Home Tag: "dental care" (Page 3)

Tag: dental care

What Impact Does Fluoride Exposure Have on the Cognitive Neurodevelopment of Children?
30Dec
New research has sought to find out if early childhood exposure to the chemical fluoride has an impact on the cognitive neurodevelopment of children. The topic of fluoride has been in the news a lot recently, so research into this subject is important. The findings may help to shape public health policy towards fluoride.

One of the most polarizing scientific debates in the modern day revolves around the chemical fluoride – with its impact and whether or not it should be added to the public water supply being heated discussion points.

Research has consistently found that fluoride is good for our oral health. It helps to strengthen our enamel, combat tooth decay, and fight off harmful bacteria [1].

However, there have been concerns raised regarding fluoride’s impact on children, including fears of over-exposure to the chemical and its impact on cognitive development [2].

Now, two senior organizations in oral healthcare have announced the publication of a new study that examines how cognitive development among young children is affected by exposure to fluoride.

Background

As discussed, fluoride is a chemical that has attracted significant debate. The oral health benefits are clear, and it is a key ingredient in both toothpaste and mouthwash.

However, the main controversy surrounding fluoride is its addition to the public water supply in some areas – known as water fluoridation.

In the United States, the debate over water fluoridation has received more attention recently due to the imminent appointment of Robert F. Kennedy as the head of the US Department of Health and Human Services [3].

Kennedy has opposed water fluoridation, and has announced that he plans on advising all US water systems to remove fluoride from the public water supply.

One of the main concerns put forward by opponents of water fluoridation is its impact on children. Moreover, this is especially in relation to exposure in early childhood.

This includes overexposure to fluoride, and concern about its impact on cognitive neurodevelopment. Therefore, new research has been conducted to look into this further.

This important study has been supported by The International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research and the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR) [4].

The Research

The research was conducted by a team from The University of Queensland’s School of Dentistry. Their findings have been published in the Journal of Dental Research [4].

The team sought to investigate potential effects of fluoride exposure on the cognitive neurodevelopment of children. To find this out, the researchers used the 4th edition of the Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS-IV) [4].

The participants in this study were a sample of Australian adults. The sample data was selected from the National Child Oral Health Study (NCOHS) 2012-14 [4].

When adults completed the NCOHS, they were aged between 6 and 16. Data was collected on oral health behaviours, socioeconomic factors, and residential history – the latter of which was crucial for determining which children had access to fluoridated water [4].

Furthermore, the children were examined by trained examiners to assess dental fluorosis – which is a reliable marker of fluoride intake during early childhood [4].

The sample – consisting of 357 participants – were then contacted to provide an update between 2022 and 2023. By this point, the participants were aged between 16 and 26 [4].

This update had the aim of collecting data on cognitive neurodevelopment using the WAIS-IV – which was administered by trained examiners [4].

The researchers then used multivariable regression models to calculate the results and any associations between the various areas [4].

Interestingly, the results showed no statistical difference between those exposed to fluoride and those that were not exposed to fluoride [4].

In fact, the regression analysis even found that IQ scores were slightly higher among those exposed to fluoride [4]. Although this was a very small difference.

Overall, the researchers concluded that early childhood exposure to fluoride does not have an effect on cognitive neurodevelopment, with their analysis demonstrating this [4].

Summary

The researchers were pleased with the findings. They hope that the results of this research will be able to play a part in shaping healthcare policy over the next few months – which coincides with crucial decisions being made in the United States.

Effie Ioannidou is the President of the AADOCR. She commented on the findings, stating that “the fluoridation of drinking water has been enormously beneficial to oral health over the decades, and to public health more generally” [5].

Continuing, Ioannidou said that “it is crucial that a wealth of scientific evidence is always available should the public ever need reminding of this fact” [5]. She says that this research is an example of this.

While there are some risks with fluoride – such as overexposure – managing the balance between the risks and benefits of fluoride is crucial.

But these findings add to the body of research which suggests fluoride has a positive impact on our oral health, and little to no impact on cognitive neurodevelopment.

