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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

How Important Is It to Treat a Fear of the Dentist at an Early Age? - Savanna Dental
17Jan
New research has shown that treating dental fear at a young age can have several benefits in the long-term. The research shows that if a person with a fear of the dentist gets appropriate treatment, then they are likelier to attend dental appointments in the future. This study, based in Finland, focused on a clinic targeted at those who had dental fear. The findings show it is important to treat dental fear at a young age, rather than letting it worsen over time.

Recent research has shown that treating dental fear from a young age is crucial for long-term strong oral health. If dental fear is ignored, it risks worsening over time.

The researchers analysed patients at a Finland-based dental clinic that was specifically used to treat those with dental fear [1]. These clinics are rare, but are worth researching.

The researchers reviewed the progress of patients treated at the clinic as a means of finding out if early treatment of dental fear had a positive long-term effect. The results were positive [1].

The vicious cycle

Being afraid of the dentist is very common. For example, approximately 1 in 2 adults say they are at least “somewhat afraid” of the dentist, with 1 in 10 saying they are “very afraid” [2].

As a result, there are various coping mechanisms that people resort to in order to make it through the ordeal. Some will ask to be anesthetized, while some may play music or daydream. But by far the most damaging action is avoidance. This is simply where a person chooses to avoid going to the dentist.

Avoidance of dental appointments can result in worsening overall health. Moreover, studies show that avoidance of dental appointments is associated with poor self-care, and physical health problems [3].

If a person does avoid going to the dentist, their oral health will worsen over time. Moreover, their problems will get progressively worse. What might have started out as a simple cavity filling might morph into something more serious, like an infection that requires a root canal.

Sadly, this pain will only become more intense. Therefore, this will make the patient less likely to return in the future. And thus, the vicious cycle continues.

The Research

The research was produced by researchers at the University of Oulu, Finland [1]. The researchers followed a group of 152 participants that had been treated at a clinic named the Clinic for Fearful Dental Patients [1]. This clinic is located in Oulu, Finland.

This clinic is a specially-crafted area where patients receive help with their dental fear, as well as actual dental treatment [1]. This approach aims to help a patient to overcome their fear of the dentist.

This model is rather unique, and focuses on dealing with dental fear as well as dental care. This is unlike other dental clinics, which focus purely on carrying out treatment. Forms of talking therapy are typically used at the clinic to treat dental fear.

The study looked at the long-term effects of treatment for dental fear. They carried out a follow-up study on the 152 participants [1]. This study was set 10 years later, to see how they were coping with dental treatments a decade after their treatment at the clinic [1].

The researchers asked the 152 participants whether or not they are able to get regular dental treatment without a problem, or if they still require help, or remain a patient at the clinic [1].

In the end, the results proved to be very effective. The researchers found that the majority of the 152 now had no issue in attending a regular dentist [1]. Only a small amount remained uncomfortable. The evidence shows that the treatment does have a positive effect.

Analysing the results

These results build upon previous research into the Clinic for Fearful Dental Patients, which found that 7 out of 10 people treated at the clinic found their dental fear lessened immediately as a result of treatment [4]. Therefore, the evidence shows it has both positive short and long-term effects.

Lead Researcher Taina Kankaala commented on the findings. She said that this study showed the long-term benefits that were possible as a result of treatment at a young age [2]. However, the level of success was “surprising” to Kankaala, who had expected more modest results [2].

Kankaala mentioned that if dental fear wasn’t addressed, then a “severe fear of dental care will usually not ease” on its own, meaning treatment is crucial [2].

It could be suggested that this model of working with nervous or afraid patients can have long-term benefits for both clinics and patients. Clinics will have less cancelled appointments, while patients will be more open to attending check-ups.

In the future, it is possible that similar clinics could be created. They certainly seem to be effective. This research certainly suggests such clinics would be useful for many people.

