Home Tag: "dental care" (Page 18)

Tag: dental care

What Impact Do Sugary Foods Have on the Bacteria in Our Mouths?
11Apr
Research has shown that certain foods result in types of bacteria in our mouths that are known to contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. These foods are those with a high sugar and high glycemic level. Moreover, as well as impacting oral health, they also impact our physical health. The results of this research reaffirm the importance of eating healthily and having excellent oral hygiene.

Recent research has looked into the impact that the foods we eat have on the bacteria in our mouths. The collective group of bacterium in our mouths is called the oral microbiome.

Moreover, the research has then considered how the oral microbiome affects our overall health. This includes both oral health and our wider physical health.

The study focused on the impact that sugary foods have. It is already known that such foods are linked to tooth decay. However, the researchers sought to investigate in further detail.

Background

Bacteria inevitably gets into our mouths. Every time we eat, chew, drink or even bite a nail, bacteria enters. In fact, over 700 types of bacteria have been identified in the oral cavity, with humans typically having over 50 types in their mouths at any one time [1].

But not all bacteria is necessarily bad. However, many types of bacteria can be damaging, and are often linked to tooth decay and gum disease.

It is already known that bacteria can also have some physical health consequences. For example, a recent study found that some types of oral bacteria can be linked to hypertension problems in later life [2].

The research focuses on sugary foods and high glycemic foods. The Glycemic index is a system that shows the rates that different foods are broken down in the body [3].

Foods that are high in the glycemic index cause a rapid increase in blood sugar. Therefore, these foods can be considered unhealthy. For example, high glycemic foods include sweets, doughnuts, soft drinks, baked goods and white bread among others [3].

The research

The research was conducted by scientists from the University at Buffalo. Subsequently, their findings were published in the Scientific Reports journal [4].

The researchers sought to investigate whether carbohydrates and sugar were associated with certain oral bacteria. They used a sample of 1,204 women. The data used came courtesy of the Women’s Health Initiative [4].

Samples from the women were taken. These samples were taken from subgingival plaque – which is bacteria that occurs under the gums. This is important, as this is the bacteria that isn’t visible, and is often neglected [4].

Most studies use saliva as a sample. But by using subgingival plaque, the researchers would get a clearer picture of what was causing gum issues [4].

The researchers also analyzed eating habits, and then cross-referenced these habits with the types of bacteria found in the samples. Therefore, this allowed the researchers to get an overall picture of the impact that certain foods had.

The results showed that a higher intake of sugary and high glycemic foods appears to influence oral health. Furthermore, the authors also suggested that these foods appear to have a long-term impact on health outcomes in older women [4].

Overall, the researchers concluded that a bacteria named Strteptoccus mutans – which is known to contribute to tooth decay and cardiovascular disease – was present strongly in those with poor diets [4].

Moreover, the researchers also found a type of bacteria called leptotrichia, which has been associated with gingivitis – a form of gum disease – in the past [4].

Other types of bacteria that hadn’t previously been thought to contribute to oral health problems were also found. However, the researchers suggested these types of bacteria may now need further research [4].

What this means

The researchers were able to show how eating certain types of food impacted the oral microbiome. There are clearly consequences for oral health and overall physical health.

Therefore, these results emphasize the importance of having excellent oral hygiene and trying to eat healthily wherever possible. After all, we all want to avoid harmful bacteria in our mouth.

Amy Millen, Associate Professor at the University at Buffalo’s School of Public Health and Health Professions, commented on the findings of the team [5]. Millen said that the researchers placed specific emphasis on glycemic foods, as this was “not well studied in relation to the oral microbiome” [5].

Millen also said that “as more studies are conducted looking at the oral microbiome”, that the researchers could infer more “about how diet relates to the oral microbiome and periodontal disease” [5]. Such findings can be very helpful in trying to help improve oral health.