Thinking points…

1) Some areas have access to fluoridated water, while others don’t. Regardless of whether you live in an area with fluoridated water or not, it is very important to visit your dentist regularly for a check-up. At a check-up, a dentist can take a thorough look at your oral health, and provide advice and suggest treatment if necessary. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

2) With fluoride being in the news so much recently, some people have decided to change to a non-fluoride toothpaste. This has the potential to cause significant dental problems! Therefore, the contents of this article could be very helpful to many people and help to downplay their fears. You could share this article on your social media channels to raise awareness, it could benefit many people. Why not share the article now?!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any 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[TM]! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set 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] National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2024). Fluoride & Dental Health. Available: https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/fluoride. Last accessed: 28th December 2024.

[2] Veneri, F., Vincenti, M., Generali, L., Giannone, M. E., Mazzoleni, E., Birnbaum, L. S., Consolo, U., & Filippini, T. (2023). Fluoride exposure and cognitive neurodevelopment: Systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis. 221. 115239. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2023.115239.

[3] Mello-Klein, C. (2024). Eliminating fluoride in water would create health problems beyond oral health, experts say. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-11-fluoride-health-problems-oral-experts.html. Last accessed: 28th December 2024.

[4] Do, L. G., Sawyer, A., Ha, D. H., et al. (2024). Early Childhood Exposures to Fluorides and Cognitive Neurodevelopment: A Population-Based Longitudinal Study. Journal of Dental Research. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/00220345241299352.

[5] International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research. (2024). The impact of early childhood exposure to fluoride on cognitive neurodevelopment. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-12-impact-early-childhood-exposure-fluoride.html. Last accessed: 28th December 2024.

Team of Dentists Carry Out Trials on Regrowing Teeth: What Will Happen Next?
22Dec
A team of dentists from Japan are testing a potentially ground-breaking drug that could enable people with missing teeth to grow new ones. This is something that researchers have been looking to achieve for decades. But now, with ongoing scientific advancements, this milestone appears to be getting closer.

One of the ultimate objectives for scientists is to one day enable people with missing teeth to grow new ones. This goal has been the subject of research for several decades.

However, owing to its complexity, a solution has not yet been found. But now, a team of Japanese dentists are testing a potentially ground-breaking drug that could hold the key to solving this ongoing problem [1].

If scientists were able to come up with a way of regrowing teeth, then this would reduce the demand for dentures and implants. Moreover, it would also represent a significant milestone in dentistry.

Missing teeth

Tooth loss is a common issue in humans. For example, research shows that approximately 180 million Americans are missing at least one tooth [2].

There are a range of potential causes of missing teeth, including extensive tooth decay, advanced gum disease, and dental trauma.

The most common treatments for a missing tooth is either dentures or implants. However, while effective, both can be costly, and have some limitations.

In an ideal world, teeth would automatically regrow when lost. But finding a way of stimulating this process has been challenging for researchers.

Third set of teeth?

Humans grow teeth in their childhood. These gradually fall out, and are eventually replaced by adult teeth, which hopefully remain in place for life.

But is it possible that a third set of teeth exist? The answer is yes, according to Katsu Takahashi, who is the Head of Oral Surgery at the Medical Research Institute at Kitano Hospital in Osaka, Japan.

Takahashi has explained that a third set of teeth exist beneath human gums [1]. He says that these are dormant buds, and remain this way for life.

The experimental drug

The experimental drug was first tested on mice and ferrets in 2023 [1]. Utilizing animal models is an important phase of drug experimentation.

The findings were promising, with the researchers publishing lab photographs of regrown animal teeth – underlining the potential of the drug [1].

The researchers said that blocking a protein called USAG-1 can trigger the development of the third set of teeth [1]. Therefore, the experimental drug works by blocking this protein.

Following animal trials, the next step involves human trials. While animals offer a good indication of how a human may react, this is not wholly reliable.

In October, Takahashi’s team began clinical trials at Kyoto University Hospital. The experimental drug was administered to participants [1].

The participants are there to test for safety at this stage, rather than effectiveness. They are adults who are missing at least one tooth [1].

When speaking about those that would be positively impacted by the drug, Takahashi mentioned those that are missing six or more permanent teeth from birth. This is a hereditary condition that affects around 0.1% of people [1].

Those with this condition face several challenges in eating, drinking, and with their oral health. Takahashi says that “this drug could be a game-changer for them” [1].

Takahashi has said that the drug is administered via injection at the desired location of the new tooth [1]. If it grows in the wrong place, he suggests it can be moved through orthodontics.

Next, the researchers will wait to see how humans react to the experimental drug, which takes the form of an antibody medicine, before deciding on further action [1].