Thinking points…

  • 1) It is completely normal to feel anxious or uneasy about going to the dentist. But options are available. Here at Savanna Dental, our staff are trained to provide a comforting and warm experience throughout your time with us. You will have the chance to discuss any reservations or concerns, and our professional staff will try to put you at ease!
  • 2) We briefly mentioned about how dental problems will get worse if left untreated. While this is true, it is never too late to seek treatment. Therefore, if you have many untreated oral health problems or haven’t been to the dentist in many years, we recommend that you book a check-up soon! The sooner you are treated, the easier your problems will be to treat.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

It is important for dental problems to be addressed early. Any oral-based 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.

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://savannadental.ca.

References

How Does Bacteria Make Us More Vulnerable to Viruses and Affect Our Gums? - Savanna Dental
9Jan
Recent research has identified a particular type of bacteria that can cause severe oral health problems, regardless of a human’s immune system. Researchers found that a family of proteins that protect humans, called interferon lambdas, are reduced by a bacteria called Porphyromonas gingivalis. Therefore, this can leave a person vulnerable to infection. Porphyromonas gingivalis is also heavily connected to gum disease, making it a dangerous type of bacteria.

Researchers from the University of Louisville’s School of Dentistry in Kentucky, United States, have analysed a form of bacteria that can increase a person’s vulnerability to viruses and speed up the onset of gum disease.

The researchers identified that some of the proteins we rely on to protect us from viruses and infections can actually be suppressed by the bacteria, which is called porphyromonas gingivalis [1].

As a result, the researchers are aiming to raise awareness of this type of bacteria. This case also shows the importance of strong oral health. By having great oral hygiene, we can lessen the chances of bacteria affecting us.

The mouth and viruses

The mouth is commonly the entry point for viruses and infections. Specifically, viruses that attack the gastrointestinal tract and lungs, normally enter via the mouth.

Conditions that enter through the mouth include Herpes, HIV, and even some cancer-causing viruses. Moreover, Covid-19 is known to enter through the mouth [2]. The world has seen in the last two years the impact a virus can potentially have.

The Research

The researchers started by analysing Interferon lambdas – a family of proteins that are known to protect the body. These proteins are produced by epithelial cells in the mouth [3]. Epithelial cells are those that protect compactly packed cells. These cells are responsible for protecting humans from viral infections.

However, the researchers found that a type of oral bacteria called porphyromonas gingivalis reduces the production of these proteins [1]. Therefore, when this bacteria is present, the person becomes more vulnerable to infection [1].

The researchers analysed in depth what happens when porphyromonas gingivalis comes into contact with the human mouth. It was after seeing the effects it had, that they were able to make their conclusions [1].

Another worrying effect that porphyromonas gingivalis had on the human body was gum health. The researchers found that porphyromonas gingivalis causes gum disease. Furthermore, it can also hasten the development of periodontal disease, which is a more severe type of gum disease.

This dangerous bacteria can cause a build up of plaque. Over time, this plaque will eventually weaken enamel. Plaque will cause the gums to become infected, and cavities will also appear.

Gum disease can cause several problems. For example, tooth loss is a possible eventual complication of gum disease. Therefore, it is important for humans to try and avoid gum disease. As a result, this bacteria can be very damaging.

Because porphyromonas gingivalis has been linked to several other conditions, this finding was unsurprising for the researchers. The bacteria has also been connected to Rheumatoid Arthritis and Alzheimer’s Disease [4].

What this study shows

This study shows the importance of trying to reduce bacteria in the mouth wherever possible. In an age of many viruses, the more protection we have, the better.

The best way to limit the amount of bacteria in the mouth is to have excellent oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and attending regular dental check-ups. Sugary and high-calorific foods and drink will often contain harmful bacteria. Therefore, having a healthy diet can also help.

Juhi Bagaitkar, Assistant Professor at the Department of Oral Immunology and Infectious Disease at the University of Louisville, was among those to carry out the research. Bagaitkar commented on the findings [5].