Thinking points…

1) The research above shows the potential damage of sugary foods and high glycemic foods. Now take a look at your diet – do you consume foods like this? If so, try and cut down wherever possible! Because of the damage it can do, it places emphasis on the need to attend regular check-ups at your dentist. Therefore, we recommend that you book an appointment now!

2) Remember that oral health problems are avoidable. It is important to have excellent oral hygiene. Part of this is to ensure that you attend your dental clinic for a check-up at least twice a year. Then if you do have any problems, they can be easily addressed and acted upon. Consider attending your dentist soon, as this is the best way of caring for your oral health.

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 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.

The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.

Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dentala 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] Paster, B. J., Olsen, I., Aas, J. A. & Dewhirst, F. E. (2000). The breadth of bacterial diversity in the human periodontal pocket and other oral sites. Periodontology. 2006 (42): p80–87. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0757.2006.00174.x.

[2] LaMonte, M. J., Gordon, J. H., Diaz-Moreno, P., Andrews, C. A., Shimbo, D., Hovey, K. M., Buck, M. J., & Wactawski-Wende, J. (2022). Oral Microbiome Is Associated With Incident Hypertension Among Postmenopausal Women. Journal of the American Heart Association. 11 (6): e021930. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1161/JAHA.121.021930.

[3] NHS. (2018). What is the glycaemic index (GI)?. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/food-and-diet/what-is-the-glycaemic-index-gi/. Last accessed: 10th April 2022.

[4] Millen, A. E., Dahhan, R., Freudenheim, J. L., Hovey, K. M., Li, L., McSkimming, D. I., Andrews, C. A., Buck, M. J., LaMonte, M. J., Kirkwood, K. L., Sun, Y., Murugaiyan, V., Tsompana, M., & Wactawski-Wende, J. (2022). Dietary carbohydrate intake is associated with the subgingival plaque oral microbiome abundance and diversity in a cohort of postmenopausal women. Scientific Reports. 12 (2643). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-06421-2.

[5] Hill, D. J. (2022). Carbs, sugary foods may influence poor oral health, study finds. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-04-carbs-sugary-foods-poor-oral.html. Last accessed: 10th April 2022.

Could We Have Drill-Free Fillings in the Future?
14Mar
Fear of the dentist is a common issue that many face. One of the main fears revolves around the dental drill, which is used for cavity fillings. However, new research will be looking into the possibility of drill-free fillings in the future. This research is exciting, and could yield improvements in the number of patients willingly getting dental fillings.

Being afraid or anxious of the dentist is a very common issue that many people have. One of the main issues is the dental drill, which is used throughout multiple procedures.

Most people will have at least one cavity filling in their lifetime. For some, they will have multiple, and potentially even a root canal. Throughout all of these, the dental drill is widely-used.

However, upcoming research will be looking into the idea that cavity filling procedures in the future may not need to involve a drill. This could revolutionize dentistry, and lead to a vast decrease in dental fear.

Fear of the dentist

Dental fear is extremely common. A study in the United Kingdom found that 48% of people describe themselves as either moderately or extremely “dentally anxious” [1].

Studies show that those who fear the dentist typically visit less often, only go when pain forces them and generally have worse oral health in their lifetime than those who do not fear the dentist [2].

Aside from pain, many fear the dental drill. The dental drill is used by dentists throughout procedures like cavity fillings and root canals. It causes discomfort for many.

As a result of dental fear, searching for ways to ease the fears of patients is crucial. Now, an effort into coming up with a method of a drill-free filling technique is set to commence.

The upcoming research

Hetal Desai is a PhD student at the University of Toronto. She will be undertaking a research project that is looking at the possibility of repairing cavities without using a drill [3].

Desai has come up with a potential method of doing this. A key part of the research will involve a thin resin (the material used in fillings) that has antimicrobial properties [3].

Many types of resins are already available. For example, composite resins are used in dental fillings. When applied to the surface of a tooth, resin can act as a barrier to prevent further damage to the area [3].