Concerns expressed

While these updates are very exciting, some concerns have been expressed by other researchers. Chengfei Zhang, a Clinical Professor in Endodontics at the University of Hong Kong, has raised some concerns.

Zhang has acknowledged that the drug is “innovative and holds potential” [1]. However, Zhang says that the idea is “controversial” [1].

Moreover, Zhang says that the results of the animal trials raise questions “about whether regenerated teeth could functionally and aesthetically replace missing teeth” [1].

Moreover, there are concerns that the long-term impact of the development of the teeth is uncertain, and it isn’t known if the teeth would act the same way as adult teeth.

What will happen next?

The hope is that this medicine could stimulate the growth of the concealed teeth. It has positive results on animals, and it will be very interesting to see how humans react.

Takahashi has said that this is “a completely new technology” [1]. Moreover, he says that the team are hoping to make the drug available as soon as 2030.

However, significant work needs to take place before this is possible. Yet Takahashi remains confident, saying that “expectations are high”, and that the technology “can directly extend healthy life expectancy” [1].

These updates are very exciting. We will now wait to see how the trials go. Hopefully the trials will produce positive results, which could pave the way for the eventual distribution of the experimental drug.

Thinking points…

1) This update is definitely exciting, and suggests that we are edging closer to a time when teeth could actually regrow! But for now, we need to focus on the modern day, and look after our oral health. One way of doing this is to attend regular dental appointments. These appointments are helpful in ensuring that any problems are recognized and subsequently treated. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) As discussed earlier, having a missing tooth is common. If you have a missing tooth, have you considered dental implants? Dental implants look natural, provide long term results and can improve your smile. At our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental, we offer free implant consultations! These consultations allow you to review your options – read more about this at our website – https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any 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™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set 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] AFP. (2024). Japanese researchers test pioneering drug to regrow teeth. Available: https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/japanese-researchers-test-pioneering-drug-to-regrow-teeth/. Last accessed 19th December 2024.

[2] American College of Prosthodontists. (2015). Missing Teeth. Available: https://www.prosthodontics.org/assets/1/7/ACP_Talking_points_for_Missing_Teeth_1-12-15.pdf. Last accessed: 19th December 2024.

Canadian Parliament Approves Further Spending on the Cdcp: What Impact Will This Have?
16Dec
The Canadian Parliament has approved a $21 billion spending bill, with $317 million of this being allocated to the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). This represents a positive boost for the CDCP. Many people continue to benefit from the plan, with this additional funding likely to improve the CDCP’s potential further.

The Canadian Parliament has agreed to allocate an additional $317 million to the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), in a positive boost to the oral health of Canadians [1].

The CDCP has the aim of improving oral health for Canadians and assisting those with a low income in affording dental care. This additional funding should help to further the potential of the CDCP.

The $317 million addition in funding for the CDCP comes as part of a wider $21 billion spending bill which has been approved by parliament.

What is the CDCP?

The CDCP launched in December 2023. Since then, over one million Canadians have accessed services offered by the plan [2]. Therefore, it has had a significant impact already.

Dental costs are high in Canada, with research showing that approximately 25% of Canadians avoided seeing a dentist in 2022 due to cost concerns [3].

Many Canadians have developed poor oral health, and have not been able to access the treatment they have badly needed. Therefore, financial support for those with a low or medium income is important.

The CDCP assists those with an annual family income of less than $90,000. Prior to the update in parliament, $13 billion had been put aside for the CDCP, though this has now changed [1].

Parliament approves extra funding

Parliament was voting on a $21 billion spending bill, which the ruling Liberal Party had requested last month. The aim is for the $21 billion to fund various programs [1].

For example, one such program was the CDCP. The Liberals wanted a further $317 million to be allocated to the CDCP as part of the spending [1].

MP’s representing the Liberals, New Democratic Party (NDP) and Bloc Quebecois were among those to vote in favour of the additional funding [1]. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh has been a vocal supporter of the CDCP.

The Conservative Party opposed the entire spending bill – including the injection of further funding into the CDCP [1]. But there were enough votes in favour to pass the bill.

Overall, this additional $317 million will add to the $13 billion that has already been committed to the CDCP for the next five years [1]. Therefore, this should help with extending the reach of the plan further.