She said that their team had found that the bacteria porphyromonas gingivalis “can completely suppress interferon production and severely enhance susceptibility to viral infection” [5]. Moreover, she continued “these resident oral plaque bacteria play a key role in regulating anti-viral responses” [5].

The authors suggested that in the future, methods of finding ways to increase protection against this specific bacteria could be enacted. Further research into sources of this bacteria is expected in the future.

Thinking points…

  • 1) The bacteria above is known to cause gum disease. Many people worry about gum disease, and rightfully so. If you are worried about gum disease, the best thing to do is book a check-up with your dentist. They will be able to assess your mouth and provide advice and treatment if necessary.
  • 2) You would be surprised at how easily bacteria can make it into the mouth. Anything we put in our mouths will contain bacteria. Whilst food and drink is obviously understandable, there are other habits we should stop. For example, not biting your nails, avoiding chewing on a pen lid or any other unnecessary activity. Think about the practical steps you can take to lessen bacteria in your mouth.

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.

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

References

What Is the Current State of America’s Oral Health? - Savanna Dental
3Jan
A landmark new report released by the National Institutes of Health has provided a comprehensive review of the state of oral health in the United States. The report shows that strong oral health is directly linked to overall health and wellbeing. Moreover, the report found that strong progress has been made in the last two decades in treating oral health conditions. However, there is still room for improvement, including developments in access to care.

The U.S. National Institutes of Health have released a landmark report which has provided a comprehensive review of the overall state of oral health in the United States.

The report, called Oral Health in America: Advances and Challenges [1], has provided a direct follow-up to a 2000 report titled Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General [2]. Both reports involved substantial research.

The main objective of the new report is to provide a road map on how oral health within the United States can improve in the next few years. Therefore, the findings from this report should help to improve treatment outcomes for oral health conditions.

The State of Oral Health in 2000

As mentioned, the last time that a major study took place was in 2000 [2]. The 2000 study found that between 1950 and 2000, “great progress” had been made with oral health, especially in regards to tooth decay and gum disease [2].

The report concluded that strong oral health could be “achieved by all Americans” [2]. However, the authors did find that there was an inequality in terms of some Americans not receiving the same degree of oral health [2].

As a result, many people were still experiencing pain and suffering, despite treatments being available. The report also highlighted that this was lowering the quality of life for many people [2].

Finally, the authors wanted to ensure that oral health isn’t limited to just teeth. Instead, oral health also includes conditions like gum disease, birth defects and throat cancer [2].

The 2021 Report

The focus of the 2021 report is to primarily highlight the importance of oral health, along with its impact on our overall health and well-being [1].

The research found that oral health treatments have improved dramatically in recent years. This has been made possible through various innovations, technological advancements, and improved knowledge of conditions.

The improvements in oral health treatments have led to better oral health for many people. The authors cite lower rates of tooth decay, more treatment options being available, and increased knowledge of dental condition causes as examples of where improvements have been made [1].

Crucially, the report concluded that oral health is heavily connected to physical health [1]. Oral health and physical health conditions commonly share risk factors. Therefore, looking after our oral health has physical health benefits too. Heart disease, strokes and chronic infections are all potential physical health consequences of poor oral health [1].

Healthy behaviour can improve and help to maintain an individual’s oral health, the report found. But these “behaviours” can be reliant on social and economic conditions [1]. For instance, the researchers found that substance abuse and mental health conditions negatively affect oral health [1].

The report mainly found improvements had been made. However, issues still remain in terms of achieving equity in all Americans receiving the required dental care [1]. The main problems with this are access to care, insurance issues, and then the costs involved [1].

What next?

The Acting Director of the National Institutes of Health, Lawrence A. Tabak, called the report “very significant” [3]. He went on to say that the report presented “the most comprehensive assessment of oral health currently available in the United States” [3]. Tabak went on to mention that the report shows “unequivocally, that oral health plays a central role in overall health” [3].

