Home Tag: "dental care" (Page 10)

Tag: dental care

Is Teeth Grinding Actually a Bad Thing?
2Oct
Bruxism – which is also known as teeth grinding – is a common condition that affects a large number of people. There are a range of adverse effects caused by teeth grinding, which can take place while both awake and asleep. But there have been some recent suggestions that bruxism actually isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, is this true?

Bruxism – also known as teeth grinding – is a condition that is becoming increasingly common. In fact, bruxism is actually the dental diagnosis that has increased the most post-pandemic [1].

We are used to hearing that teeth grinding is bad for us. It can erode enamel, affect our gums, cause fillings to fall out, and disturb our sleep [1].

However, it has recently been proposed that bruxism may not necessarily be a bad thing, and that there could be some benefits to it. But is this true?

What is bruxism?

Bruxism involves a person grinding their teeth. It is normally done involuntarily while a person is asleep. However, it can also be done while a person is awake [1].

As mentioned earlier, bruxism is the dental diagnosis that has increased the most following Covid-19. It has almost quadrupled, with its incidence rising from 6% to 23% [1].

It isn’t entirely clear what causes bruxism. However, it is believed to be linked to stress, anxiety, smoking, recreational drug use, and some medications [2].

Is bruxism actually beneficial?

Interestingly, there have been some suggestions that bruxism could actually be beneficial. Some research has supported this theory.

For example, a study in 2020 found that teeth grinding while awake could act as a way of relieving stress [3]. Therefore, this activity was found to help the wellbeing of stressed individuals.

Moreover, the study also suggested that teeth grinding while asleep can protect against gastric reflux and obstructive sleep apnoea [3]. These are two conditions that can cause a range of problems.

These factors do suggest there could be some benefits to bruxism. However, the benefits are far outweighed by the negatives associated with bruxism.

As mentioned, bruxism can erode enamel, which makes us more vulnerable to cavities. Moreover, it can also cause fillings to fall out. Many people find it disturbs their sleep and can cause headaches, migraines, or joint pain.

Treatment of bruxism: The role of biofeedback

When looking at treatment options, something called biofeedback represents an interesting choice. Biofeedback involves patients using a device called an electromyograph [1].

This device measures electrical activity in the muscles. Using this device, a patient can learn to identify and reduce muscle tension through adopting a jaw position using the device [1].

In order for the jaw to be relaxed and therefore at rest, it is important for it to have no contact between the teeth. The electromyograph can help facilitate this arrangement [1].

Moreover, it has been proposed that stress-relief exercises can reduce instances of bruxism. These can include exercising regularly, relaxation and deep-breathing techniques.

Smaller actions like wearing a mouth guard while asleep, putting post-it notes in visible places to remind yourself not to grind your teeth, and even going out for a walk can all be other ways of helping protect your mouth from bruxism.

Overall, while there might be a few benefits to bruxism, there are far too many negatives involved. For those that do suffer from bruxism, getting help is important.

Thinking points…

[1] Remember that attending regular dental appointments is key for your oral health. Dental appointments allow a dentist to take an in-depth look at the oral health of their patient. If treatment is needed, then this can be arranged. Given that early detection is vital, remember to attend a dental clinic at least once every six months. We recommend booking an appointment now!

[2] Do you grind your teeth? If so, remember that there are things that you can do. Breathing exercises, regular exercise, and a consistent sleep routine can all be helpful. You can also get some advice from a dental professional. As mentioned above, having regular dental check-ups can also be very helpful.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

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

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

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

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

References

[1] Ortega, L. J., Jiminez-Pajaeror, E. W., & Gonzalez, M. G. (2023). Why grinding your teeth might not always be a bad thing. Available: https://theconversation.com/why-grinding-your-teeth-might-not-always-be-a-bad-thing-211971. Last accessed: 29th September 2023.

[2] NHS. (2022). Teeth grinding (bruxism). Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/teeth-grinding/. Last accessed: 29th September 2023.