Anita Anand – President of the Treasury Board – has said that she was pleased that “the majority of members in the House of Commons recognize that the supports” are the “supports that Canadians need” [1].

What will happen next with the CDCP?

As discussed earlier, the CDCP has been rolled out on a gradual basis. This means that not everyone is currently available to apply for the services under the CDCP.

For example, the elderly, children, and those with disabilities are among those who are eligible to apply for the plan (provided they meet eligibility requirements).

However, in 2025, the aim is for the CDCP to open up to everyone. It isn’t yet known when in 2025 this will be, but the federal government remains confident of this happening at some point next year [4].

Health Minister Mark Holland has admitted that “I know people are anxious” regarding when they will become eligible for the CDCP [4].

Furthermore, Holland has said the government are working in order to make the plan available “as soon as possible in the new year” to apply for [4].

It is believed that around 9 million Canadians meet eligibility requirements. However, only 3 million of this group are currently eligible. Therefore, there is still a sizeable number of people – mainly those aged 18-64 – who are still waiting to be able to apply [4].

It isn’t known yet whether the additional $317 million will be spent on extending some of the services offered through the CDCP. Currently, services offered include cleanings, fillings and dentures.

Seeing the extra funding being agreed is positive, and underlines the government’s commitment to improving the oral health of Canadians. Hopefully, this funding will further improve the CDCP, and lead to more people benefiting from the plan.

Thinking points…

1) While the federal government are hoping for the CDCP to open to those aged 18-64 during 2025, it isn’t likely to be in the early part of the year. Unfortunately, some people are ignoring pressing dental issues in an effort to wait to become eligible for the CDCP. However, it is important to not wait for the plan, as problems will only become more severe. Therefore, make sure you carry on attending regular check-ups, as these allow a dentist to review your oral health. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) Earlier we mentioned about how the price of dental care in Canada means that many people are unable to afford care. However, here at our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental, our prices are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which ensures transparent and competitive prices. We would love you to visit our Calgary dental clinic! You can see more about us on our website: https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any 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™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set 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] Oral Health. (2024). Additional $317M approved for federal dental plan after Parliament held an 11th-hour vote on $21B spending bill. Available: https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/oral-health/additional-317m-in-the-works-for-federal-dental-plan-as-parliament-to-hold-an-11th-hour-vote-on-21b-spending-bill-1003983166/. Last accessed: 13th December 2024.

[2] Oral Health. (2024). Federal dental plan expands services Nov. 1 after ‘milestone’ of helping more than one million Canadians. Available: https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/oral-health/federal-dental-plan-expands-services-nov-1-after-milestone-of-helping-more-than-one-million-canadians-1003982203/. Last accessed: 13th December 2024.

[3] Health Canada. (2024). Government of Canada announces the services covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Available: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2024/02/government-of-canada-announces-the-services-covered-under-the-canadian-dental-care-plan.html. Last accessed: 13th December 2024.

[4] Von Stackelberg, M. (2024). Health minister won’t say when millions more Canadians can apply for dental coverage. Available: https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/dental-care-play-expansion-18-to-64-2025-1.7408120. Last accessed: 13th December 2024.

What Should You Do When a Child Injures Their Mouth or Teeth?
2Dec
Whether through a trip, a fall, or something else, children often get injuries. But while most injuries are easily treated, mouth-based injuries require more attention. Injuries to the mouth, including a tooth falling out or a badly bitten tongue, should be treated carefully and in a timely manner. Many parents are unaware of the importance of treating any mouth-based injuries in children quickly.

Amongst the various games, sports and other activities that children participate in, injuries are common. Perhaps they fall off their bike, slip off a climbing frame, or suffer a fall.

While in many cases this results in just a grazed knee or a twisted ankle, in some cases it can be worse. For example, this may result in an injury to the mouth or teeth.

Parents or caregivers are often unprepared for oral injuries. So if this does happen, what should a parent do to help their child?

What are the common causes of mouth injuries in children?

Research shows that approximately 1 in 3 children and teenagers experience dental trauma when they grow up [1].
Common causes of dental trauma include falls, sports injuries, car accidents, fights, and biting hard objects [1]. These can affect children of any age.

Typical injuries include teeth being knocked out, teeth becoming dislodged, a burnt mouth, or a badly bitten tongue. Treatment is often required, especially if a tooth has been knocked out.

