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the NDP's Pledge for Dental Care in Canada - Savanna Dental
8Jun
Dental care in Canada continues to be a topic of debate. In a recent development, the NDP has filed a motion aimed at improving access to dental care for those who are unable to afford dental care. There is a strong need for an improvement in access for dental care across Canada.

Dental care in Canada is a rather controversial subject and is often a talking point during political party addresses.

Now, Canada’s fourth biggest political party – the New Democratic Party (NDP) – is making an effort to improve access to dental care among Canada’s low-income citizens.

Canada’s public healthcare system has neglected dental care for several years, though recent developments suggest that this might soon change.

The statistics in Canada are alarming – with the cost of dental care providing a significant barrier to the wider population accessing the treatment that they badly need.

The NDP’s Vision

The NDP’s leader Jagmeet Singh has consistently voiced his support for an improvement in access to dental care.

In 2019, Singh said “no one should have to deal with the pain or lifelong damage of going without dental care”. He went on to state “millions of Canadians don’t have any dental coverage at all” [1].

Singh remains vocal in his support for further access to dental care. Just last week, the NDP MP Jack Harris put forward a motion in the House of Commons, which asked the Federal Government to create a dental care plan for uninsured Canadian families with a household income of less than $90,000 [2].

The motion was seconded by MP Don Davies. However, with the NDP being Canada’s fourth-largest party, there will be difficulty in implementing this plan, though these steps may be part of a long-term change.

This plan would involve a fund being distributed across the Canadian provinces. The provinces would then need to arrange coverage for families with a low-income, and arrange reimbursements with dentists.

The NDP have suggested that a sliding scale could be used, with either full or partial dental costs being covered – the exact amount of which would depend on household income.

The NDP have pointed out that this amounts to 4.3million Canadians – a colossal amount. Despite the costs involved in this plan, the NDP have justified their proposal by highlighting that emergency room-based dental emergencies cost taxpayers at least $155million annually [3].

Research has long-shown that an income-related inequality exists in Canada in relation to receiving dental care [4].

The Worrying Statistics

There are several alarming statistics that suggest there is a strong need for change. One study found that 16.5% of the Canadian population have declined recommended dental treatment on the basis of cost [5].

Recent statistics suggest that many Canadians are badly in need of help that they can’t afford. A study showed that in a 12-month period, just 75% of Canadians visited a dentist, with 23% of Canadians being put off from visiting the dentist due to the cost involved [6].

Moreover, the Covid-19 pandemic has led to dental care being largely disregarded, which has created “a dental disaster”, according to the President of the FDI World Dental Federation [7].

Poor oral hygiene (including avoiding regular dental check-ups) can cause gum disease, tooth decay and bad breath. Eventually, treatment will be required.

Poor oral health is also linked to physical health problems, and can also cause mental distress – both of which add further strain to Canada’s healthcare system.

The NDP have suggested that the most marginalized people – “indigenous people, children, single parent families, young workers, women and low-income Canadians” – are those that are worst affected by the current format [2].

These statistics appear to back up the arguments put forward by the NDP, and shows the need for lower dental costs in Canada.

Savanna’s commitment to cost

Our dental clinic Savanna Dental is located in Calgary, Alberta. We are based in a convenient area of Calgary, and care deeply about our patients.

Looking on a more localised level, research in 2012 found that over 90% of Calgary residents have decayed, missing or filled teeth – which shows the importance of regular visits to the dentist [8].

With Calgary’s population largely needing oral health improvements, and concerns existing over costs – it is useful for the population to be aware that our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental adheres to the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which allows us to provide affordable care to our patients across our wide range of services.

For those with concerns regarding the cost of dental care, the Alberta Dental Fee Guide provides accurate information on the nature of costs, and what is involved in each treatment type.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Here at Savanna Dental, we offer a range of services. It is important to remember that with good oral hygiene, a nutritious diet and avoiding certain foods and drinks, most dental problems are preventable.

But when problems do arise, it is important for them to be treated as soon as possible. We cannot understate the importance of early detection. If left untreated, what might start out as a small filling may morph into a problem that requires a more complex procedure like a root canal.