[3] Soto-Goni, X. A., Alen, F., Buiza-Gonzalez, L., Marcolino-Cruz, D., Sanchez-Sanchez, T., Ardizone-Garcia, I., Aneiros-Lopez, F., & Jiminez-Ortega, L. (2020). Adaptive Stress Coping in Awake Bruxism. Frontiers in Neurology. 11: 564431. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389%2Ffneur.2020.564431.

Is Flossing Actually Effective? And Is Having the Correct Flossing Technique Important?
25Sep
Recent research has looked into how flossing technique impacts the effectiveness of flossing. Flossing is a key part of oral health and is an excellent tool to protect your teeth and gums. However, flossing is something that many people ignore. For those that do floss, the research has shown that using the correct technique can boost their oral health.

The importance of flossing cannot be understated. It is crucial for removing debris that a toothbrush can’t reach, and helps protect against cavities and bad breath.

However, while most people brush their teeth regularly, flossing is something that many people forget to do. Furthermore, for those that do floss, many do not know how to do so effectively.

Recent research has looked into what impact proper flossing technique has [1]. The results show that flossing is very important and has a positive impact. This impact is more pronounced when proper flossing technique is used.

Background

Flossing can help remove debris from food and anything else in the mouth. Furthermore, it stops dental plaque from forming, aiding cavity prevention. It also helps gum health.

The United Kingdom’s NHS recommends that people floss from the age of 12 [2]. But while dentists always praise flossing, there has been some debate on its effectiveness.

2016 Associated Press article

One of the key factors in this research was a somewhat controversial article from the Associated Press in 2016 [1]. The article, which used findings from numerous studies, stated that there was “little proof that flossing works” in the long-term [3].

At the time, it caused some debate on if flossing was actually effective. Dentists pointed out that gum disease can take many years to develop – making long-term studies unrealistic [1].

The Research

The research was carried out by a team from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Their findings have been published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene [1].

As mentioned, the research team wanted to provide evidence that dental flossing is an effective activity, which could dispute the findings of the Associated Press [1].

One of the first things they realised was that many people weren’t flossing accurately. Therefore, this limited the effectiveness of flossing.

They recruited 36 study participants. These participants all had a diagnosis of Gingivitis – the earliest stage of gum disease [1]. Gingivitis is a very common condition. With bleeding gums being a common symptom of gingivitis, the researchers decided this would be the key area that they would look out for.

Then, the participants were split into two groups. One group were trained to floss using a technique called “adapted horizontal vertical flossing”. Meanwhile, the other group were left to continue their usual flossing style [1].

The participants were asked to floss every night for an eight week period. After eight weeks, the researchers looked to see how common bleeding gums were among both groups.

Incredibly, those that had used the adapted horizontal vertical flossing technique had seen a 70% reduction in bleeding gums [1].

Also, those that flossed using their own technique saw a 30% reduction in bleeding gums [1]. This shows that even when the optimal technique isn’t used, any form of flossing can still have a positive impact.

Overall, the researchers concluded that people that learned and consistently used proper flossing technique showed fewer signs of gum disease and other oral health problems. However, the study also found any form of flossing can be effective.

What is proper flossing technique?

The study recommended that the below technique should be used [1]:

• Wrap each end of a 15–18-inch length of floss around the ring or middle finger of both hands.

• This should leave around 5-6-inches of floss to use. Hold this floss with the index finger or thumb of each hand. Use around three quarters of floss between the fingers of each hand.

• Start at one end of either the top or bottom set of teeth and apply the floss to the curved surface of the tooth – essentially bending a “c” shape around the tooth.

• Carefully move the floss in a forward-backward motion and upwards and downwards – this should remove any debris

• Continue this process for each tooth [1]

By following the above technique, it should result in effective flossing. This can boost your oral health and protect your gums.