Zameera Fida works at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine [1]. She says that “there are few true emergencies in dentistry”, however, “a permanent tooth that’s knocked out is one of them” [1].

Preventing mouth injuries

It is advisable to know ahead of time what to do. You could discuss with your dentist what steps to take if your child injures their mouth.

Moreover, it is useful to know the ages in which children are most vulnerable to injuries. When children are fully mobile for the first time – usually around 2-3, or around the ages of 8-11 when they become more independent, are the most common times that children get mouth injuries [1].

If your child plays any sports, consider purchasing a mouth guard to protect their teeth, or, if necessary, a helmet, as this can protect head and neck too.

Trying to prevent injuries and be proactive can certainly help. After all, the aim is for no child to ever get a bad mouth injury!

What should you do when a child injures their mouth?

The type of injury that the child has is important to know. For example, if a tooth has become dislodged or cracked, but is still intact, putting an ice pack on the injured area and going to an emergency dentist is needed.

However, if a tooth has been entirely knocked out, then if possible, try to find the tooth. Ideally, try to place the tooth back in its socket.

At the very least, make sure that it stays hydrated. For example, place the tooth in milk, or a saline solution. Keeping it dry will not help, with research showing that if a tooth is out of the mouth and kept dry for more than an hour, it can be very difficult to save it [1].

In terms of pain management, the level of pain is likely to depend on how deep the crack is. In terms of a tooth, lying beneath the enamel and dentin is the innermost layer – called the pulp. This contains nerves. Therefore, if the crack has penetrated the pulp, then pain is highly likely.

Regardless of the exact type of injury, if a child is in pain, or has a bad mouth injury, it is important to visit the dentist as soon as possible. When there, a dentist can try to remedy the situation.

If you are unable to get to a dentist, consider going to the emergency room. Emergency rooms have health professionals readily available, who may provide a temporary fix to relieve pain.

A dentist can then carry out the required treatment at a later date – once the situation has been stabilized.

Either way, help is available. Getting treatment for any dental problem is important, and doing so in a timely manner maximizes the chances of the damage being limited.

Thinking points…

1) If you have children, remember that visiting the dentist regularly from a young age is very important. This can help to make children aware of the importance of visiting the dentist and looking after their teeth. If there are any problems, then these can be treated at an early stage. We recommend that children should have at least two check-ups per year. Why not book an appointment now?

2) But remember that it isn’t just children that should be attending the dentist regularly! It is very important that adults too. Check-ups allow a dentist to thoroughly look at your mouth, including the teeth and gums. If any problems are identified, then treatment to fix the issues can be organized. We recommend booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any 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™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set 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] Ragovin, H. (2024). One in three kids will injure their mouth or teeth—here’s what to do when it happens. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-11-kids-mouth-teeth.html. Last accessed: 30th November 2024.

How Are Tropical Fish Inspiring Scientists in Their Efforts To Regrow Teeth?
23Nov
A key goal for researchers is that one day, humans will be able to regrow lost teeth. Scientists have been exploring this possibility for several years, but have struggled to make progress. Now, a new facility has opened in Canada which aims to take inspiration from fish in terms of finding ways of regrowing teeth.

When you think about the possibility of regrowing teeth, it is unlikely that your first thought might be based around fish. However, you might do soon!

Some tropical fish have the ability to grow and then shed multiple sets of teeth over their lifetime. Unfortunately, humans only get deciduous teeth, and then adult teeth.

With this unique ability in mind, a new research facility which will study fish closer has been officially opened [1]. The aim is that one day, human teeth will be able to regrow.

University of Manitoba’s New Facility

The University of Manitoba in Canada has officially opened a new facility called the Rady Biomedical Fish Facility, which is part of the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences [1].

This facility, which cost $2.5 million, has the aim of advancing research into the possibility of the regrowth of teeth – something which has been a key research subject for decades [1].

The facility is equipped with modern tools which can be used to study two freshwater species – zebrafish and Mexican tetra fish. Currently, there are approximately 2,000 zebrafish and 250 Mexican tetras at the facility [1].

The use of fish

Fish are very useful species to study. As Dr. Benjamin Lindsey – who works at the Max Rady College of Medicine – says, “about 70% of fish genes are the same as human genes” [1].

Therefore, scientists can learn a lot through studying fish. When using a microscope, researchers can study how the bones, teeth, organs and sensory systems of fish develop [1].