Therefore, attending regular dental check-ups (at least twice a year) is very important. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and avoiding sugary snacks are all important measures to protect our oral health.

When treatment is required, we provide a personalised treatment plan for each patient, and ensure that they receive a high standard of care at all times.

Summary

While it is unknown if the NDP’s motion will secure much support, there does appear to be a growing realisation that the current dental care system in Canada is potentially unsustainable in the long-term.

But for now, it is crucial to maintain strong oral health. We would love you to visit our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental! We are always happy to welcome new patients, and look forward to providing them with a courteous and comfortable experience. Click here to visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca, where you can see the range of services we provide.

Can a Vitamin C Deficiency Cause Bleeding Gums - Savanna Dental
1Jun
Research has shown that a Vitamin C deficiency can cause bleeding gums, which is an early warning sign of gum disease. When we increase our intake of Vitamin C, these problems are reversed. It is therefore crucial that we consider our Vitamin C intake, as this can have several benefits for our oral health.

Having bleeding gums presents both short and long-term problems. Aside from being unpleasant, bleeding gums are also usually a sign of gingivitis, which is an early stage of periodontal disease – better known as gum disease.

While having bleeding gums doesn’t necessarily mean that a person has gum disease, it is often an early warning sign, with gum swelling typically the other main symptom to look out for.

Gum disease is actually very common, with research showing that approximately 90% of the world’s population has some form of periodontal disease [1].

If left untreated, bleeding gums can result in gums pulling away from the teeth, which will eventually result in tooth loss and bone problems.

In the past, most dental professionals have treated bleeding gums by advising patients to simply brush and floss more regularly. But while this might help to an extent, it doesn’t treat the underlying causes.

But recent research shows that a main cause of bleeding gums is a Vitamin C deficiency. This interesting research suggests that by increasing our Vitamin C intake, we have the potential to improve our oral health.

What is the research?

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Washington has found a link between a Vitamin C deficiency and bleeding gums [2].

To do this, the researchers analysed the results of 15 clinical trials across 6 different countries that had revolved around nutrition, diet and general health. These 15 trials involved 1,140 “mostly healthy” participants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Health and Nutrition Examination Survey of 8,210 US citizens was also used as part of the research.

The results showed that individuals with low Vitamin C levels in their bloodstream were far more likely to suffer from bleeding gums. Most importantly, the researchers also found that increasing daily intake of Vitamin C can reverse the issue of bleeding gums.

This research also backed up previous work that had been done in the subject area. This included a study that reviewed 14 previous studies that had analysed Vitamin C intake and the subsequent effect on the gums. Like the above study, this research found that those with a lower Vitamin C intake had a higher chance of having periodontal disease [3].

In fact, a diet with a regular deficiency in Vitamin C can lead to oral side effects as soon as within 60-90 days [4].

What you need to know about Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the many vitamins that the body requires to function at an optimum level. It is also known as ascorbic acid.

Vitamin C serves many functions in our body, including helping to protect cells and keep them healthy. It also strengthens bones, and is crucial in aiding the process of wound healing [5].

As established above, a lack of Vitamin C can cause bleeding gums, though other signs exist too. These include slow-healing wounds and swollen joints [6].

If the body doesn’t get enough Vitamin C on a consistent and regular basis, the life-threatening condition Scurvy can eventually appear.

Should I consume more food with Vitamin C?

Based on the results of this study, we would certainly suggest that there are benefits to consuming more sources of Vitamin C.

Foods that are high in Vitamin C include citrus fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit), broccoli, red bell peppers, blackcurrant and strawberries.

Vitamin C supplements are widely available, and can be a good way to ensure we get the recommended amount of the vitamin. This is a particularly useful intervention for those who have diets low in Vitamin C.

But as we always say here at Savanna Dental, while it is important to eat a balanced diet, it is crucial that we maintain strong oral health. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and making healthy lifestyle decisions like avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

The most important thing is to ensure that you attend the dentist for regular check-ups. The earlier that problems are detected, the easier treatment will be.