The authors were pleased with the outcome of the research. Paul Levi of Tufts University, said that this was the first study “to prove that a person using floss with a specific technique will have less gum infection than a person who just does what they normally do” [4].

Making flossing a regular part of your oral hygiene routine is crucial! Furthermore, as this study shows, using an effective method is equally important!

Thinking points…

[1] Flossing can protect against cavities and gum disease. Another important part of preventing oral health is to attend regular dental check-ups. A check-up provides a dentist with an opportunity to take a look at your oral health in detail, and identify any problems. It is important to frequently attend check-ups. We recommend booking an appointment now!

[2] Many people do not floss. This might be due to not feeling it is worthwhile, being lazy, or just forgetting. But as this research has shown, it can have very strong results for our oral health. Therefore, try and find a way of incorporating flossing into your bedtime routine – and ensure you do it either just before or straight after brushing your teeth. We recommend figuring out a routine now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

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

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

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

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

References

[1] Basali, D. H., Hong, I., Finkelman, M., Dragan, I. F., Gyurko, R., Uzel, N. G., & Levi, P. A. (2023). The Effect of Dental Flossing Instructions and Technique on Interproximal Bleeding: A randomized control trial. Journal of Dental Hygiene. 97 (4): p36-45.

[2] NHS. (2019). Why should I use dental floss?. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/dental-health/why-should-i-use-dental-floss/. Last accessed: 23rd September 2023.

[3] Associated Press. (2016). Untitled. Available: https://apnews.com/article/f7e66079d9ba4b4985d7af350619a9e3. Last accessed: 23rd September 2023.

[4] Ragovin, H. (2023). You could be flossing all wrong, if you’re even flossing at all. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-09-flossing-wrong-youre.html. Last accessed: 23rd September 2023.

How Can Researchers Improve the Materials Used in Dental Treatments?
11Sep
Dental treatments like cavity fillings use a range of materials to ensure their effectiveness. However, the results are normally only a temporary fix, rather than a solution for life. Currently, efforts to improve the longevity of dental materials are ongoing, with researchers aiming to create longer-lasting materials. This could help to save money for both consumers and healthcare providers.

One of the major problems in dentistry currently is the fact that when we get treatments like cavities, a root canal treatment, or cosmetic dentistry like veneers, they are only temporary fixes.

While these temporary fixes will often last many years – ideally we would only require treatment once. In fact, the thought of repeated treatment can put some people off attending the dentist.

However, in positive news, research into making longer-lasting dental materials is ongoing [1]. Progress is being made, with the hope that the research will result in longer-lasting results.

The current situation

A large range of materials are needed in dentistry. For example, these materials can be used for cavity fillings, implants, in root canal treatments and veneers.

Common materials used in dental restorations include amalgam, zinc, resin, porcelain, zirconium, and bonding agents. This is by no means an exhaustive list, with a vast range used.

But while these materials do a great job of providing a fix, this is typically only a short-term measure. For example, research shows that cavity fillings last up to around 15 years, depending on the materials involved [2].

Therefore, the current situation does not provide lifetime solutions. This results in high costs for both consumers and healthcare providers. Resultingly, longer-lasting materials would make a huge difference!

Project CUPIID

In an effort to improve the current situation, The Department of Energy has set up an initiative which will provide $33.6million of funding to a team of researchers for “Project Cupiid” [1]. Project Cupiid stands for “Complex, Unique, and Powerful Imaging instrument for Dynamics” [1].

The project is bringing together chemists, physicists, engineers, bioengineers, and material scientists [1]. They hope to develop materials that can withstand the notoriously harsh conditions of the mouth.

There is an awareness among the researchers that this isn’t something that only dental researchers can create. This is why the multi-disciplinary approach is being taken [1].

By having this multi-disciplinary team, the researchers will be able to look at how different materials function within the human body. Combinations of materials will also be examined in an effort to produce the most effective and long-lasting materials.