However, resins don’t typically have antimicrobial properties. Therefore, Desai has identified this as a potential area of improvement going forward.

Desai has suggested that drug-loaded nanoparticles could be used to bestow antimicrobial properties into the resin. The nanoparticles would be designed to gradually release over time, helping to maintain the antimicrobial effect [3].

The aim is to stop further decaying of the tooth – as a regular filling would. Therefore, Desai is hoping to simulate the effects of a filling with a specially designed resin.

Hopes for the research

Desai is tackling a big issue. While in theory Desai’s ideas sound realistic, in practice, it may not. But Desai will get backing from mentors at the University of Toronto.

Desai commented on her research [3]. She said that the resin “will penetrate the tooth and form a barrier that will protect the tooth from being demineralized” by acids [3].

Additionally, she went on to say that “the drug from the nanoparticles incorporated within the resin will eliminate the bacteria and protect the tooth from the bacteria and bacterial enzymes” [3].

Desai is hoping that her research will help those who feel anxious about dental appointments. She said that she believes the research would result in “a more positive experience for patients”.

There is certainly hope that this research could produce positive results. Desai hasn’t yet discussed her methodology. However, if the research goes well, then it could be an enormous boost to oral health.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Dental fear is an incredibly common issue that many face. But do not feel alarmed, as this is a normal emotion that dentists are trained to deal with. For example, here at Savanna Dental, we always ensure that our patients are well-informed and comfortable throughout their experience. For more information on how we can help, we recommend booking an appointment with us!
  • 2) For the foreseeable future, the dental drill will be at the forefront of treatment. But this shouldn’t put anyone off. Remember that dental problems should be treated as soon as possible. By avoiding getting treatment for tooth problems, they will only get worse. It is important to see your dentist at least once every six months. If you haven’t seen your dentist recently, we recommend attending your local clinic soon!

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 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.

The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.

Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.

We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

  • [1] National Health Service. (2009). Adult Dental Health Survey 2009 – First Release. Available: https://files.digital.nhs.uk/publicationimport/pub01xxx/pub01061/adul-dent-heal-surv-firs-rele-2009-rep.pdf. Last accessed: 11th March 2022.
  • [2] Armfield, J. M., Stewart, J. F., & Spencer, A. J. (2007). The vicious cycle of dental fear: exploring the interplay between oral health, service utilization and dental fear. BMC Oral Health. 7 (1). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6831-7-1.
  • [3] University of Toronto. (2022). Drill-free fillings? Researcher says antimicrobial resin could lead to ‘more positive’ patient experience. Available: https://www.utoronto.ca/news/drill-free-fillings-researcher-says-antimicrobial-resin-could-lead-more-positive-patient. Last accessed: 11th March 2022.
Is Tooth Grinding and Sleep Bruxism Linked to a Range of Jaw Disorders? - Savanna Dental
7Mar
Teeth grinding while asleep and the clenching of the jaws is known as sleep bruxism. Bruxism causes a range of both physical and dental issues. Now, researchers have looked to make a conclusion on the debate of whether or not sleep bruxism is associated with temporomandibular joint disorders – a cluster of conditions that cause a range of jaw issues. In conclusion, the researchers found a positive association.

When we sleep, we all hope for a calm rest to give our bodies a chance to recuperate. While many of us achieve this, a sizeable amount of the population do not.

One such issue that many face is the involuntary grinding of teeth while asleep. This is also associated with the clenching of the upper and lower jaw. These actions are part of a condition known as sleep bruxism.

There has been continued debate as to whether or not sleep bruxism is linked to Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TJMs). These disorders cause intense jaw pain and can cause a range of dental problems.

Now, researchers have sought to understand the connection and find out whether or not sleep bruxism can be linked to TJMs.

What is Sleep Bruxism?

Sleep bruxism refers to when a person grinds their teeth while asleep. It usually includes the clenching of the jaws as well.

Statistics show that approximately 15% of the population suffer from sleep bruxism [1]. An even larger amount will have regular bruxism, which is tooth grinding during the day.