When problems are detected, we are able to offer our patents a range of services at our dental clinic in Calgary. Whether it is purely an examination, a filling or more complex procedures like a root canal or dentures, we are able to provide the treatment that our patients need.

We offer our patients a relaxed and comfortable environment at our Calgary-based dental clinic, and are able to provide tailored care to each of our patients.

Here at Savanna Dental, we adhere to the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which allows us to provide affordable care to our patients across our wide range of services.

Summary

Consuming more Vitamin C can be useful for many reasons. It certainly appears to help our oral health, with the research consistently showing that an increased intake of Vitamin C can stop bleeding gums.

This is useful advice, though it is important to maintain excellent oral hygiene. An important part of this is to regularly visit the dentist. Our dental clinic in Calgary is an excellent place to do this.

We recommend that you take a look at our website https://savannadental.ca, where you can read more about us and what we offer to our patients.

  • [1] Pihlstrom, B. L., Michalowicz, B. S., & Johnson, N. W. (2005). Periodontal diseases. Lancet. 366 (9499), p1809-1820.
  • [2] Hujoel, P. P., Kato, T., Hujoel, I. A., & Hujoel, M. L. A. (2021). Bleeding tendency and ascorbic acid requirements: systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Nutrition Reviews. nuaa115
  • [3] Tada, A., & Miura, H. (2019). The Relationship between Vitamin C and Periodontal Diseases: A Systematic Review. International journal of environmental research and public health, 16 (14), p2472-2483.
  • [4] Levine, M., Katz, A., & Padavaity, S. J. (2005). Vitamin C. In: Shils, M. E., Shike. M., Ross, A. C., Caballero, B., & Cousins, R. J. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 10th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. p507-524.
  • [5]. NHS. (2020). Vitamin C. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-c/. Last accessed: 29 May 2021.
  • [6] Galimberti, F., & Mesinkovska, N. A. (2016). Skin findings associated with nutritional deficiencies. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. 83 (10), p731-739.
Is a Plant-Based Diet Good for Your Oral Health - Savanna Dental Clinic
18May
A plant-based diet has the potential to have a positive effect on our oral health, with benefits including lessening inflammation of the gums, lowering sugar intake and possibly preventing oral cancer. But the evidence isn’t all positive, and a plant-based diet doesn’t act as a replacement for strong oral hygiene.

The link between a nutritious diet and strong oral health is well-known, but how does a plant-based diet effect our dental health? With plant-based diets becoming increasingly popular in recent years, it is important to consider this diet’s impact on oral health.

While a plant-based diet can take many forms, it will typically consist of foods derived from plants – such as vegetables, fruits, nuts and beans. Across Canada, many people are choosing to adopt plant-based diets, underlining their popularity.

Plant-based diets are known to have many physical health benefits, such as stimulating weight loss, lowering cholesterol levels and decreasing the chances of cardiovascular disease [1].

But as well as physical health benefits, plant-based diets can have a positive effect on dental health, as we show in this article. However, there are some important considerations to be made.

Plant-based diet’s effect on oral health

Oral health continues to be very problematic for many people, with the World Health Organization going as far to say that untreated dental caries is the most common health condition worldwide [2].

The effect of a plant-based diet on oral health is a very-well studied area, with results largely pointing to plant-based diets having a positive effect on oral health, albeit with some caveats.

Mouth cancer presents one of the most serious issues in oral health (click here to read more). Figures from the Canadian Cancer Statistics found that in 2020, an estimated 5,400 Canadians were diagnosed with oral cancer, with the condition causing 1,500 deaths [3]. The American Dental Association have stated that “current evidence supports a diet high in fruits, vegetables and plant-based foods for prevention of oral cancer [4], which shows how a plant-based diet is considered to contribute to preventing oral cancer.

One of the biggest problems facing the population in the modern day is periodontal disease – better known as gum disease. Signs of gum disease include swelling (also known as inflammation) and redness around the gum.

A plant-based diet can lessen inflammation, as it is normally high in a form of acid known as gamma-linoleic acid, which is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties [5].