The potential benefits

Dr. Fernando Esteban Florez of the University of Oklahoma’s College of Dentistry is a key figure in the ongoing research. Florez has said that the total cost saving for longer-lasting restoration materials would be approximately $5billion per year [1].

Cost is definitely the main benefit. Florez has pointed out that “the cost to fabricate these materials, the cost to replace restorations, the amount of time that the patient has to go to the dental office, the impacts in the oral health, those are huge” [1].

This would also mean less oral discomfort. For instance, for someone that has had a root canal treatment, they are likely to be in excruciating pain when the materials eventually fail. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to tell when this will be. Therefore, by having longer-lasting materials, this is less likely to happen.

Florez is reluctant to get too excited, instead saying that currently, “it’s very hard to pinpoint how revolutionary this is” [1]. But the hope is that in the long-term, researchers will look back at this project as a time that dentistry was revolutionized forever!

The researchers aim to produce positive results soon. Florez has said that the team would like to produce new products within the next 2 years [1]. This would surely provide a range of long-term benefits for patients, dental clinics, and dentistry as a whole.

Thinking points…

1) It can be easy to think that if you have had recent treatment, that you don’t need to return to the dentist again for a while. But as this research shows, dental treatments won’t last forever! Therefore, it is important to regularly attend your dentist for a check-up. A check-up will provide a dentist with a chance to take a look at your oral health and ensure everything is looking as it should. Remember not to get complacent – book an appointment now!

2) We mentioned above that it is difficult to know how long your dental treatments will last. However, there are things that you can do to try and boost the longevity of treatments. For example, if you have cavity fillings, eating hard foods, chewing aggressively, or ignoring the filling when brushing your teeth – can all make the life expectancy of the filling worsen. Remember to take good care of your teeth, as this can reduce the likelihood of further treatment being required.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. 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™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Breasette, A. (2023). Revolution for dentistry, research for longer lasting dental materials. Available: https://kfor.com/news/local/revolution-for-dentistry-research-for-longer-lasting-dental-materials/. Last accessed: 9th September 2023.

[2] Jokstad, A. (2002). How long do fillings last?. Evidence-Based Dentistry. 3: p96-99. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.ebd.6400146.

What Impact Does the Tooth Fairy Have on Children?
4Sep
The Tooth Fairy is an important part of oral health for children. A recent poll has looked into how the oral health of children is impacted by the tooth fairy. The findings are very positive, with the tooth fairy helping to promote strong oral health habits. It also acts as a way of reminding children of the importance of their dental health – making it very useful!

Every year, August 22nd marks “National Tooth Fairy Day” – a day which is used to remind parents and children of the importance of oral health and raise awareness of the oral health of children.

In line with this date, Delta Dental have released findings from their 2023 Original Tooth Fairy Poll® – which has been in operation for 25 years [1].

About the Tooth Fairy

The tooth fairy actually dates back many centuries, having originated in Europe. In more recent decades, it has become a regular fixture in American households.

A visit from the tooth fairy is normally a very exciting prospect for children – and often results in a financial reward. Therefore, it can be a great way of incentivizing strong oral health.

Typically, a child will place their lost tooth under their pillow prior to sleeping. After waking up, money is normally placed there – with the idea that the tooth fairy has come to visit during the night.

The 2023 Tooth Fairy Poll

The Tooth Fairy Poll® takes place each year. This poll is commissioned by Delta Dental, who interviewed 1,000 parents of children aged 6 to 12. These parents were asked about the tooth fairy and its impact on their children and their oral health [1].

The tooth fairy is an important part of life for most Americans. The poll found that 81% of American homes involve the tooth fairy in their day-to-day lives [1].

Overall, the results are overwhelmingly positive in support of the tooth fairy! The various statistics put forward by the poll show how useful it can be.