Improvements are possible though. The authors make a few different recommendations to improve oral health in the United States. This includes the need for healthcare professionals to work together “to provide integrated oral, medical and behavioral healthcare in schools, community health centers, nursing homes, and medical care settings, as well as dental clinics” [3].

The report also found that there is a need to improve access to care, which will involve “addressing the rising cost of dental education, expanding insurance coverage, and improving the overall affordability of care” [3]. This has been an ongoing issue for many years, with millions of Americans still unable to access dental care, with cost an issue for many [4].

But the authors do give a positive outlook for the future. Rena D’Souza, of the National Institutes of Health, sees a future where “systemic inequities that affect oral health and access to care are more fully addressed, and one in which dental and medical professionals work together to provide integrated care for all” is possible [3]. This will certainly be the aim in the next few years.

In the future, this will be seen as an important report that gave a snapshot to the oral health situation in the United States. It can be used in the future as a basis to measure improvements made.

Thinking points…

  • 1) One of the main takeaways from this report is how oral health can affect physical health, and vice versa. With this in mind, if you are currently having physical health problems, could this potentially be related to oral health? If so, think of how you can improve your oral health, you may see a positive effect on your physical health.
  • 2) The best way to see the overall state of your oral health is to book a check-up with your dentist. They will be able to give you a thorough update on the state of your oral health, and provide a treatment plan if necessary. We recommend booking a check-up as soon as possible.
  • 3) The authors of this report noted that the Covid-19 pandemic has been impacting dentistry, which is true. However, most dental clinics have re-started offering routine appointments. It is understandable to be apprehensive about returning to the dentist, but consider doing so, as any problems can be detected and acted upon.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals and some cosmetic services. It is important for dental problems to be addressed early. Any oral-based 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.

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.

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.

References

Does Praising Children on Brushing Their Teeth Have a Positive Effect on Their Oral Health? - Taradale Dental
20Dec
A new study has found that there are significant benefits derived from parents congratulating and praising their children’s tooth-brushing. As a result, the researchers have argued that parents should take more of an active role with their children’s oral health. Overall, this can help with strengthening the oral health of their children.

A study released by American researchers has found that when parents praise their children for and whilst brushing their teeth, that their oral health subsequently benefits.

The research analyzed how the actions of parents affected their children. There were interesting findings. As a result, there are many lessons to be learned.

Background

It is important for children to brush their teeth from a young age. By getting used to a toothbrush from a young age, it can instill good habits that can be lifelong [1]. As a result, they are likelier to enjoy lifelong strong oral health.

Past research has shown that it is crucial for parents to show interest in their children’s oral health [2]. Moreover, they should set a good example for their children by having strong oral hygiene themselves.

What the Research involved

The study was completed by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, Yale University and the Santa Fe Institute [3]. This triumvirate of institutions sought to analyze the daily toothbrushing habits of three year old’s.

The study involved 81 three year old’s who were learning to brush their teeth. The researchers wanted to include families from multiple demographics in order to get a broad picture of the situation. As a result, the participants came from many different ethnicities, American states and different social classes, which was judged by household income [3].

The data used in the study was collected over a 16-day period. In these 16 days, parents submitted videos of their children’s nightly toothbrushing. Parents were instructed to let their child brush their teeth themselves [3].

When reviewing the footage, researchers looked at the persistence of the child, and any talk from parents. Moreover, the researchers looked especially for any praise that the parent was giving their child [3].

Finally, parents also completed daily surveys throughout the 16 days. This survey asked the parents to self-assess their stress levels, how their child was sleeping (including the duration), and how their child’s mood was [3].

The Results

The researchers were able to make a number of conclusions from the study. Firstly, they found that the persistence of children in brushing their teeth fluctuated from day-to-day [3].

