Tag: dental care

New research has found that eating problems are common among the elderly, especially in those with a poor appetite and lack of teeth. The problems include swallowing, chewing and general appetite difficulties. These eating problems are linked to oral health. Therefore, this research shows again the importance of good oral health.

New research has looked into eating problems, which is very common among older adults. The study has analyzed eating problems among those aged 75 and older.

Eating problems are inherently linked to oral health. The study found that poor appetite, chewing problems, swallowing and denture-related eating difficulties were very common.

This study shows the importance of good oral health. By having strong oral health, it gives us a decreased chance of having eating problems in the future.

Background

The mouth plays a crucial part in our overall health. For example, disregarding our oral health can result in mouth problems like gum disease and cavities.

Then, the mouth is also important for chewing and swallowing. In turn, these are crucial areas for overall health. Without eating properly, our overall health will worsen.

To have a balanced diet, it is important to be able to eat, chew and swallow as intended. This all points towards the importance of general oral health.

The study

The research outlined above was part of the ongoing Nutrition, Oral Health and Medication study at the University of Eastern Finland. Subsequently, the findings were reported on in the journal Clinical and Experimental Dental Research [1].

The study involved 250 people aged 75 and older who resided in Eastern Finland. Finland is well-known for its high quality of life. For example, the organisation Social Progress Index, which measures quality of life across 160 countries, says Finland is the 2nd best country in the world to live [2]. Therefore, those partaking in this study come from a nation where health and life expectancy are strong.

The participants were interviewed by health professionals including a pharmacist, clinical nutritionist and a dental hygienist [2]. This allowed the authors to get a strong picture of the participants.

The researchers aimed to find out the extent and causes of eating problems. Eating problems were divided into four areas:

• Loss of appetite

• Chewing problems

• Swallowing problems

• Eating problems relating to teeth or dentures

What were the results?

There were some interesting findings. The findings were rather worrying, and shows that oral health is certainly an area which needs to be improved upon.

Nearly 30% of the participants reported having a poor appetite [1]. 20% of the participants had chewing problems. Furthermore, 14% had swallowing difficulties. Finally, almost 20% reported eating problems relating to teeth or dentures [1].

The researchers noted that nearly all of those with issues had a poor nutritional diet – according to the Clinical Nutritionist [1]. Moreover, they also had a decreased food intake compared to those without problems [1].

Those with no teeth had further problems. For instance, this group had a higher chance of chewing issues and general oral health problems [1].

Those with existing oral health problems were also likelier to report problems with chewing and swallowing [1]. Participants with toothache or denture issues were also likelier to report having eating problems [1].

It is also worth mentioning that the researchers found a clear link between taking multiple prescribed medications and oral health-related eating problems [1]. This may be linked to dry mouth – which is a common side effect of many medicines.

What this study shows

This study underlines the importance of oral health. It also shows that we should get into good oral health habits from a young age, as it will help us in the future. After all, we only get one set of teeth in adulthood!

Annina Salmi, one of the authors, discussed the findings [3]. Salmi said “in this study, loss of appetite was the most common finding, suggesting that eating problems are multifaceted” [3].

Looking to the future, Salmi said that “it is important for older people to maintain good oral health because it affects eating” [3].

Thinking points…

1) It is so important to get into good oral health habits during adulthood to aid your mouth’s health in your later years. Therefore, it is crucial to brush your teeth regularly and try to avoid sugary food and drink. Most importantly, it is vital that you attend a dental clinic at least twice a year for a check-up. Any problems can be identified and treated early – resulting in an enhanced chance of treatment success. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) This study mentions the impact that our diet has on both our oral and overall health. Take a moment to think about your diet – is it nutritious? It may be worth speaking to a dentist about your diet, as they can discuss any actions that may be harming your teeth. A regular check-up would be a good starting point for this. Why not book one now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary Dental Clinic that provide their patients with advice, a comfortable experience and treatment to improve oral health where needed.