Teeth grinding can wear away tooth enamel due to the strong pressure on tooth surfaces. This makes teeth more vulnerable to decay and caries.

In fact, those with sleep bruxism typically have worse oral health in their lifetime [2]. Sleep bruxism also causes physical issues like jaw pain and even headaches.

Meanwhile, the Temporomandibular joint connects the jawbone to the skull. Any disorder that affects this region is considered to be a TMJ [3]. TMJs can cause jaw pain and muscle problems.

The Research

The intention of this research was to find out if there was indeed a connection between sleep bruxism and TMJs. The aim was to make a conclusion on what has proven to be a controversial subject [4].

The research was completed at the University Clinic of Dentistry at the Medical University of Vienna [5]. The findings were published in the Journal of Advanced Research [5].

The researchers entered the study with the theory that specific combinations of tooth shape and tooth location during grinding affects the mechanical load on the temporomandibular joint [5]. Therefore, sleep bruxism could be considered a risk factor for TMJs.

The study used a computer model of the masticatory region – an area that includes the bones and muscles of the head and neck. These models are used in cases where human experiments would be deemed highly unethical.

The researchers tested out various tooth movements and angles using the model [5]. The study analysed the effects of grinding on the first molar and a canine with different inclinations and angles used.

The researchers found that there was an association between bruxism and TMJs [5]. However, it was found that certain tooth shapes and locations were particularly associated with the development of TMJs [5].

What this means

The findings of the study show that there does seem to be a connection between bruxism and TMJs. This is especially pronounced in certain cases where teeth are at a certain angle or inclination during grinding.

Benedikt Sagl of the University of Vienna was among the researchers. Sagl commented on the findings [1]. Sagl suggested that “the decisive factor” was the “steepness” of grinding. For instance, “the flatter the tooth, the higher the risk of a TMJ disorder” [1].

Sagl suggested that more research will be needed to confirm their findings. It was suggested that further research will be used to “establish whether this finding can be incorporated into the development of therapeutic interventions for sleep bruxism” [1].

Thinking points…

  • 1) Bruxism does affect many people. Sometimes, people will grind their teeth out of habit, which is very damaging! It is worth checking to see if you do suffer from bruxism. This is something that can be diagnosed by a dentist. Treatments typically include a mouth guard.
  • 2) The research above is an example of how one seemingly-minor thing can have a big effect on our dental health. Therefore, it is very important that you take good care of your teeth! As part of this, it is vital that you visit the dentist for a regular check-up, where any problems can be identified. Consider booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

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

Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! These treatments can have a positive impact on your appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

Importantly, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is helpful.

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

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

References

What Effect Does Vaping Have on Gum Disease and Our Oral Health?
28Feb
Researchers have looked extensively at the impact that vaping and e-cigarettes have on gum disease. While smoking has been researched a lot in recent decades, e-cigarettes are relatively new. But the findings of this study found that e-cigarettes are very damaging, and can hasten gum disease. Therefore, e-cigarettes are bad for oral health and shouldn’t be seen as a “healthy” alternative to smoking.

Recent research from a team at the New York University College of Dentistry has found that e-cigarettes cause many problems for oral health, including gum disease [1].

The researchers found that e-cigarette users have a unique microbiome – made up of bacteria – when compared to non-smokers [1]. However, e-cigarette users did have better results than cigarette smokers [1].

This research shows that any form of smoking can be a big issue with oral health. Both hasten the development of gum disease, which can cause significant problems in the long-term.

The rise of vaping

E-cigarette use is termed “vaping”. E-cigarettes work by vaporizing nicotine and other chemicals. They are considered to be healthier than traditional cigarettes, but there is a lack of research to support this.

Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially with younger people. In fact, a 2020 study by the World Health Organization found that many countries now actually have more e-cigarette users than cigarette smokers [2].

