planned and proposed. We strongly recommend booking an appointment right away!

2) Once teeth are stained, it can be rather unsettling for many people, and affect their self-esteem. However, cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening, is available! Here at Savanna Dental, we offer both in-office whitening and take-home whitening kits. We also offer consultations for those considering teeth whitening, giving you a chance to ask any questions you may have. We would love to have a discussion with you about teeth whitening, and help you on your journey to great-looking teeth!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of treatment options and advice aimed at improving 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] Zielinski, P. (2022). How to prevent ‘wine teeth’ this holiday. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-12-wine-teeth-holiday.html/. Last accessed: 30th December 2022.

[2] Liporini, P. C. S., Souto, C. M. C., Pazinatto, R. B., Cesar, I. C. R., Augusto de Rego, M., Mathias, P., & Cavalli, V. (2010). Enamel Susceptibility to Coffee and Red Wine Staining at Different Intervals Elapsed from Bleaching: A Photoreflectance Spectrophotometry Analysis. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 28 (2): p105-109. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1089/pho.2009.2627.

The Canadian Revenue Agency has announced that applications have opened for the new national dental benefit. Low-income families will be able to claim up to $650 per year towards dental care for each qualifying child. This will be very helpful for a huge range of people across Canada, and should improve the nation’s oral health.

The Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) has announced that after a long wait, parents are now able to apply for the new children’s dental benefit [1].

This is the result of a program put forward by the Liberal Party, backed by the New Democratic Party (NDP). Moreover, this benefit forms part of the Canadian government’s assistance with the recent rise in the cost of living.

The dental benefit will be very useful for low-income families across Canada. This is the first part of a wider national dental care plan that is due to be implemented in full by 2025.

What is the dental benefit?

This dental benefit is the result of the initial approach of the Canadian government towards a nationwide dental care plan. As the dental care plan isn’t quite ready, the benefit comes as a compromise for a short-term plan [2].

The overall plan forms part of the supply and confidence agreement between the NDP and the Liberals. Improved dental care has been one of the most important policies of the NDP since it was founded.

The benefit will provide assistance to families with a household income of below $90,000. At first, the benefit will be for those aged under 12. Furthermore, families can receive up to $650 per year towards dental care for any qualifying child [2].

The Canadian Revenue Agency require anyone who wishes to claim the benefit to provide them with the name and address of their licensed dental practitioner, as well as the date of their appointment [3].

The latest updates

Applications opened, and within a day, thousands of applications had been put in [1]. This is very positive news, and suggests that the benefit will be very popular.

Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos said that the start was a sign that the “benefit is going to help lots of families” [1]. Duclos has been among those championing this benefit.

Moreover, Duclos spoke about the current dental care situation in Canada, saying that for many Canadians, dental costs are “simply out of reach” [1]. Duclos hopes that the government will have a “long-term program in place” for dental care soon [1].

The NDP’s leader Jagmeet Singh – a long-time advocate for improved access to dental care – was pleased with the outcome [1]. He said that the NDP will “keep fighting to make sure all Canadians can access comprehensive dental care as part of our health-care system” [1].

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has faced criticism for creating the benefit at a time where the healthcare system is already overstretched. However, he reasoned that the benefit was needed as the current situation means that “parents either don’t send their kids to the dentist or have to make impossible choices about what not to buy for their kids if they’re going to send them to the dentist” [1].

Continuing, Trudeau then pointed out that such a situation shouldn’t be the case in Canada, saying “particularly because we know that oral health is an intrinsic part of overall health” [1].

The aim continues to be for a long-term program to be in place soon. Eventually, the benefit dental care plan will fall under a public insurance program, rather than an individual benefit – making it easier to access [1].

How to apply

The Canadian government have produced a useful “how to apply” page on their website, which you can access at the following page: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/dental-benefit/how-apply.html [4].

The current claim period is October 1st 2022 to June 30th 2023. You should apply using the CRA, which can be done at the above page [4].

The CRA require parents to keep receipts for six years [4]. Payments are usually processed within 5 business days.

It has taken a long time, but the dental benefit has now launched. Further elements of the overall plan will be released in the coming months.

Thinking points…

1) The creation of this dental benefit acknowledges that dental costs can be high. However, here at Savanna Dental, our prices are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. Therefore, our fees are transparent and reliable. We would love to see you visit our Calgary dental clinic! To find out more, or to have a conversation regarding your oral health, get in touch with us!

2) Do you have a child that could be aided by this dental benefit? If so, details on how to apply are outlined above. But this doesn’t mean you should rest on your laurels, as we need to all have excellent oral hygiene in order to keep our dental health strong. As part of this, it is important to attend regular check-ups, as this provides the opportunity for a dental professional to analyze your oral health. We recommend booking a check-up right away!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of treatment options and advice aimed at improving 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] The Canadian Press. (2022). Applications open for dental care benefits touted by Liberals as inflation relief. Available: https://www.cp24.com/news/applications-open-for-dental-care-benefits-touted-by-liberals-as-inflation-relief-1.6176362. Last accessed: 9th December 2022.

[2] Ontario Dental Association. (2022). Canadian Dental Care Plan. Available: https://www.oda.ca/visiting-the-dentist/government-dental-programs/canadian-dental-care-plan/. Last accessed: 9th December 2022.

