Category: Oral Health

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is known for protecting our teeth and boosting our oral health. Fluoride is important for both adults and children. This is supported by various studies and research articles. Many parents often wonder about fluoride, and have questions about its use.

Fluoride is important for both adults and children alike, with this natural mineral aiding our oral health significantly.

Fluoride is best-known for being found in toothpaste and mouth rinses. However, it can also be found in drinking water, food and beverages.

While there are some concerns about exposing children to fluoride, it is healthy, and children need it. Parents often have many questions about fluoride for their children, with any information being useful!

What is fluoride?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral. It is known for being capable of stopping or slowing the process of tooth decay and the development of cavities.

When sugars from food and drink combine with the bacteria in our mouth, acid is formed. Acid erodes the teeth, causing cavities. However, fluoride is able to protect our teeth, and aids in the process of rebuilding our enamel.

Fluoride and water fluoridation: is it safe?

As mentioned, fluoride is naturally occurring. It is found in all bodies of water on planet Earth. Moreover, this means that sometimes fluoride is found in drinking water.

In some cases, governments or policy makers have decided to add small concentrations of fluoride to the public water supply. Therefore, this has the intention of getting the public to drink water that has fluoride in it.

Around 35% of the world’s population lives in areas with fluoridated water [1]. Countries that have water fluoridation programs include the United States, Australia and Canada.

Research has shown that water fluoridation has a positive impact on children. This includes studies which have demonstrated that children who live in areas with fluoridated water typically have less cavities than children from areas without fluoridated water [2].

Furthermore, statistics show that after the United States began water fluoridation at the end of the Second World War, rates of tooth decay sharply decreased [3]. This trend has continued since then.

Despite this, there has been some controversy over water fluoridation. Some have argued that it has a detrimental effect on the development of children, and causes fluorosis – a condition that involves over-consumption of fluoride in children.

However, past research has shown though that water fluoridation does not impact brain development in children [4]. Moreover, fluorosis is very rare.

Scientists and organizations like the American Dental Association are in agreement that water fluoridation is a positive thing, and has helped society substantially.

When should a child start using fluoride toothpaste?

So with fluoride being deemed important and safe for children, it is natural to wonder when a child should start using a fluoridated toothpaste.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend using a grain of rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste twice a day from when the first tooth appears – up until the age of 3 [3].

After turning 3, the AAP recommend using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste twice a day [3]. Non-fluoride toothpaste should be avoided.

Teaching a child to spit out toothpaste is useful, as swallowing isn’t advisable. It is recommended that parents supervise their child’s toothbrushing until they become entirely competent alone.

Pregnancy and fluoride

A common concern that many people have is the possible impact that fluoride can have on an unborn child.

If you are pregnant and worried about the impact of fluoride on your unborn child, you can be assured that the public water supply is checked regularly to ensure its safety and cleanliness.

You can always contact your local water utility company for any queries or concerns about your water supply and fluoride levels.

Some people decide to drink bottled water instead. However, given the benefits of fluoride, it is advisable to consume water from the tap. As seen, drinking water from the tap is helpful for both adults and children – including the unborn!

Thinking points…

1) Some people have access to fluoridated water, while others don’t. Regardless of if you do or don’t, you still need to remember to have excellent oral hygiene. While water fluoridation can help, it cannot replace toothbrushing and flossing. Moreover, remember to attend regular dental check-ups, as these allow a dentist to examine your mouth, offer advice and suggest treatment if necessary. We recommend that you book an appointment soon!

2) Are you a parent? If yes, remember that there are many things you can do to help your children with their oral health. For example, showing an interest in their dental hygiene, helping them brush their teeth, and taking them to regular dental appointments can all help! You could even attend a dental appointment alongside your child! You could book an appointment for you both 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] Iheozor-Ejiofor, Z., Worthington, H. V., Walsh T., O’Malley, L., Clarkson, J. E., Macey, R., Alam, R., Tugwell, P., Welch, V., & Glenny, A-M. (2015). Water fluoridation for the prevention of dental caries. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 18 (6): CD010856. DOI: https:/www.doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD010856.pub2.