The same study referred to e-cigarettes as a “public health concern” [2]. E-cigarettes expose the user to toxic substances that can cause cancer, cardiovascular disease and lung conditions [2].

Vaping and oral health

However, there has been limited research into how vaping effects oral health. It is already known that the bacteria caused by vaping makes a person’s mouth at risk of inflammation and infection [3].

It is known that smoking traditional cigarettes can cause gum disease. But the researchers were looking to see the effects that vaping has on oral health, including in terms of gum disease.

The research

The study was published in the journal Clinical Microbiology [1]. The researchers studied the oral health of 84 adults that were divided into three groups.

The three groups were cigarette smokers, e-cigarette users and people who have never smoked. At the start of the study, all 84 adults had a degree of gum disease [1].

The researchers then planned on assessing the gum health of the 84 participants at two dental exams, six months apart [1]. This would allow them to see the effect that use of e-cigarettes have on gum disease.

Gum disease was measured by the health of the gum ligament and the distance between the separation of tissue and a tooth’s surface [1]. This separation leads to the gum receding and “pockets” to be formed. These pockets are havens for bacteria and worsens gum disease [1].

After six months, the researchers studied the oral health of the participants. They found that gum disease had worsened for the majority of participants in the study [1]. However, e-cigarette users were affected badly, and much more than non-smokers [1]. Those smoking cigarettes were the worst affected [1].

The researchers analyzed the types of bacteria in plaque samples of each group. They concluded that e-cigarette users had several types of damaging bacteria. This created a unique microbiome for e-cigarette users [1].

Fusobacterium and Bacteroidales are types of bacteria that were found in large amounts in e-cigarette users [1], These types of bacteria are known to be associated with gum disease [1].

Furthermore, a separate study also looked at the 84 participants, albeit with a focus on how e-cigarettes effect periodontal disease. This study concluded that periodontal disease had worsened for e-cigarette users in the study [4].

What this means

These findings are very worrying. They show that e-cigarettes maybe a slightly healthier form of smoking, but that there are many health implications for their use. This research shows that this includes oral health consequences.

The researchers were able to conclude that the oral microbiome of e-cigarette users has many negative consequences. This includes gum disease and altered immune responses [1].

Fangxi Xu, one of the authors of the research, commented on the findings [5]. Xu said that vaping seemed to be “driving unique patterns in bacteria and influencing the growth of same bacteria in a manner akin to cigarette smoking, but with its own profile and risks to oral health” [5].

It is likely that over the next few years, further research will be done in this subject area. But for now, the evidence clearly suggests that vaping has dire consequences for oral health.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Do you vape? Or maybe you know someone that does? This research shows the harm that vaping can do to your oral health. Also, it has a range of physical health consequences too. Try and quit vaping as soon as you can, remember there is plenty of support available!
  • 2) This research talks about the impact of gum disease. It is important to attend regular check-ups so that the overall health of your oral health can be assessed by a dental professional. Consider booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

It is important for dental problems to be addressed early. Any oral-based problems will be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem getting worse. If and when further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan.

The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.

Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.

We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadental.ca.

References

How Does the Oral Health of Children With Heart Conditions Compare to Those Without? - Savanna Dental
21Feb
Recent research has found that children with heart conditions appear to have worse oral health and teeth compared to those without heart conditions. Heart conditions already cause many problems. But this research shows that those with heart conditions should take added care with their oral health.

Recent research has found that children with heart conditions typically have worse oral health and teeth when compared to the general population.

These findings add to the issues facing those with heart conditions. However, it also provides the chance to highlight the importance of dental hygiene to those with heart conditions.

Background

Heart conditions affect approximately 900,000 children in the United States [1]. Several different conditions would be classed as a heart condition. For example, these include congenital heart disease, coronary heart disease, angina and arrhythmia.

Heart conditions cause many health problems, and many with heart conditions unfortunately die prematurely. But it is also apparent that there is a strong connection between heart conditions and oral health.