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.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on your 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] Salmi, A., Komulainen, K., Nihtila, A., Tihonen, M., Nykanen, I., Hartikainen, S., & Suominen, A. L. (2022). Eating problems among old home care clients. Clinical and Experimental Dental Research. (Pre-publication release). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/cre2.585.

[2] Social Progress Index. (2021). 2021 Social Progress Index Map: Finland. Available: https://www.socialprogress.org/?tab=2&code=FIN. Last accessed: 4th June 2022.

[3] University of Eastern Finland. (2022). Eating problems are common among older home care clients. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-06-problems-common-older-home-clients.html. Last accessed: 4th June 2022.

The 2022 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report has been released, with the findings suggesting Americans are caring more about their oral health, and recognizing its importance. Visits to dentists have risen, and most children have had improved access to dentistry. However, there is a lack of knowledge of the link between oral health and physical health, which has caused some concern.

Delta Dental have released the 2022 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report. The yearly report presents a nationwide view of the opinions and behaviours relating to oral health.

The findings were mainly positive. For example, most respondents were clearly aware of the importance of oral health. Moreover, more routine dentistry appointments were attended. Furthermore, there were less oral health issues for children [1].

However, there is a degree of concern over the lack of knowledge that most had in terms of of the link between physical and oral health [1]. This is an area that healthcare professionals hope will improve in the next year.

About the report

This annual report has become a very useful way of reviewing the overall state of oral health in the United States. It is commissioned by Delta Dental – the largest dental insurance provider in the US, with 83million Americans insured with them [1].

The research was conducted between the 19th and 28th of January by Material – a global insights and strategy consultancy [1]. The research involved American adults and parents of children aged 12 and younger.

Overall, they received responses to surveys from 1,027 Americans aged 19 and over. Additionally, there were 1,172 participants that were parents of children aged 12 and younger [1].

The report asked the respondents a range of questions which allowed them to self-assess their oral health and general oral hygiene [1]. The responses were then collated and analysed.

The Key Positive Findings

The conclusions drawn from the report were largely positive. The most promising finding was that 92% of adults and 96% of parents consider their oral health to be “very or extremely important” to their overall health [1].

Another pleasing aspect was the number of people attending the dentist. 89% of children attended the dentist in 2021, along with 72% of adults [1]. Both have risen when compared to 2020. 94% of adults in the survey signalled their intention to visit the dentist this year [1].

Much fewer parents reported that their children had experienced oral health issues throughout the year, when compared to recent years [1]. The researchers noted that this correlated with the finding that 92% of children visited the dentist for preventive reasons, rather than purely reactive reasons – up from 81% in 2020 [1].

The scale of the impact of Covid-19 on oral health continues to be realised. 55% of adults believe that Covid-19 has resulted in them making their oral health more of a priority [1].

Moreover, 63% of adults report paying closer attention to their oral habits due to Covid-19 [1]. Similarly, 74% of parents report paying closer attention to their children’s oral habits due to Covid-19 [1].

With more parents paying attention to the oral health of their children since Covid-19, it is unsurprising to see that many parents are worried about how oral health issues could affect their children. 70% of parents reported being concerned that poor oral health would have a poor impact on their child’s overall confidence [1].

The Key Negative Findings

However, despite the positives, there were some negatives. The researchers asked those who did not attend the dentist what the main barrier to dental care was. Unsurprisingly, the biggest issue was not being able to afford the cost of treatment [1].

Other barriers to oral healthcare also existed. For instance, other common barriers included lack of dental insurance, not wanting to visit a dental clinic during Covid-19 and having a fear of the dentist [1].

The main concern though of the researchers was how there was limited knowledge of the link between oral health and physical health [1]. This is an area that the researchers aim to address in the year ahead.

Many respondents did not realize that some medical conditions are linked to poor oral health. Only 38% of respondents knew about the link between oral health and strokes, with 37% knowing about the link with high blood pressure, and 36% being aware of the diabetes link [1].