[3] Government of Canada. (2022). Canada Dental Benefit. Validating your application. Available: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/dental-benefit/how-apply/validation.html. Last accessed: 9th December 2022.

[4] Government of Canada. (2022). Canada Dental Benefit. How to apply. Available: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/child-family-benefits/dental-benefit/how-apply.html. Last accessed: 9th December 2022.

The World Health Organization has published a landmark report that looks at the scale of oral diseases affecting the world. In concerning findings, almost half of the world’s population suffers from some sort of mouth disease. The findings show that oral diseases are widespread, and that action is needed to tackle them.

The World Health Organization have announced that almost half of the world’s population suffers from some sort of mouth disease, in worrying news.

Mouth diseases can include anything from oral cancer to tooth decay. All conditions have a debilitating effect on those who suffer from them.

This announcement came in a report released by the WHO [1]. It shows that there are many mouth-related problems facing the world – including oral health-based conditions.

WHO Report

The World Health Organization have released the “Global Oral Health Status Report” [1]. This is a report that reviews data on major oral diseases, risk factors, health system challenges and opportunities for reform [1].

In the context of this report, mouth diseases include gum disease, tooth decay, oral cancers and tooth loss among other conditions.

The report took into account all 194 of the world’s countries. The WHO found that 45% of the world’s population – approximately 3.5billion people – have some form of oral illness [1].

The vast majority of these people have some form of dental health issue like tooth decay or gum disease. For example, the WHO said that over 1billion people alone are affected by severe gum disease [1].

But the biggest issue is untreated dental caries, which affects almost 2.5billion people around the world [1]. Therefore, huge swathes of people need urgent dental work done.

Mouth cancer is another common disease. Moreover, the WHO stated that approximately 380,000 new cases of oral cancers are diagnosed every year [1].

Rather shockingly, the report found that global cases of mouth diseases had increased by over 1billion over the last 3 decades [1].

One of the main problems with oral diseases is that often people don’t realize that they have a problem [1]. Then, by the time they do realize they have a problem, treatment is typically more invasive and costly.

These statistics are very worrying, and suggests that oral health is something that needs more attention and treatment. Otherwise, these statistics will only worsen.

Inequities in treatment

The WHO pointed out that three-quarters of those suffering from oral diseases live in low and middle-income countries [1]. This points to severe inequities in treatment.

Furthermore, vulnerable people like the disabled or the elderly were also much more likely to be affected by oral diseases [1].

It is a similar story for those living in rural communities, where accessing dental treatment can be challenging. The WHO said that their findings are “a clear indication that many people do not have access to prevention and treatment of oral diseases” [2].

Then there is also the cost factor, which is a serious problem. Dental fees are typically high, with some people unable to afford them. Therefore, some must live in intense pain, due to not having the money to fund dental operations [1].

Indeed, the WHO have acknowledged that oral diseases can result in “catastrophic costs and significant financial burden for families and communities” [2].

They also noted that the provision of oral health services involves an over-reliance on advanced equipment and materials – something that isn’t available universally [1].

WHO Comments

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is the Head of the WHO. He has said that “many oral diseases can be prevented and treated with cost-effective measures” [2].

Continuing, he said that “oral health has long been neglected in global health” [2]. The statistics in this report certainly support this belief.

The WHO have pointed out that risk factors for oral diseases include a high sugar intake, tobacco use and alcohol abuse [1]. Therefore, it is highly recommended that people change any unhealthy habits they have.

The WHO note that their findings are directed at “policymakers, practitioners, researchers, development agencies and members of the private sector and civil society” [1]. Therefore, they clearly wish for action to be taken to tackle this issue.

Earlier in 2022, the World Health Assembly launched a global strategy on oral health, with the aim of universal health coverage for oral health for all individuals and communities by 2030 [3].

The group are developing a detailed action plan, with the aim of putting this aim into practice [3]. This could result in global improvements in oral health – which is clearly an issue.

These results act as a reminder that oral health is crucial. Oral diseases are largely preventable, with excellent oral hygiene being crucial. Attending dental check-ups and engaging with treatment plans are other actions that can help us all.

Thinking points…

1) Many people require dental treatment without even realizing it. While your mouth, teeth and gums may feel healthy, it is important to still visit a dental clinic twice a year for a check-up. Remember, the earlier that problems are treated, the easier and less costly they are. If left untreated, problems won’t go away, they will worsen. It is therefore crucial to attend check-ups, we recommend booking one now!

2) The report included an estimated prevalence of dental caries in each country. Canada was in the lowest category – which is very positive! This underlines the excellent facilities available across the nation. But we cannot afford to get complacent, and should use the facilities at our disposal. Therefore, remember to attend check-ups regularly, and attend treatment when needed!

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] World Health Organization. (2022). Global oral health status report: Towards universal health coverage for oral health by 2030. Available: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240061484. Last accessed: 26th November 2022.

[2] Medical Xpress. (2022). Mouth diseases hit nearly half the world’s people: WHO. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-11-mouth-diseases-world-people.html. Last accessed: 26th November 2022.

[3] World Health Organization. (2022). WHO highlights oral health neglect affecting nearly half of the world’s population. Available: https://www.who.int/news/item/18-11-2022-who-highlights-oral-health-neglect-affecting-nearly-half-of-the-world-s-population. Last accessed: 26th November 2022.