Children with heart conditions are at an increased risk of infection in the bloodstream from oral bacteria [2]. Therefore, dental care is very important for this population.

One study into children with congenital heart disease found very high rates of cavities and plaque levels for those with heart conditions [3].

Poor oral health as a child can result in lifelong dental issues. For example, pain, self-esteem problems and physical health ailments are all likely consequences.

The research

The research was published in the February 2022 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report [4].

The research used data from the 2016 to 2019 National Survey of Children’s Health [4]. This survey involved parents reporting on the oral health of their children in terms of toothache, bleeding gums and decayed teeth [4]. Furthermore, they also reported on if their child had received dental care in the last 12 months.

Almost 120,000 children were involved in the data [4]. 2,928 of them had a heart condition, with 116,826 not having a heart condition [4].

Researchers found that 83% of those with a heart condition had required dental care in the previous year. This compared to a rate of 80% for those without heart conditions [4].

In terms of the condition of teeth, there were similar findings. 9.9% of children with heart conditions were considered to have teeth in poor condition [4]. However, just 5.3% of children without heart conditions had teeth in poor condition [4].

What this means

These findings led to the researchers concluding that there is a noticeable deficit in the oral health of those with heart conditions. It certainly means that those with heart conditions should take extra care with their dental health. For example, this should include regular check-ups, accurate toothbrushing, flossing and other preventive measures recommended by a dentist.

Karrie F. Downing – lead researcher – commented on the findings. She said that the findings “could guide strategies, such as parent and patient education and collaboration between pediatricians, dentists, and cardiologists, to improve oral health and care among children with heart conditions” [5].

Downing also highlighted that this would be especially important for those with “intellectual or developmental disabilities”, which often run in tandem with heart conditions [5].

Thinking points…

  • 1) While the findings above suggest that oral health for those with heart conditions is worse, the statistics are still somewhat alarming for the general population. Therefore, it is important that we all have excellent oral hygiene and take care of our mouths. The best way to see the overall health of your mouth is to visit a dentist for a check-up.
  • 2) Have you got a child? Whether they have a heart condition or not, it is important for them to get into good dental habits for life. Therefore, remember to assist them in brushing, take them to regular check-ups and remind them of the importance of oral health to their overall health.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

It is important for dental problems to be addressed early. Any oral-based problems will be identified at check-ups. This helps to prevent the problem getting worse. If and when further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan.

The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.

Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.

We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadental.ca.

References

Should Oral Healthcare Be a Part of Canada’s Long-term Care Home Proposals? - Savanna Dental
7Feb
A new survey has shown that almost all Canadians believe that oral healthcare should be an important part of the new national standards for long-term care. The new standards have been planned for a long time. Most Canadians also believe the current state of oral care for older adults and seniors is unsatisfactory. The findings of the survey suggests that oral healthcare should be a priority for older adults.

A national survey undertaken by Abacus Data for the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) has shown almost all Canadians believe that oral healthcare should be included as part of the new national standards for long-term care.

Interestingly, most Canadians are also of the opinion that the current state of oral healthcare for older adults and seniors are poor. Based on the results of the survey, the CDHA have made a range of recommendations.

This survey comes at an important time. Because the new and long-awaited national standards for long-term care have been released in draft format, the results of this survey show public opinion. This could result in changes being made by authorities.

What are the new national standards for long-term care homes?

The national standards for long-term care were first set out in 2014 [1]. These standards are set by the Canadian federal government. They aim to improve Canada’s long-term care facilities.

Plans for a revision to the original standards started in March 2021 [1]. The new proposals were somewhat instigated by Covid-19. Long-term care facilities, typically for older adults and seniors, have been hit hard by Covid-19. There are over 400,000 Canadian residents in such homes.

Of the first 30,000 deaths in Canada from Covid-19, over half of them occurred in long-term care and retirement homes [1]. Therefore, it was clear that those who reside in these homes need assistance.