Perhaps the most important finding is that 1 in 3 parents say the tooth fairy instils good oral health habits in their children [1]. Therefore, mentioning the tooth fairy on a regular basis can be useful for parents, as it appears to have a positive impact on children.

The research also found that the tooth fairy can be used as a way of motivating children to look after their teeth more [1]. Parents can suggest to their children that the tooth fairy is watching them closely, which can make them likelier to pay extra attention to their oral health.

There are other benefits too for parents. Among these is the finding that 27% of children go to bed early when anticipating a visit from the tooth fairy [1]!

One of the most noticeable changes in recent years is the value of a tooth! The average value in 2023 is $6.23 [1]. Incredibly, this has risen from $1.30 since the poll first started – representing a 379% increase [1]!

In terms of regions within the United States, southern states valued teeth the highest – providing an average of $6.59 per tooth [1]. Meanwhile, midwestern states valued teeth the lowest – although this was still $5.63 on average [1].

A “beloved visitor”

Gabriella Ferroni, the Senior Director of Strategic Communications at Delta Dental, discussed the poll’s findings. Ferroni said that “the tooth fairy is a beloved visitor into homes across the country” [1].

Continuing, Ferroni said that the tooth fairy helps to foster “proper oral hygiene habits at an early age, which in turn supports overall health” [1].

Ferroni recommends that parents can “encourage positive dental care” by reminding their children that the tooth fairy “prefers the cleanest, healthiest teeth” [1].

These various steps can all help to promote the importance of oral health to children. This can make them have excellent habits throughout their life which can boost both their oral and physical health.

Thinking points…

1) As shown in the findings above, the tooth fairy can have a positive impact on children. Therefore, if you are a parent, you can utilize the benefits of the tooth fairy! This will reward your children for looking after their teeth and brushing regularly. Regularly reminding children of the tooth fairy and its potential benefits can definitely help! Remember to talk about oral health with your children!

2) Looking after oral health is important for both children and adults. For adults, a great way of setting an example can be to take your children to your own dental check-ups. Furthermore, you can attend your children’s check-ups too! Make sure you attend dental check-ups once every six months, as this will help to keep your oral health strong. We recommend booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. 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™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Delta Dental Plans Association. (2023). Delta Dental poll finds Tooth Fairy welcomed into most U.S. homes. Available: https://www.deltadental.com/us/en/tooth-fairy/press-release.html. Last accessed: 1st September 2023.

Could a Saliva Sample Help Identify Cardiovascular Disease?
28Aug
Research into Cardiovascular Disease has recently taken place, with the aim of being able to identify its early warning signs. To achieve this, researchers have found the use of a simple saliva sample can be helpful. The sample can provide health professionals with a range of information, including highlighting areas which are associated with cardiovascular disease. This approach could be easily implemented into regular dental check-ups.

Cardiovascular Disease is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It has the potential to be life-threatening. Therefore, looking out for the warning signs of cardiovascular disease is important.

Now, a research team has created a way of identifying the early warning signs of the condition – through a simple saliva sample [1].

This creation is exciting and has the potential to be an excellent tool for medical professionals to use when diagnosing cardiovascular disease.

What is Cardiovascular Disease?

Cardiovascular disease relates to conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels [2]. It can also be referred to as Heart Disease.

Symptoms of the condition include chest pain, shortness of breath and palpitations [2]. It can be a life-threatening condition. Moreover, the condition can damage a range of organs, including the brain and the kidneys [2].

Often, lifestyle factors play a part in the development of cardiovascular disease. Smoking, being overweight and inactivity are all risk factors [2]. Furthermore, genetics and a high blood pressure can also play a role.

The Research

The research team featured scientists from Mount Royal University in Calgary, Canada. Their findings were published in the Frontiers in Oral Health journal [1].

A key part of the work of the scientists involved the knowledge that there is a connection between cardiovascular disease and gum disease [1]. This fact formed a key element of their research.

The research team looked to find out if low levels of oral inflammation is clinically related to cardiovascular health [1]. To do this, they set up a study.