Most interestingly, those that received praise from their parents were more likely to brush their teeth for longer, and show improved moods [3]. Therefore, it becomes clear that praising a child while they are brushing their teeth is very helpful.

For parents that gave less or infrequent praise to their children, it correlated with shorter toothbrushing times. Also, in what may be unrelated, these children typically had less or more interrupted sleep [3].

What this means

Perhaps the most important finding from this study is that parents have a very important role to play in their children’s oral health. Specifically, praising children whilst they brush their teeth is important.

The researchers found that praise such as “good job”, “good girl/boy” and “very good” were all very helpful [3]. Any sort of praise seems to be helpful.

The authors did point out that there were some limitations with their study. For instance, the authors stated it didn’t give a worldwide view. Instead, it had a western slant. Moreover, the authors acknowledged that further studies were needed to confirm their findings. For instance, a bigger sample size could be helpful.

Allyson Mackey is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania. She commented on the findings [4]. Mackey said that “fluctuations in parent praise relate to fluctuations in child persistence” [4]. Mackey remarked that this clearly showed the importance of parental praise of children while toothbrushing.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Have you got a young child? If so, there is a lot to learn from this study. For instance, think to yourself, do you praise them while they brush their teeth? If not, this study shows it could be very beneficial!
  • 2) Remember that as a child grows up, including in their teenage years, parents should always show an interest in the oral health and brushing habits of their children. This isn’t something that should stop after a few years.
  • 3) There is a lot of research that shows it is important for adults to set a good example to their children when it comes to oral health. This includes going for regular check-ups yourself, looking after your own teeth, and attending the dentist with children when they have a check-up. With this in mind, have you scheduled your next dental 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 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.

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.

References

  • [1] Atarbashi-Moghadam, F., & Atarbashi-Moghadam, S. (2018). Tooth Brushing in Children. Journal of Dental Materials and Techniques. 7 (4): p181-184.
  • [2] Poutanen, R., Lahti, S., Tolvanen, M., & Hausen, H. (2006). Parental influence on children’s oral health-related behavior. Acta Odontologica Scandinavica. 64 (5): p286-292.
  • [3] Leonard, J. A., Lydon-Staley, D. M., Sharp, S. D. S., Hunter, Z., Liu, A., Park, A. T., Bassett, D. S., Duckworth, A. L., & Mackey, A. P. (2021). Daily fluctuations in young children’s persistence. (Pre-publication issue). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/cdev.13717.
  • [4] Society for Research in Child Development. (2021). ‘Good job brushing your teeth!’ Study shows parent praise might encourage children’s persistence. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2021-12-good-job-teeth-parent-children.html. Last accessed: 19th December 2021.
Is There a Connection Between Types of Bacteria and the State of Gum Disease? - Savanna Dental
13Dec
Recent research has found that a “bacterial signature” exists, which enables scientists to be able to mark a shift from healthy teeth and gums to gum disease. In practice, this will be able to help dentists in knowing the stage of gum disease that a patient is at. Therefore, they will be able to provide improved advice and more accurate treatment.

Japanese researchers from the Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) have found a “bacterial signature” exists. This refers to the researchers finding that they can mark the point that a patient can shift from having healthy teeth and gums to gum disease.

Gum disease continues to affect so many people. As a result, any research that can help prevent, or at least slow the onset of, gum disease, is highly desirable.

In practice, if this research is confirmed as accurate, then dentists and their patients could benefit from increased insight into gum disease and better treatment plans.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is a very common condition. For example, statistics show that around 90% of the world’s population has a form of gum disease [1].

There are different stages of gum disease. Gingivitis is seen as a rather mild form of gum disease. Periodontal disease is a severe form of gum disease.

Gum disease involves inflammation of the gums. This is caused by a build-up of plaque and bacteria. Plaque develops over a period of time, eventually wearing down tooth enamel. Consequently, tooth decay will develop, hastening gum disease.