Elder citizens are at a higher risk of inflammation, oral bacteria and gum disease [2]. Therefore, this makes oral healthcare being a priority for this age range. Many have argued oral healthcare must form part of the new standards.

The survey

Abacus Data carried out a survey on 2,200 Canadian residents between January 7 and January 12 [3]. Their sample was carefully chosen. The sample reflected Canada’s population in terms of age, gender, education and region [3]. Therefore, this helped to ensure their results would offer a reliable overall picture.

The survey asked the participants a range of questions about their opinions on the current state of oral healthcare for those in long-term care. Moreover, they were also asked for their opinions on the new standards, and whether or not oral healthcare should be included [3].

When asked about the current state of oral health services in long-term care, 47% of respondents said that these services are “non-existent or minimal” [3]. Just 7% of respondents said they were “excellent or good” [3].

Over 50% of respondents agreed that seniors face many challenges in accessing professional oral healthcare [3]. Such challenges include financial problems, lack of support and mobility problems. Moreover, another challenge was poor education and awareness for the importance of oral health and how it affects overall health [3].

Then, 88% of respondents said that they wanted to see oral healthcare integrated into the national standards [3]. As a result, these findings show the dire public opinion of oral healthcare for seniors. Therefore, it is clear that an overwhelming part of the public wants changes to be made.

CDHA Recommendations

The CHDA, which is made up of over 20,000 dental professionals in Canada, have put forward some recommendations based on the results of the survey. These recommendations were announced as part of a recent report that the CDHA released [4].

The CDHA stated that their report had the intention of “increasing awareness of the connection between oral and overall health” [4]. Moreover, they also wanted to present the evidence of the importance of including oral healthcare in the new national standards.

They made five recommendations [4]:

  • The importance of integrating professional dental staff with long-term care homes as part of a “comprehensive program of oral health services” to meet the dental needs of residents.
  • Provide regular oral healthcare services for long-term care home residents. This includes assessments, personalized treatment plans and treatment where needed.
  • All staff members of long-term care homes should receive education on the importance of oral health. This education should be developed and then delivered by dental hygienists.
  • Implementation of new legislation to ensure that there are minimum standards for oral healthcare for long-term care homes.
  • The creation of accreditation standards specific to oral health services in long-term care homes. This would make oral healthcare a priority for care homes./li>

The CDHA believe that the above recommendations can lead to an improvement in oral healthcare for older adults and seniors. As a result, it could result in an improved quality of life.

What this means

Because of the survey’s results and subsequent recommendations, it is clear that there are significant improvements that can be made to oral healthcare in long-term care homes. As a result, the oral health of older adults and seniors should improve.

The CDHA President Wendy Stewart has spoken about the recommendations and overall state of oral healthcare in Canada [5]. Stewart mentioned that “pain, discomfort, difficulties chewing and swallowing” are all consequences of untreated oral conditions [5].

She went on to say that the oral health needs of the “vulnerable population” of long-term care home residents cannot be ignored [5]. Stewart particularly pointed to the importance of their recommendation on educating staff and residents.

Furthermore, Stewart has said that the “CDHA urges the federal government to incorporate oral hygiene services into its standards for long-term care” [5]. The CDHA will hope that their recommendations are implemented.

The standards will now undergo a 60-day public review. Canadians are able to give their feedback on the standards on the Health Standards website – which you can access by clicking here. Then, the final version will be published later in 2022.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Do you have a family member or friend that are in a long-term care home? If so, access to oral healthcare can be poor. Could you assist them in booking an appointment to get a check-up? This will have a positive impact on not only their oral health, but also their overall physical health.
  • 2) To improve your long-term oral health, it is important to regularly attend check-ups. This can help your overall health when you are older. We recommend that you attend a check-up once every six months. Consider booking one now – and you can check the current state of your oral health and get treatment if necessary.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides its patients with a warm welcome, a comfortable experience and advice whenever needed.

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

Importantly, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is helpful.

Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental also follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.

We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadental.ca.

References

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