Furthermore, one study found that participants with a vegetable-based diet (similar to a plant-based diet) had significantly fewer symptoms of gum disease than study participants that had more of a more conventional and traditional diet [6].

As well as having anti-inflammation qualities, plant-based diets also typically cut out a lot of sugar – something that is a key cause of many oral health problems. Sugar has a debilitating impact on teeth, and is one of the leading drivers of tooth decay and eventual cavities.

Foods and beverages that contain refined sugars (essentially the unhealthiest type of sugar) are notoriously bad for our teeth. Foods and drinks high in refined sugars include ice cream, confectionery and soda. They are known to increase inflammation and acidity in the mouth.

Again, by using a plant-based diet, refined sugars are largely avoided. While sugar will still be consumed, such as in fruits, these are at least naturally occurring sugars which are less harmful to the mouth.

A word on citrus fruits

While there are clearly positives, as outlined above, it is important to mention the negative impact that citrus fruits can have. Studies show that citrus fruits such as lemons, limes and oranges can erode tooth enamel faster than sources of refined sugars.

One large study found that by consuming citrus fruits more than twice a day was associated with 37 times greater odds of dental erosion when compared to those who didn’t. For comparison, those that had a daily can of soda had 4 times greater odds of dental erosion than those who avoided soda [7].

This study suggests that it is important to consume citrus fruits in moderation, and serves as a reminder that just because a food is seen as “healthy”, it doesn’t mean that it is totally free from harm.

Should I start having a plant-based diet?

The most important thing for our health (both oral and physical) is to have a well-balanced and nutritious diet. This doesn’t mean that you must have a plant-based diet!

While this diet does clearly have a positive effect on our oral health, it is too restrictive for some people.

But what we can all do as a minimum is to add more vegetables to our meals and continue good oral habits. This incudes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, avoiding sugary snacks where possible, and visiting the dentist on a regular basis for check-ups.

What we can offer at Savanna Dental

Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental offers our patients a huge range of services. We provide all of our patients with a comfortable environment, and are situated in a convenient location in Calgary.

Early detection of dental problems is crucial, which is why it is important to attend regular dental check-ups. If further treatment is required, we will provide you with a tailored and effective treatment plan that meets your circumstances.

Summary

As we have shown, plant-based diets do have the potential to be excellent for our oral health. But regardless of the diet chosen, there is no replacement for regular dental check-ups and strong oral hygiene.

We would love you to visit our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental, click here to visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca where you can take a look at the services that are available to our patients.

  • [1] Mazur, M., Bietolini, S., Bellardini, D., Lussi, A., Corridore, D., Maruotti, A., Ottolenghi, L., Vozza, I., & Guerra, F. (2020). Oral health in a cohort of individuals on a plant-based diet: a pilot study. La Clinica Terapeutica. 171 (2), p142-148.
  • [2] United Nations General Assembly. (2011). High Level Meeting on Prevention and Control of Non-communicable Diseases. Available: https://www.un.org/en/ga/ncdmeeting2011/. Last accessed: 14th May 2021.
  • [3] Canadian Cancer Society. (2020). Oral Cavity Cancer Statistics. Available: https://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/oral/statistics/?region=on. Last accessed: 9th April 2021.
  • [4] Chainani-Wu, N., Epstein, J., & Touger-Decker, R. (2011). Diet and prevention of oral cancer: strategies for clinical practice. Journal of the American Dental Association. 142 (2), p166-169.
  • [5] Rett, B. S., & Whelan, J. (2011). Increasing dietary linoleic acid does not increase tissue arachidonic acid content in adults consuming Western-type diets: a systematic review. Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism. 10 (8), p36.
  • [6] Staufenbiel, I., Weinspach, K., Forster, G., Geurtsen, W., & Gunay, H. (2013). Periodontal conditions in vegetarians: a clinical study. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 67 (8), p836-840.
  • [7] Järvinen, V. K., Rytömaa, I. I., & Heinonen, O. P. (1991). Risk factors in dental erosion. Journal of Dental Research. 70 (6), p942-947.
The Dental Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
11May
Intermittent fasting has been known for a long time as being an effective approach towards weight loss and limiting calorie consumption. However, there are also several benefits that intermittent fasting can do for our dental health, as we explain in this article.