[2] Slade, G. D., Grider, W. B., Maas, W. R., & Sanders, A. E. (2018). Water Fluoridation and Dental Caries in U.S. Children and Adolescents. Journal of Dental Research. 97 (10). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0022034518774331.

[3] Lewis, C. (2024). Pediatrician explains why children need fluoride. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-09-pediatrician-children-fluoride.html. Last accessed: 4th October 2024.

[4] Do, L. G., Spender, A. J., Sawyer, A., Jones, A., Leary, S., Roberts, R., & Ha, D. H. (2022). Early Childhood Exposures to Fluorides and Child Behavioral Development and Executive Function: A Population-Based Longitudinal Study. Journal of Dental Research. 102 (1). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/00220345221119431.

Gum Disease is very difficult to treat, despite it affecting so many people around the world. However, new research suggests that a narrow-spectrum antibiotic called FP 100 could help to eradicate a type of oral bacteria that is linked to gum disease. This is an exciting development that could revolutionize the treatment of gum disease.

New research has looked into the possibility of a narrow-spectrum antibiotic successfully eradicating a type of oral bacteria that has been linked to Gum Disease [1].

Moreover, the antibiotic has the benefit of not harming the oral or gut microbiomes – which is a very positive element of this research too.

Gum disease is a condition that impacts huge amounts of people. Therefore, any findings that can assist in the treatment of this condition are welcomed.

About Gum Disease

Gum disease is an oral health condition. It involves the gums becoming swollen, inflamed, and painful. Mild gum disease is called Gingivitis, and severe gum disease is called Periodontitis.

Gum disease is incredibly common. For example, statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that approximately 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women aged 30 years or above have some level of periodontitis [2].

Gum disease has the potential to develop to the point where the jawbone weakens to the extent where tooth loss can happen.

Current treatment involves slowing the progression of gum disease. However, such treatments are costly, and don’t actually stop the condition.

The type of bacteria involved in this research is called fusobacterium nucleatum. Past research has confirmed that fusobacterium nucleatum is a key pathogen in gum disease [3].

The Research

The research was carried out by a team of researchers from the Forsyth Institute. Their findings have been published in the Journal of Oral Microbiology [1].

The research involved FP 100 – also known as Hygromycin A. This is a small molecule, narrow-spectrum antibiotic. Narrow-spectrum antibiotics are a form of antibiotic that can only eradicate, or limit the damage of, a limited number of bacterial species [1].

To begin, the researchers explained what fusobacterium nucleatum does. They said that this bacteria enters human cells and easily spreads to other parts of the body, where they colonize [1].

The researchers wanted to see how FP 100 would deal with harmful bacteria in a bacterial community. To set this up, a mouse was induced with fusobacterium nucleatum. Moreover, the mouse had periodontitis [1].

Therefore, the mouse had both healthy and unhealthy bacteria – including the fusobacterium nucleatum – in its oral cavity.

Then, FP 100 was introduced to the bacterial community, where the researchers left it for 48 hours [1].

Over this period, the researchers waited to see how FP 100 interacted with the community. The community was analyzed at 24-hour intervals using 16S rRNA sequencing [1].

At the end of the first 24 hours, the levels of fusobacterium nucleatum had already reduced. Then, after 48 hours, the levels of harmful bacteria had significantly reduced [1].

This meant that FP 100 had managed to substantially reduce the levels of fusobacterium nucleatum over a 48-hour period [1].

Amazingly, the researchers noted that the healthy bacteria – which the mouth needs – was unaffected by FP 100. Instead, it was purely the harmful bacteria which was substantially reduced.

Overall, the findings are very positive. The antibiotic appears to be able to eradicate the harmful bacteria and prevent the progression of gum disease – both without harming us.

What will happen next?

The findings have enormous potential for the future treatment of gum disease. Arguably, FP 100 has the potential to transform treatment of gum disease.

The researchers were understandably delighted with the findings. For example, Alpdogan Kantarci – the lead author – said that “this type of black and white data almost never happens” [4].