An eventual consequence of gum disease is tooth loss, due to the bones around the teeth being too weak. Studies have shown that many bacteria types contribute to bone loss in gum disease [2].

Bacteria is another area of concern for the health of the mouth. Some bacteria can be good for breaking down food. However, the majority of bacteria is bad, and will contribute to gum disease.

Research

Researchers from the TMDU carried out the research, which was published in the journal mSystems [3]. Their study involved 21 patients.

The researchers took plaque samples from three sites within the mouths of the 21 patients. All 21 participants had been diagnosed with periodontal disease [3].

The three sites included one area that was “healthy”, one area that showed signs of gingivitis, and another area that clearly had periodontitis [3].

Researchers then interpreted the results by using a special technique called “metatranscriptomic” analysis [3]. This determined the different types of bacteria at each site.

The results showed that there were indeed clear differences in the level of bacterial composition between the three different sites [3].

Certain types of bacteria that are known to be associated with gum disease were, as predicted, higher in the areas with periodontal disease [3]. For instance, these included eubacterium nodatum and filifactor alocis [3].

What this means

By reviewing these three different sites, researchers were able to identify the key differences between them. Moreover, they were also able to review how different bacteria types affected each area [3].

This enabled the researchers to come up with a “bacterial signature” that should help dentists to identify early signs of gum disease, and provide more accurate recommendations for those who already show signs of gum disease. Finally, it could also help to slow the onset of gum disease.

Lead researcher Takashi Nemoto commented on the findings [4]. He suggested that the changes they observed between each site showed the “shift from health to periodontitis is accompanied by changes in both the structure and the complexity of the bacterial network” [4].

Nemoto said that previous studies had “explored differences in bacterial communities in healthy mouths or those affected by gingivitis or periodontitis” [4]. However, the research from the TMDU was innovative as it analysed how such “communities changed during progression from health to periodontitis” [4].

Researchers continue to find ways to tackle gum disease. Because of how common it is, there is no shortage of effort being put in to trying to improve treatment outcomes.

Thinking points…

  • 1) A bad habit that many people have is nail-biting or chewing on a pen lid. Did you know that these habits involve bacteria coming into the mouth? Anything that goes into our mouths will include bacteria. What habits can you cut out?
  • 2) As this study shows, it is important for gum disease to be picked up on early. At a check-up, a dentist can help to identify if you have signs of gum disease and give advice. Consider making an appointment!
  • 3) If you are particularly concerned about gum disease, or know that you have gum disease, are you aware of scaling and root planing? These treatments involve a deep clean of the gums, and is known to be an effective way of improving gum health.

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. 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.

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.

References

  • [1] Pihlstrom, B. L., Michalowicz, B. S., & Johnson, N. W. (2005). Periodontal diseases. Lancet. 366 (9499), p1809-1820.
  • [2] Tominari, T., Sanada, A., Ichimaru, R., Matsumoto, C., Hirata, M., Itoh, Y., Numabe, Y., Miyaura, C., & Inada, M. (2021). Gram-positive bacteria cell wall-derived lipoteichoic acid induces inflammatory alveolar bone loss through prostaglandin E production in osteoblasts. Scientific Reports. 11 (13353). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-92744-5.
  • [3] Nemoto, T., Shiba, T., Komatsu, K., Watanabe, T., Shimogishi, M., Shibasaki, M., Koyanagi, T., Nagai, T., Katagiri, S., Takeuchi, Y., & Iwata, T. (2021). Discrimination of Bacterial Community Structures among Healthy, Gingivitis, and Periodontitis Statuses through Integrated Metatranscriptomic and Network Analyses. mSystems. 6 (6). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1128/mSystems.00886-21.
  • [4] Tokyo Medical & Dental University. (2021). That’s so meta(transcriptomics): Distinctive bacterial taxonomic and functional profiles in mouth disease. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2021-12-metatranscriptomics-distinctive-bacterial-taxonomic-functional.html. Last accessed: 10th December 2021.
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