Intermittent fasting is a type of diet that is becoming increasingly popular. It involves a person adhering to strict phases of eating and then not eating (fasting).

Intermittent fasting typically involves a person using a 16:8 approach, which means 16 hours of fasting and an 8-hour period where a person consumes calories. Other variations include 18:6, or the more extreme 20:4.

Intermittent fasting has been shown to reduce stress, speed up our metabolism, and contribute towards weight loss [1]. It has even been shown to increase our lifespan by protecting against cardiovascular diseases [2].

But as well as these benefits, intermittent fasting also has a positive impact on oral health, as we will be showing in this article. These benefits include lessening harmful bacteria in the mouth, the regulation of pH Levels, and decreasing the chances of gum disease.

Eating and drinking in a way that benefits our oral health is highly-appealing. As a result, intermittent fasting can be recommended as a great diet to benefit oral health. This should result in fewer visits to the dentist.

Dental Benefits of fasting

While most people that engage in intermittent fasting do so for weight loss purposes, there are also many dental benefits of fasting.

If a person eats and drinks throughout the day, sugar will come into contact with the gums and teeth regularly. This causes plaque, which will eventually cause decay and cavities, and over time, gum disease.

Instead, when fasting, the mouth is limited to just a few hours a day of potential damage. Therefore, arguably the biggest benefit to intermittent fasting is the fact that there are fewer hours where the teeth can be damaged from sugar and harmful bacteria entering the mouth.

Saliva is also an important area in oral health. It is important for the pH levels (levels of acidity in the mouth) of saliva to be regulated. Sugary and starchy foods can affect acidity levels in the mouth, resulting in damaging acids affecting the teeth and wearing down enamel. Therefore, intermittent fasting also helps the regulation of pH levels, as there are fewer hours for food and drink to cause acidity.

Indeed, these statements have been backed up by scientific research. Studies have showed that low calorie diets such as intermittent fasting can reduce periodontal inflammation and gum disease [3]. Other research shows that fasting can help to improve chronic dental diseases and even improve the health of the bones in the mouth [4].

Gum disease affects so many people, as do cavities. In fact, statistics show that seven out of ten Canadians will at some point in their life have gum disease [5]. Therefore, it is clear how an intermittent diet can benefit our oral health, though a nutritious diet and brushing our teeth regularly are important too.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

While we do recommend intermittent fasting, it is important to state that this shouldn’t be seen as a replacement for regular dental check-ups.

We always emphasise that early detection of dental problems is crucial. The best way to detect problems is attending regular check-ups.

Our dental clinic Savanna Dental is located in a convenient area within Calgary, Alberta. We do everything we can to take care of our patients, and ensure they have a comfortable experience with us.

When treatment is required, our Calgary-based dental clinic has a wide range of services available to our patients, including regular fillings, root canals, scaling, dentures and many others. We provide a tailored treatment plan for each patient, to ensure their dental needs are met.

Summary

While intermittent fasting certainly has health benefits, it might not be for you. Regardless of the way you consume food and drink, what matters most is that you eat a healthy and balanced diet. This, along with regular dental check-ups and consistent tooth-brushing, can help towards maintaining strong oral health.

We offer dental check-ups and a range of treatments at Savanna Dental – located in Calgary. Click here to visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca, where you can see the various services we have available to our patients.