There were 28 participants in the study, aged between 18 and 30. The participants were all adults that did not smoke, did not take any medication that could impact cardiovascular health, and they did not have any history of periodontal disease [1].

The 28 participants were asked to fast for six hours prior to attending the laboratory. Once they got to the laboratory, the participants rinsed their mouths with water. Then, they rinsed their mouths with saline, which was collected by the researchers for analysis [1].

Following this, the participants laid down for 10 minutes for an electrocardiogram – which provided the researchers with further information on their overall health.

The scientists gathered the results and found that a high white blood cell count in saliva was linked to an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease [1]. The authors explained that a large number of white blood cells is an indicator of gum inflammation.

Therefore, in response to their question into levels of oral inflammation, it was found that oral inflammation is clinically related to cardiovascular health [1].

Author Comments

These findings are very interesting. Taking a saliva sample is very simple, and can clearly have numerous benefits, including being able to spot the early warning signs of cardiovascular disease.

The researchers were very pleased with the findings. One of the most beneficial aspects of this is the simplicity of the rinse and how it could be easily implemented at a dental check-up.

Moreover, Michael Glogauer of the University of Toronto said that “the mouth rinse test could be used at your annual checkup at the family doctors or the dentist” [3]. Glogauer confirmed that it would be “easy to implement as an oral inflammation measuring tool in any clinic” [3].

However, the authors did caution that this was a small study [1]. Therefore, only limited conclusions can be made. The next step would involve a study with a larger number of participants. They will also aim to extend the trial to those with existing gum disease.

But overall, these findings are positive. If this saliva sample approach does get implemented, it would be a simple and low-cost way of screening for cardiovascular disease.

Thinking points…

[1] This research underlines the strong link between physical and oral health. With this in mind, it is important take excellent care of your oral health, as it can impact your physical health. One of the best ways of ensuring your oral health is strong is to attend regular dental check-ups. This will allow a dentist to take a look at your oral health and identify treatment options if necessary. We recommend booking an appointment now!

[2] The authors of the study suggested that this oral rinse could be used in check-ups at the family doctors, as well as the dentist. As oral health can be impacted by your physical health, it is also advisable to see a family doctor regularly. Moreover, if they reveal to you that you have physical health problems, be sure to tell your dentist, as this knowledge can help inform dental treatment.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

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

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

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

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

References

[1] Hong, K-Y., Ghafari, A., Mei, Y., Williams, J. S., Attia, D., Forsyth, J., Wang, K., Wyeld, T., Sun, C., Glogauer, M., & King, T. J. (2023). Oral inflammatory load predicts vascular function in a young adult population: a pilot study. Frontiers in Oral Health. 4. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/froh.2023.1233881.

[2] NHS. (2022). Cardiovascular disease. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cardiovascular-disease/. Last accessed: 26th August 2023.

[3] Frontiers. (2023). A simple mouth rinse could spot early heart disease risk. Available: https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/998709 Last accessed: 26th August 2023.

Can the Diabetes Medicine Metformin Help Treat Periodontitis?
21Aug
While the medicine Metformin is mainly used in the treatment of Diabetes, recent research has looked at its impact on Periodontitis. Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that impacts many people around the world. Treatment options are limited. But the use of metformin appeared to have a positive impact on periodontitis, with the suggestion that it could become a treatment option in the future.

Periodontitis is a debilitating condition to live with, and can also be exacerbated by numerous conditions, oxidative stress and bacterial changes. Given how easily periodontitis can be exacerbated, treating the condition early is crucial.

There are some treatment options currently. However, these all have limited effectiveness. But now, new research has looked into how the medication Metformin interacts with the numerous areas that can worsen periodontitis [1].

Background

This research was based on the condition Periodontitis, which is a severe form of gum disease. Gum disease is incredibly common, with over half of American adults having the condition [2].