Lindsey has stated that “we’re trying to understand what’s unique, what’s special about the fish that lets them do this” [1].

By gaining a thorough understanding of the genetics behind the regeneration of teeth, the researchers believe that they will – echoing the words of Lindsey – be able to find out what is unique and special about the fish.

The hope is that this will eventually pave the way for dentists of the future to learn how to regrow teeth [1]. This would be an enormous achievement.

Lindsey has said that the technology at the facility means that “we’re leading players” in the effort to further the understanding of this subject area [1].

Why would the ability to regrow teeth be helpful?

So why is there so much interest in regrowing teeth? There are many reasons why scientists have ploughed significant resources into this area.

Tooth loss is very common. For example, approximately 180 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, which underlines the scale of the issue [2].

Tooth loss can result in difficulties in chewing and swallowing, while it can also negatively impact self-esteem. Being able to regrow teeth would stop this.

Dental implants are an excellent solution to missing teeth. However, they are very expensive, meaning that not everyone can afford them.

It would also mean that those who have lost teeth through extensive decay, advanced gum disease, trauma or through an illness, would be able to regrow their teeth.

Furthermore, the ability to regrow teeth would help many people who have a physical illness which results in malformations in teeth growth. For example, children with a condition called congenital tooth agenesis often have teeth missing, so this could certainly help them.

Finally, the ability for teeth to regrow would save money for hospitals and lower the number of people needing treatment.

Summary

This facility is certainly exciting. There is certainly a lot of potential for the research to yield findings that could one day lead to knowledge on how teeth could regrow.

Moreover, the facility is also helping out with research into physical health too, with the researchers looking at how these fish are capable of regenerating tissues after serious injuries.

As discussed above, there are many reasons why the ability to regrow our teeth would be helpful. This is an important objective of this facility.

Hopefully the research over the next few years will contribute towards the completion of this goal, which would be an incredible and major achievement in healthcare.

Thinking points…

1) While the possibility of teeth regrowing naturally may one day become a reality, realistically this is unlikely to happen soon. Therefore, remember to take excellent care of your oral health! One way of doing this involves attending regular dental check-ups. These allow a dentist to take a look at your oral health in detail and carry out an examination. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) It is common to be missing a tooth, or multiple teeth. If you are in this situation, a great option can be implants! Dental implants look natural, provide long-lasting results, and can improve your self-esteem. Here at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental, we offer free implant consultations. These consultations offer you the chance to review potential options, you can read more about this at our website – https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any 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™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set 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] Mayes, A. (2024). UM unveils new research facility where tropical fish shed light on human health. Available: https://news.umanitoba.ca/um-unveils-new-research-facility-where-tropical-fish-shed-light-on-human-health/. Last accessed: 21st November 2024.

[2] American College of Prosthodontists. (2015). Missing Teeth. Available: https://www.prosthodontics.org/assets/1/7/ACP_Talking_points_for_Missing_Teeth_1-12-15.pdf. Last accessed: 21st November 2024.

How Can a New Device Help To Improve Treatment for Cleft Lips?
18Nov
A partnership between large organizations Smile Train and Dentsply Sirona has led to the creation of a new device which should aid improvements in access to care for those with cleft-related problems. The device – called Primescan 2 – has the potential to help a range of people, especially those from low-income and sparsely populated areas.

A partnership between two large organizations has yielded the creation of a new device which will hopefully result in improvements in access to care for those with cleft-related problems [1].

The creation is called the Primescan 2, which is a portable, cloud-based dental scanner which can be used in a variety of locations – improving access to treatment [1].

This update is very positive. Anyone with oral health problems – regardless of their location – deserves to get the treatment they need.

What is a Cleft lip?

Cleft lips are a very common facial birth defect. A cleft is a gap or split in the upper lip. Clefts exist when a baby’s face doesn’t join together properly during development in the womb.

However, those with clefts face problems with breathing, eating, speaking and hearing in their formative years. While these problems typically ease as they get older, some problems can be lifelong without treatment.

Children with clefts typically have poorer oral health than those without. For example, one study found that in children aged 4-6, those born with a cleft had significantly poorer oral health than those who didn’t [2].

Therefore, getting treatment is important. Treatment normally involves corrective surgery. However, not everyone can afford this, especially those from poorer backgrounds.

Fortunately, several charities that aim to help with cleft treatments exist. These charities have helped to provide care for many children around the world.