  • [1] Patterson, R. E., & Sears, D. D. (2017). Metabolic Effects of Intermittent Fasting. Annual Review of Nutrition. 37. p371-393.
  • [2] Mattson, M. P., & Wan, R. (2005). Beneficial effects of intermittent fasting and caloric restriction on the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry. 16 (3). p129-137.
  • [3] Branch-Mays, G. L., Dawson, D. R., Gunsolley, J. C., Reynolds, M. A., Ebersole, J. L., Novak, K. F., Mattison, J. A., Ingram, D. K., & Novak, M. J. (2008). The effects of a calorie-reduced diet on periodontal inflammation and disease in a non-human primate model. Journal of periodontology. 79 (7). p1184–1191.
  • [4] Wulansari, L., Kaboosaya, B., Vo, T. N. N., Ding, L., & Kasugai, S. (2017). The effects of fasting regimen on periodontal tissues. Clinical Oral Implants Research. 28 (14). p162-162.
  • [5] Canadian Dental Association. (2021). Gum Disease FAQs. Available: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/faqs/gum_diseases_faqs.asp. Last accessed: 7th May 2021.
Dental Health After 1 Year of Covid - Savanna Dental
4May
The Covid-19 pandemic continues to affect the world, with over one million confirmed cases in Canada alone. While Covid-19 has caused disruption in so many areas, one of the hidden effects of the pandemic is based around oral health, with health professionals believing that the current situation facing the dental industry is highly-worrying, with one labelling it as a “dental disaster”.

It has been over a year since Covid-19 started to cause havoc across Canada, with restrictions remaining in place to this day. Social distancing, wearing masks and lockdowns have all become part of day-to-day life.

Everyone is aware of the deadly nature of Covid-19, which has caused (at the time of writing) over three million deaths around the world [1]. However, there are also many unseen consequences of the deadly virus. One area that has been heavily affected by the global pandemic is the dental health of the population, with dentists and health professionals warning against long-term oral damage as a result of Covid-19.

“A Dental Disaster”

Such is the damage caused, Dr. Gerhard Konrad Seeberger, the President of the FDI World Dental Federation, has referred to the current situation as “a dental disaster” [2].

Dentists have been speaking about a higher incidence of tooth decay and gum disease since the Covid-19 restrictions began. Causes of this aren’t entirely clear, though increased snacking between meals and poor mental health and associated overeating appear to be potential aggravating factors.

Perhaps the biggest factor has been dental appointment postponements. Unfortunately, the restrictions have meant that many dental clinics have been forced into postponing regular appointments, and instead have been purely focusing on emergency treatments.

Many people have therefore not attended the dentist in over a year, which is leading to an increase in undetected dental problems.

The effects of poor oral health

Statistics show that only 37.5% of Canadians brush their teeth twice a day [3], with many neglecting their oral health. Poor oral hygiene can result in many problems, including physical health problems.

Unfortunately, for many people that have not attended the dentist in over a year, they are likely to be having dental problems. If left untreated, simple cavities can develop into more serious problems.

Then there is gum disease, which the Canadian Dental Association have found will affect seven out of ten Canadians at some point in their lives [4]. Early detection of gum disease is crucial, as the earlier treatment begins, the better the chance of successful treatment. But missing appointments has meant these problems are left untreated for too long.

It is therefore important for us to all consistently brush our teeth at least twice a day, floss regularly, and have a nutritious diet. Ultimately, this can help fight against decaying teeth that can cause many problems.

What we can offer our patients at Savanna Dental

At Savanna Dental we are aware of the problems that the Covid-19 pandemic has had on the population. It is entirely understandable that in a year where we have all been battling to survive, that trips to the dentist may not be considered as an essential thing to do.

But the truth is, delaying dental check-ups can result in multiple problems, as this article has shown. We understand that many people are apprehensive regarding visiting the dentist after a long time away, but we offer a comfortable and non-judgmental environment for our patients.

We are a Calgary dental clinic, and provide services such as fillings, root canals, dentures, scaling and more. We are always happy to help our patients, and will provide an effective and tailored treatment plan to meet their needs.

Summary

We are all aware of the impact caused by Covid-19. But very few are aware of the impact the pandemic is having on oral health. It is now more important than ever before to look after our mouths.

Attending regular dental appointments is crucial, and can keep our oral health strong. We would love you to visit our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental, click here to visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca, where you can see the great range of services available to our patients.

Study Finds Elderly Patients Are Visiting the Dentist Less and Less, With Worrying Consequences - Savanna Dental
27Apr
Various studies have found that as we age, we are less likely to visit the dentist, which has worrying long-term consequences. Many people neglect their oral health, without realising the impact it has on their physical health. Attending regular check-ups is crucial, and can help with early detection of problems. At Savanna Dental, we welcome patients of all ages, and provide ongoing support and a range of treatments for our patients.