Kantarci explained that with FP 100, “we can eliminate fusobacterium nucleatum from the oral cavity, reverse tissue destruction and prevent disease progression” – all without harming the microbiome [4].

Due to the narrow-spectrum qualities of FP 100, it means that it only targets the fusobacterium nucleatum. It doesn’t attack beneficial bacteria. This is a marked improvement on regular antibiotics – which attack both harmful and beneficial bacteria [1].

This antibiotic also has the potential to exceed treating gum disease. The researchers believe it could help to prevent several chronic diseases, including heart disease, some types of cancer and arthritis [1].

The Forsyth Institute and biotechnology company Flightpath Biosciences have filed a joint patent application for FP 100 [4]. They are aiming to create further clinical trials going forward.

FP 100 appears to have numerous positive points. Not only does it provide oral health benefits, but it can also extend to physical health benefits too.

Thinking points…

1) Gum disease was a key topic in the above research. Because gum disease typically develops over a long period of time, it is difficult for dentists to track its progression. Therefore, it is important to attend regular dental check-ups, as these offer a way for dentists to keep track of any development of gum disease. If they do notice signs of gum disease, they can provide practical advice. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) While gum disease cannot be cured, there are things that can be done to slow the progression of the condition. For example, these include root planing and scaling. If you have gum disease, you could ask your dentist about these options – as they could be helpful. Why not discuss them with your dentist at your next check-up?

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] Yakar, N., Unlu, O., Cen, L., Hasturk, H., Chen, T., Shi, W., He, X., & Kantarci, A. (2024). Targeted elimination of Fusobacterium nucleatum alleviates periodontitis. Journal of Oral Microbiology. 16 (1). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/20002297.2024.2388900.

[2] Eke, P. I., Thornton-Evans, G. O., Wei, L., Borgnakke, W. S., Dye, B. A., & Genco, R. J. (2018). Periodontitis in US Adults. The Journal of the American Dental Association. 149 (7): p576-588. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.adaj.2018.04.023.

[3] Liu, P-F., Haake, S. K., Gallo, R. L., & Huang, C-M. (2009). A novel vaccine targeting Fusobacterium nucleatum against abscesses and halitosis. Vaccine. 27 (10): p1580-1595. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaccine.2008.12.058.

[4] Forsyth Institute. (2024). First narrow-spectrum antibiotic successfully eliminates Fusobacterium nucleatum, a gum disease pathogen. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-09-narrow-spectrum-antibiotic-successfully-fusobacterium.html. Last accessed: 12th September 2024.

Medi-Cal has helped millions of people receive dental care in the State of California. However, there have been concerns in recent years about a lack of support for those that need dental implants. Legislation which could change this situation has been tabled, but concerns about this have also been raised.

Medi-Cal is California’s own Medicaid healthcare program – which aims to provide various medical services for low-income families.

Dental treatment is among the services offered by Medi-Cal. While this can be helpful for some people, others find it difficult to get the treatment they need.

This presents a very challenging situation for those with severe dental conditions that cause pain and therefore need urgent treatment [1].

For example, many people are finding out that getting dental implants is very difficult. However, a new bill is making its way through California legislature, which may change this situation.

Medi-Cal

Medi-Cal has been in place for several decades. While California is renowned for its highly-affluent areas, there are also some incredibly poverty-stricken regions too.

Medi-Cal has the intention of helping low-income individuals and families with healthcare costs. Other vulnerable populations, like the disabled or blind, are also eligible for coverage. Medi-Cal is means tested, so the amount of coverage that people receive is in line with their income.

As of 2024, over 15 million people were enrolled in Medi-Cal, equating to approximately 40% of the population of the state [2].

The difficult situation

Some dental services are included within Medi-Cal. However, some dental clinics do not accept Medi-Cal, meaning receiving coverage does not guarantee treatment [1].

For example, the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research found that only 21% of California dentists saw Medi-Cal patients of all ages [1]. Therefore, some people do not live in an area that offers dental care covered by Medi-Cal.