As mentioned, this shows that there is room for improvement. But the researchers were pleased to report that 90% of adults said that they were interested in learning about oral health’s critical connection to overall health [1].

What this means

The findings are mainly positive, and compared to the last report, Americans do seem to be taking their oral health more seriously. Of course, with routine dentistry having been suspended due to Covid-19, it is natural that accessing dental services is easier now.

But the findings do show that there is room for improvement in terms of increasing awareness of the impact of oral health on physical health, and vice versa.

James W. Hutchison is the President & CEO of the Delta Dental Plans Association. He commented on the findings of the report [2]. He said that while most “understand that oral health is critically important to overall health”, many “don’t fully realize the ways oral health is linked to serious health issues” [2].

Hutchison stated that “unfortunately, this lack of understanding isn’t surprising, as people often think of the mouth and body as two distinct parts” [2]. He went on to say that his organisation aims “to partner with the public on their journey to better health”, which they aim to achieve by elevating “awareness of the essential role of oral health” [2].

It is now a case of waiting to see what progress is made over the next year in terms of overall oral health. It certainly seems that things are moving in the right direction, but that there is room for improvement.

Thinking points…

1) It is positive to see that Americans are aware of the importance of oral health. One of the most important parts of oral health is a simple check-up. A check-up allows a dentist to provide an overall summary of a patient’s oral health, and provide advice and guidance. If any problems are found, they can be acted on and treated. We recommend attending a check-up at least twice a year – why not book now!

2) If you stop and think about your oral health and hygiene – how would you answer the questions discussed in this article? Consider taking on board some of the key findings of this report – such as the link between oral and physical health. If you need some information, help or advice with your oral health, consider speaking with your dentist about this – they’ll be happy to help!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides advice, comfortable experience and treatment to improve the oral health of its patients, where needed.

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.

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a regular dental check-up. When problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals.

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Many people find that these treatments have a positive impact on your 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. (2022). The 2022 State of America’s Oral Health and Wellness Report. Available: https://www.deltadental.com/content/dam/ddpa/us/en/press-releases/DDPA_State%20of%20Oral%20Health%20Report_2022-Release.pdf. Last accessed: 13th May 2022.

[2] Delta Dental Plans Association. (2022). New Delta Dental report finds many are unaware of connection between poor oral health and serious medical conditions (but 9 in 10 want to learn more). Available: https://www.wfmz.com/news/pr_newswire/pr_newswire_health/new-delta-dental-report-finds-many-are-unaware-of-connection-between-poor-oral-health-and/article_e307ea8e-e7fa-5dd2-997d-669baa5e37eb.html. Last accessed: 13th May 2022.

Receding gums is a very common condition that many people have. The condition involves the gums pulling away from the teeth, leaving the roots of teeth exposed. This can cause several oral health problems. Unfortunately, receding gums will not grow back. However, there are many treatments available.

In an ideal world, we would all have gums that fit perfectly around our teeth. This is what healthy gums look like, and what we all strive to have.

However, for most people, this is not a reality. Many people have receding gums, which is where the gum effectively becomes detached from the teeth. Sadly, receding gums will not grow back. But treatments are available.

There are also a range of measures we can all take to help prevent receding gums in the future. These measures can help manage receding gums, and associated gum issues like gum disease.

What are receding gums?

Receding gums – also known as gum recession or gingival recession – occurs when the gums pull away from the teeth [1].

It is a very common condition. In fact, approximately 50% of people in the United States are believed to have a form of gum recession [2].

Receding gums is often associated with Gum disease. Gum disease in its most severe form is called periodontitis. In this scenario, the gum and tissues completely pull apart from one another, causing a pocket of space to be created which attracts even more bacteria [1].

If gums recede too much, it could eventually result in bone loss, which often results in a tooth needing to be extracted [3].

What causes receding gums?