The World Health Organization have reported that globally, clefts exist in one in every 1,000-1,500 births [3].

The partnership

The aforementioned partnership is between Dentsply Sirona and Smile Train. Dentsply Sirona is the world’s largest manufacturer of dental products and technologies [1].

Meanwhile, Smile Train is the largest cleft-focused organization in the world. They have made significant contributions towards cleft-focused research and treatments.

In fact, Smile Train has recently celebrated its 25th anniversary [1]. They have provided over 2 million cleft surgeries in its history [1]. This equates to over 80,000 surgeries a year.

This partnership works well as it combines a manufacturing giant with an organization that has significant reach in terms of finding the right recipients for care.

This is summed up by Andrea Frohning – senior vice-president at Dentsply Sirona. She calls it a “perfect partnership” as Dentsply Sirona “manufacture the equipment that allows Smile Train to reach a broader group of patients who might otherwise be unreachable” [1].

The partnership began in 2021, with Dentsply Sirona committing $5 million in donations, research, development and technological support to assist children and adults affected by clefts [1].

Primescan 2

The biggest achievement of this partnership has been the creation of Primescan 2, which was launched in September 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada [1].

Primescan 2 is a portable and fully cloud-integrated dental scanner that can help dentists to design and create dental restorations – including crowns, bridges, and dentures in-clinic [1].

The dental scanner connects seamlessly with existing CAD/CAM systems, which means it can feasibly be used by any dental practice [1].

Therefore, highly remote and sparsely populated areas which normally wouldn’t have access to such devices can benefit from this technology too [1].

The aim for both organizations in the partnership is to integrate cleft care into the healthcare policies of nations around the world. Subsequently, this would ensure that every child with a cleft can access treatment.

How will this help?

One of the biggest issues in the treatment of cleft patients is the distance that they typically need to travel. This is especially the case in some poorer nations.

Phillip Carroll – senior vice-president of communications at Smile Train – says that “half of our patients travel between two and five hours to reach care facilities, some travel for more than 18 hours” [1].

Therefore, this technology can cut down on travel time and costs, and provide more localized care [1]. This is very convenient for all parties involved.

Its low-cost and transportable nature should mean that it can be used every country around the world. This should help provide care to a huge number of people.

Smile Train hope that their positive work in this industry will continue. The organization estimated that their work has boosted economies by $69 billion in more than 90 countries [4].

The partnership will continue to run in the next few years. The development of Primescan 2 is another innovation that will hopefully result in further improvements in care for those with cleft-related conditions.

Thinking points…

1) Do you have, or know, a child with a cleft lip? If so, this article could be very interesting for them. Smile Train offers excellent resources on their website, especially if you or someone you know is looking into corrective surgery. Why not share this article with your social network now?

2) Many people, including those with a cleft lip, are at an increased risk of oral health problems. However, even if you are not at an increased risk, it is still important for you to look after your oral health. One way of helping your oral health is to attend regular dental appointments. At these appointments, a dentist can take a look at your oral health in detail and provide advice and a treatment plan if needed. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!

We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any 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™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set 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] Al-Shibeeb, D. (2024). Transforming cleft care: non-profit, dental giant use portable scanners to reach remote communities. Available: https://www.oralhealthgroup.com/news/perfect-partnership-new-tech-allows-smile-train-to-expand-global-cleft-care-with-dentsply-sirona-1003982574/. Last accessed: 14th November 2024.

[2] Chopra, A., Lakhanpal, M., Rao, N. C., Gupta, N., & Vashisth, S. (2014). Oral health in 4-6 years children with cleft lip/palate: a case control study. North American journal of medical sciences. 6 (6): p266–269. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/1947-2714.134371.

[3] Putri, F. A., Pattamatta, M., Anita, S. E. S., & Maulina, T. (2024). The Global Occurrences of Cleft Lip and Palate in Pediatric Patients and Their Association with Demographic Factors: A Narrative Review. Children. 11 (3): 322. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/children11030322.

[4] Smile Train. (2024). Smile Train Announces Global Cleft Surgeries Boost Economies by $69 Billion in More Than 90 Countries, According to New Report. Available: https://www.smiletrain.org/news/smile-train-announces-global-cleft-surgeries-boost-economies-69-billion-more-90-countries. Last accessed: 14th November 2024.