Tag: Dentistry

Recent research has looked into the connection between nerve density and Oral Cancer. Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects many people. However, nerve density is a topic that is rarely discussed. The researchers hoped to examine the relationship between these two areas and draw conclusions.

When we hear the word “nerve” in a medical context, most people will not think about the nerves in their mouth. However, unbeknownst to many, there are many nerves in the area, including in the jaw and in the roots of the teeth.

In fact, some of the toughest oral pain to deal with happens when a nerve becomes exposed in the mouth. Therefore, research into this topic can be helpful, especially when a potential connection to Oral Cancer is examined.

Recent research has attempted to look into the relationship between nerve density and oral cancer – which is a topic that is highly relevant to the field of dentistry [1].

The Oral Cavity

The “oral cavity” refers to the mouth. There are multiple regions in the oral cavity. Each region has a different function – such as lips, gums and the tongue. Furthermore, we can’t forget the most important region in terms of oral health – the teeth!

There are many nerves in the oral cavity. Each tooth will have nerves. Other locations of nerves include on the inside of the cheek. Moreover, the nerves in the cheek are fewer in number than those on the tongue.

Due to the differences in quantity of the nerves in each area, the team looked to create a standardized metric for nerve density. This could be used consistently across multiple patients.

Oral cavity cancers are notoriously difficult to treat – with reoccurrence common [2]. Research shows that approximately two thirds of oral cancer cases are linked to tobacco and alcohol intake – though anyone can be affected [2].

The Research

The research team came from the University of Michigan’s Rogel Cancer Center and the School of Dentistry. Their work was published in the Clinical Cancer Research journal [1].

The team looked at how the density of a nerve within a tumor was connected with the growth of said tumor. As mentioned above, they looked to create a metric that would take into account multiple areas in the mouth to provide an overall indicative result [1].

This ensured that the findings would be highly relevant, as it would give a standardized metric that could be applied to any patient at any time.

Most of the work from the team was done using human tissue. This involved taking tissue samples from 142 patients with oral cancer. Therefore, the researchers had access to a range of samples.

The researchers were able to distinguish between the nerves and tumor through the use of staining with hematoxylin and eosin. Therefore, this provided the researchers with samples of both.

The team then used the aforementioned standardized metric to calculate the impact that the density of the nerve had on the tumor’s size. The tumor was monitored over time and then measured against the various nerve samples.

This was able to provide the researchers with definitive results. They found that the bigger the nerve density – the worse the outcome of oral cancer would be. Therefore, the researchers found that nerve density was crucial.

Author Comments

This is an important finding. The researchers pointed out that this knowledge could be crucial in treating cancer, as it will provide clinicians with added information on warning signs for potential tumor growth. Therefore, treatment outcomes may improve.

The authors commented on their findings. Senior author Nisha D’Silva said that her team “showed that tumors with high normalized nerve density seem to be associated with poor survival” for those with cancer [3]. Moreover, D’Silva said that the research confirmed that “patients with high normalized nerve density and a smaller distance between the nerve and the tumor have poorer outcomes” [3].

In terms of putting this into practice, the authors pointed out that if it can be worked out which cancers will be the most aggressive from the outset, then the clinicians can provide a more aggressive response from the start [3]. By having this metric, it provides researchers with more data to help them choose an effective treatment.

Looking ahead to the future, the team also discussed using artificial intelligence to measure normalized nerve density. They suggested that this could eventually result in the use of the metric in real-life situations [3].

Overall, nerve density can be a promising prognostic factor that clinicians can look into when dealing with cases of oral cancer. The authors will hope that this research will result in more informed decisions being made in treatments.

Thinking points…

1) There are some rather heavy topics in this article – including oral cancer and discussion of nerves. While these sound serious, it is important to use this article and its topics as a reminder of the importance of strong oral hygiene. Seeing a dentist for frequent check-ups can be hugely helpful! They will be able to spot any worrying signs and provide treatment if needed. We recommend that you book an appointment now!

2) Oral cancer is a type of cancer that affects many people – although out of all of the cancers, it isn’t widely discussed. It is important for people to be aware of the dangers of oral cancer and recent research into the topic. You could educate those around you by sharing this article and discussing it with them. For family members, this may help them to avoid oral health problems. We recommend sharing the article now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

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 their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

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

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

References

[1] Perez-Pacheco, C., Schmitd, L. B., Furgal, A., Beillile, E. L., Liu, M., Fattah, A., Gonzalez-Maldonado, L., Unsworth, S. P., Wong, S. Y., Rozek, L. S., Rao, A., Wolf, G. T., Taylor, J. M. G., Casper, K., Mierzwa, M., & D’Silva, N. J. (2023). Increased Nerve Density Adversely Affects Outcome in Oral Cancer. Clinical Cancer Research. (Pre-publication issue). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-22-3496.

[2] Kademani, D. (2007). Oral Cancer. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 82 (7): p878-887. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4065/82.7.878.

[3] Megdell, A. (2023). Researchers identify new metric to articulate relationship between nerve density and oral cancer. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-05-metric-articulate-relationship-nerve-density.html. Last accessed: 18th May 2023.

New research has resulted in the development of a method of manufacturing dental crowns with the help of artificial intelligence. Dental crowns are a widely used treatment to restore teeth that are very decayed or weak. Therefore, having specially designed crowns should improve their effectiveness and ensure stronger oral health for those that require dental crowns.