Treatment for gum disease is limited, with scaling and root planing the most common treatments. These involve a dental professional using a special dental instrument to remove the build up of tartar below the gums and removing plaque from tooth surfaces.

The research also involved Metformin – which is a medicine used to predominantly treat Type 2 Diabetes [3]. Metformin works by lowing blood sugar levels and makes the body respond better to insulin.

The Research

The research was carried out by a team of researchers from Chongqing Medical University in China. Their findings were published in the Genes & Diseases journal [1].

The research team sought to find out how metformin would interact with certain cells. There was an interest in how periodontitis would progress when the metformin was introduced [1].

To find out, the research team induced a mouse with periodontitis. Then, metformin was introduced. Subsequently, the research team reviewed the progress of the condition over a period of time [1].

Interestingly, it was found that metformin had a positive impact in numerous areas. Overall, the progress of the rodent’s periodontitis stalled due to the metformin [1].

One benefit that the researchers found was that the metformin helped to reduce the breakdown of bones – known as alveolar bone resorption [1]. This extends to the periodontal tissues – making them more resilient against outside interferences like gum disease.

Another benefit included the metformin being capable of inhibiting oxidative stress [1]. This refers to an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body – which causes damage to the organs. Specifically, metformin was able to lessen oxidative stress levels in the periodontal tissues. Therefore, this was a very positive result.

The anti-inflammatory effects of metformin were also crucial towards lessening the problems from periodontitis [1]. With inflammation being a key element of periodontitis, this particular finding didn’t come as a surprise to the researchers.

What this means

The findings were very positive, with the researchers finding that metformin had a number of benefits in terms of treating periodontitis. The rodent responded positively, with the belief that humans would respond in the same way.

However, when commenting, the research team said that while their study presented “compelling evidence on the protective role of metformin in periodontitis, further research is needed” [4]. This is because this is a rather small study – and so it is difficult to make comprehensive conclusions.

But the researchers commented that they were “optimistic” that their findings will “pave the way for more comprehensive studies” on the relationship between metformin and the bigger picture of periodontitis [4]. Furthermore, they hope that this will ultimately lead “to more effective treatment options” [4].

Given that many people suffer from diabetes and periodontitis, there is hope that in the future, metformin could help patients with both conditions. Therefore, this could improve treatment outcomes for both conditions.

While further research is certainly needed before any conclusions can be made, the initial signs are positive. Metformin definitely appears to have a positive impact, with the chance that it could become a key drug in the treatment of periodontitis in the future.

Thinking points…

1) Gum disease is a very common condition to have. As discussed in the research above, metformin could potentially be used in the future in the treatment of gum disease. However, in the present day, treatment options do exist – with root planing and scaling two common options. If you do have gum disease, we recommend talking to your dentist about your treatment options at your next appointment!

2) Earlier in the article, it was mentioned how important it is for gum disease to be treated early on. The easiest way for gum disease to be detected is through dental check-ups. Therefore, remember to attend a dental clinic at least twice per year. If a dentist does spot signs of gum disease, then they can provide information to help you halt its development. We recommend booking a check-up right away!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental treatment options and advice aimed at improving their oral health.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. 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™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, all of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.

We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Sun, B., Ying, S., Ma, Q., Li, H., Li, J., & Song, J. (2023). Metformin ameliorates HMGB1-mediated oxidative stress through mTOR pathway in experimental periodontitis. Genes & Diseases. 10 (2): p542-553. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gendis.2021.06.003.

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2013). Periodontal Disease. Available: https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/periodontal-disease.html. Last accessed: 16th August 2023.

[3] NHS. (2022). About metformin. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/metformin/about-metformin/. Last accessed: 16th August 2023.

[4] Chongqing Medical University. (2023). New study explores the role of metformin in ameliorating oxidative stress in periodontitis. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-08-explores-role-metformin-ameliorating-oxidative.html. Last accessed: 16th August 2023.