One specific area of concern is dental implants. Implants are artificial teeth that are implanted into the jawbone. They look and feel like a real tooth, and are a popular option for people who have had to have a tooth removed.

Dental implants offer strong results, with past research funding that there is a 90-95% success rate over 10 years for dental implants [3].

Teeth usually need to be removed due to either extensive tooth decay, trauma or gum disease. Those with a lack of teeth face numerous problems. Chewing, drinking and swallowing become very difficult. Moreover, self-esteem can also be impacted.

Dental implants are rarely routinely offered. Medi-Cal covers implants only in cases where “exceptional medical conditions are documented” [1]. Unfortunately, this is rather vague.

This causes many problems for those that have lost teeth. They are faced with the prospect of living without some teeth, or paying large sums in order to get implants. For many, this is not financially feasible.

Could this soon change?

However, this difficult situation may change soon. There is a bill that is making its way through the California Legislature that would expand Medi-Cal coverage of dental implants [1].

The bill was introduced by Democratic Senator Aisha Wahab. Wahab has said that “if you need an implant, you should be able to get it, especially our most vulnerable” people [1].

If this bill becomes law, patients could qualify for an implant in cases where their dentist believes an implant is the best option to replace a missing tooth [1].

The Senate passed the bill on a unanimous basis in May, with a vote currently pending in the Assembly Appropriations Committee [1]. The bill is slowly moving through legislature, and could eventually come into effect.

If the bill does come into effect, then it is likely that many patients will benefit. They may be able to get much-needed dental care.

Concerns about the bill

However, despite the positives, there are also a number of concerns. These surround cost, and concerns about the potential impact of the bill on dental clinics.

The Department of Health Care Services – who oversees Medi-Cal – have estimated that the cost of implementing the bill would be between $4 billion and $7 billion [1].

However, this is likely to be difficult, with Governor Gavin Newsom having recently signed a state budget which featured an estimated deficit of $46.8 billion – meaning that costs need to be cut.

There are other concerns too – including how much dental clinics would be reimbursed. Depending on various factors, the cost of implants can vary anywhere between $3,000 and $9,000 [1].

Alicia Malaby, spokesperson at the California Dental Association, has spoken on behalf of dental clinics. Malaby says that “reimbursement rates need to cover the costs of providing the service” – with implants also expensive for dental clinics to arrange [1].

Furthermore, Malaby said that “coverage is not meaningful unless the state is willing to fully invest in it to ensure people can actually access the care they need” [1].

The California Dental Association have also raised concerns about how invasive and time-consuming implant surgery is. They are not in support of the current bill.

Instead, they are supporting alternative legislation which would require Medi-Cal to cover two teeth cleanings and examinations a year for those aged 21 and over [1].

Summary

There are certainly concerns over the dental implant situation with Medi-Cal. Many people are in desperate need of oral health treatment.

However, as discussed above, there are a number of concerns too. This includes the cost burden and the impact on dental clinics.

Trying to find a compromise will be challenging. With various potential legislations being tabled, we may see a solution soon.

Thinking points…

1) As discussed earlier, dental implants are excellent options for those who need to have a tooth removed, or have already had some extracted. Implants are easy to fit, act naturally, and can boost your self-esteem. Here at Savanna Dental, we provide implant services, and will be happy to discuss your situation with you. We would love to speak to you soon, you can find out more about us at our website – https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

2) Cost is definitely a barrier to accessing dental care for many. However, here at our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental, our fees are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. Therefore, this means that our prices are transparent, competitive and reliable. This ranges from our check-ups to procedures. We hope to see you at our Calgary dental clinic soon!

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] Castle, M. (2024). Medi-Cal’s dental care gap: Getting a tooth pulled is easy—much harder to get an implant. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-08-medi-cal-dental-gap-tooth.html. Last accessed: 29th August 2024.

[2] California Department of Healthcare Services. (2024). About Us. Available: https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Pages/AboutUs.aspx. Last accessed: 29th August 2024.

[3] 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. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103%2Fjispcd.JISPCD_380_17.