As we age, our physical health typically declines, leading to numerous visits to the doctor, multiple medications being prescribed, and other ailments adding to our troubles. But one area that many people neglect as they get older is their oral health, which not only further affects their physical health, but it can also lead to oral pain that has long-term consequences. This is of course avoidable with regular visits to the dentist.

The evidence

A study published in the Journal of Research on Aging found that as patients get older, they become less likely to attend dental appointments [1]. These results were even more pronounced for ethnic minorities.

The study tracked how American adults aged 51 and over interacted with dental services. Almost 90% of those in the study were American citizens, with the remainder foreign-born nationals.

The study found that 70% of respondents visited a dentist at some point in the two years prior to the study, but for those over 80, the rate dropped significantly.

Moreover, the study determined that among immigrants and ethnic minorities, that the number of people who visit the dentist regularly is comparatively lower when compared to American nationals. Similar trends regarding access to dental services in relation to social class also appear to exist in Canada [2].

Why is this?

It is an interesting question – why is it that over 80’s and ethnic minorities are less likely to go to the dentist? The aforementioned study suggests that low awareness of the importance of oral health, lack of access to dental care, and having no insurance coverage are key factors.

It has been well documented how Medicare does not provide support for dental care (click here to read more) – which causes problems for many Canadians. Covid-19 has had a big impact on the finances of most Canadians, which has limited their access further to dental clinics.

Concern over costs have been longstanding around the world, with a study in 2008 finding that many elderly patients weighed up dental costs with functionality and social appearance. They also considered future living costs versus dental costs and finally, whether or not the dental work would be worthwhile in terms of how long they live [3].

As mentioned, ethnic minorities also appear to be less likely to visit the dentist. Similar factors to the above, along with other potential areas such as racial discrimination and language barriers, are likely to explain this.

The importance of maintaining healthy oral hygiene

Something that many people are unaware of is the link between oral health and overall physical health. Therefore, it is very important to attend regular dental check-ups. Gum disease, inflammation and even mouth cancer are just some of the possible complications arising from poor oral health.

A 2017 report published in the United Kingdom found that dental surgeons were becoming increasingly concerned about the impact that poor oral health was having on older people’s general health [4]. The report also confirmed that dental problems were linked to malnutrition and pneumonia in older people.

Perhaps even more worrying, the Harvard Medical School found in 2010 that the chance of having tooth damage severe enough to require a root canal or similarly invasive procedure triples once you’re over the age of 65 [5]. This emphasises the importance of looking after our mouth.

As we always say, early detection is crucial. We really can’t emphasise this enough! What may start out as a small cavity that can be filled easily, could, left untreated, become something more serious where evasive action may need to be taken in the future. So instead of a simple filling, a more complex procedure like a root canal or even an extraction may be needed.

What we can offer at Savanna Dental

Here at Savanna Dental, we welcome everyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or nationality – we guarantee a welcoming and courteous patient experience. We know these are difficult times to visit the dentist, but we aim to provide a comfortable environment for our patients in a convenient location within Calgary.

We are also aware that finances can be an issue. But here at Savanna Dental, we set our prices in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which ensures that our patients have access to affordable healthcare at a competitive price.

We offer many different treatments at our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental. These treatments can be tailored to the varying needs of our patients. Regular check-ups are the best way to avoid problems, though when problems are identified, we have a range of treatments to restore positive oral health for our patients.

Summary

Looking after our oral health is crucial, especially as we get older; with the statistics above showing the potential problems facing the elderly. But by visiting the dentist regularly, we are able to detect problems early, and act appropriately.

As always, brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and eating a balanced and nutritious diet can all help. When you do need help, or want to schedule a check-up, we will be more than happy to assist, check out our website for more https://savannadentalclinic.ca!

  • [1] Zhang, W., Wu, Y. Y., & Wu, B. (2019). Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Dental Service Utilization for Foreign-Born and U.S.-Born Middle-Aged and Older Adults. Research on Aging. 41 (9): p845-867.
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