There are a range of possible causes and risk factors of gum recession. It is most commonly associated with poor oral hygiene, such as not brushing teeth enough. However, there are a range of other potential factors:

• Too forceful brushing: If you do brush, you still need to get your technique correct. If you are brushing too rapidly or forcefully, it can put strain on the gums, causing them to recede.

• Teeth grinding: When people involuntarily or voluntarily grind their teeth, it puts significant pressure on the gums, causing them to recede over time. Furthermore, grinding can also cause teeth to become looser, which could allow bacteria to penetrate new areas, which can cause further problems [1].

• Age: Interestingly, research has actually found that as a person ages, the gums naturally recess [4]. This means that as we age, we get more vulnerable to receding gums.

• Gum disease: Gum disease affects millions of people. The periodontium is the name of the structure that surrounds each tooth – it includes the gums, the bone, tissue and ligaments [1]. But when any of the above gets damaged, it can cause problems – with gum recession a common consequence.

Moreover, other risk factors include poorly fitted fillings, smoking, medications that cause dry mouth, injury or trauma to the area and poor diet [1].

What treatments are available for receding gums?

Receding gums usually worsen over time. Unfortunately, they won’t regrow. But there are some potential treatments. The exact treatment will usually depend on what has caused the recession [1].

• Scaling and Root planing: One of the most effective treatments for receding gums is called scaling and root planing. This is a form of deep cleaning that involves the removal of dental plaque. After this, the roots that have been left exposed by gum recession are smoothed, whilst removing bacteria and other toxins [1].

• Gum graft: In cases of severe gum recession, it may be advisable for gum graft surgery to be used. This is where a surgeon takes a small piece of gum tissue from elsewhere in the mouth and then uses it to cover the exposed tooth roots. This helps to protect the roots [1].

How to prevent receding gums?

Preventing gum recession is possible. Even if your gums have started to recede, you can act to stop the recession from worsening.

• Regular dental check-ups: The easiest way to prevent receding gums is to attend regular dental check-ups. At a check-up, your dentist will be able to provide advice and guidance on how to maintain your oral health. They will also be able to check for any issues, including gum-related problems. Moreover, if treatment is required, they can help with this.

• Effective brushing technique: It is important to brush your teeth safely and effectively. Brushing your teeth gently with small circular motions is highly effective. Remember as well to brush every surface of each tooth, and to gently brush the gums.

The above areas are crucial for all of our oral health needs. But by following those areas, it should keep our dental health strong.

Thinking points…

1) The easiest way to prevent gum recession – and all other oral health problems for that matter – is attending regular check-ups. Any issues will be able to be spotted at a check-up, and recommendations made. If treatment is needed, then the earlier that this is done, the better the chance of success. Therefore, we recommend booking a check-up soon!

2) The article above mentions gum disease. Gum disease is a very common condition that affects so many of us. It is therefore useful to know about the scaling and root planing treatment that is explained above. If you are suffering with gum disease, discuss with your dentist the merits of that treatment – it could result in significantly improved oral health! At your next check-up, talk to your dentist about it!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

We are also pleased to offer some cosmetic services. Here at our Calgary dental clinic, we offer treatments like tooth whitening, Invisalign™ and dental implants.

It is important for 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.

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://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Lillis, C., & Wright, S. A. (2022). Can receding gums grow back? What to know. Available: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326022. Last accessed: 23rd April.

[2] Healthy Smiles Dentistry. (2021). Tips for Gum Recession Prevention. Available: https://www.healthysmilesgeorgetown.com/blog/tips-gum-recession-prevention/. Last accessed: 23rd April 2022.

[3] Gasner, N. S., & Schure, R. S. (2021). Periodontal Disease. Available: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554590/. Last accessed: 22nd April 2022.

[4] Georgieva, I. (2019). Etiology of gingival recessions – a literature review. Scripta Scientifica Medicinae Dentalis. 5 (2): p7-12.