A research team from the University of Hong Kong (HKU) have developed a method of manufacturing dental crowns through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) [1].

This exciting research is the latest example of how leveraging AI can produce excellent results in dentistry. The findings could result in a long-term improvement of the success of dental crowns.

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are often seen as “caps” that are placed over a decayed, damaged or weak tooth to restore its shape and size. Moreover, it can also improve its appearance.

Dental crowns therefore protect the tooth from further damage or decay. If looked after properly they will often last for several years.

An X-ray is required in order for the dentist to take measurements. The dentist will place the crown before bonding it in place.

However, many people find that crowns are not right for them. Many people find that their crowns are either too large or too thin. They also typically do not last as long as desired for some people [2].

Therefore, the situation with dental crowns is one that has needed to be addressed. This is why more research into the subject is welcomed and encouraged.

The Research

The research was carried out by members of the Faculty of Dentistry at HKU. Subsequently, their findings were published in the Dental Materials journal [1].

The researchers were aiming to use AI to create an automatic algorithm that could design a dental crown. To do this, the researches used a three-dimensional deep learning approach [1].

The AI software used is called Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing. This software uses a “tooth library” that had over 600 healthy teeth templates loaded onto it [1]. The operator of the machine could then mould a crown based on the templates.

This approach produced personalized crowns with high accuracy. The researchers found that they could mimic the materials required for the biomechanics of natural teeth.

The researchers tested the crown using something called “biomechanical finite analysis” [1]. This tested the AI-designed crowns in terms of their durability. This is important, as when a patient receives a crown, they will expect it to be highly durable and last for many years.

The researchers were delighted with the outcome. They found that the AI-designed crown was capable of achieving a similar expected lifespan compared to natural teeth [1].

The design would use machine learning to produce the optimum design based on a patient’s tooth and exact dimensions of the surface area. It is capable of getting the required specific dimensions at a microscopic level. This ensures effectiveness.

The impact this could have

Looking at the impact of these findings is important. For example, by having this technology, the design and fitting process of dental crowns could be improved significantly. Therefore, improved treatment outcomes would be likely.

The research was led by Dr. James Tsoi, an Associate Professor at HKU. He and his fellow authors were very pleased with the results. Tsoi commented that the technology “could be utilized to design personalized dental crowns with high accuracy” [3].

Tsoi also praised the fact that this technology would reduce human involvement in the design process, stating that the technology allows the process to “operate without any additional human fine-tuning”, which would reduce the workload of dentists.

The use of AI will improve accuracy in dentistry. Currently, there is an element of guesswork for the dentist that moulds crowns. While they do their utmost to maximize patient comfort, it can be difficult to make the crown fit perfectly.

However, this technology is capable of improving outcomes and comfort for patients. This is summarized by one of the authors Dr. Hao Ding – who said that “the algorithm improves the quality of the design” [3].

Clinical trials based on using AI for dental crowns are already underway [3]. The hope is that these crowns will eventually replace human-crafted crowns. This will greatly improve the quality of treatment and result in better oral health for patients.

Thinking points…

1) The aim should always be prevention for dental problems. For example, the aim is for us to never need to have dental crowns. Aside from a healthy diet, it is also crucial to attend regular dental check-ups! These check-ups allow a dentist to have a thorough look at your oral health and suggest treatments if needed. We recommend booking an appointment now!

2) Dental crowns are very effective at protecting damaged teeth. They also improve appearance and can restore confidence. Here at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental, we offer dental crown treatments at competitive prices. If you are interested in hearing more about this treatment please see our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca. We would love to see you soon!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

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

It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and to floss regularly. Moreover, eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary foods and drink is important.

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 their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.

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

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

References

[1] Ding, H., Cui, Z., Maghami, E., Chen, Y., Matinlinna, J. P., Ho Nang Pow, E., Fok, A. S. L., Burrow, M. F., Wang, W., & Tsoi, J. K. H. (2023). Morphology and mechanical performance of dental crown designed by 3D-DCGAN. Dental Materials. 39 (3): p320-332. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dental.2023.02.001.

[2] Pjetursson, B. E., & Heimisdottir, K. (2018). Dental implants – are they better than natural teeth?. European Journal of Oral Sciences. 126 (51): p81-87. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/eos.12543.

[3] The University of Hong Kong. (2023). Researchers develop technology to use generative AI in smart manufacturing of dental crowns. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-04-technology-generative-ai-smart-dental.html. Last accessed: 5th May 2023.

The President of the Canadian Dental Association has voiced the organization’s concern over a shortage of dental assistants in Canada. They have highlighted that this shortage could have a very negative impact on oral healthcare in Canada. Therefore, action may need to be taken soon to increase the number of dental assistants in Canada.

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) have cautioned that the ongoing shortage of dental assistants in Canada will cause a range of problems for oral healthcare in the country [1].

Concerns have been raised regarding a backlog in oral health appointments, too much demand from patients and no space for new patients at some clinics.

These problems would have a devastating impact on Canadian oral healthcare and will hopefully be tackled and mitigated soon to ensure there is minimal disruption to oral healthcare in Canada.

The role of a dental assistant

Dental assistants are a crucial part of oral healthcare. In many ways they are the “unsung heroes” that quietly perform crucial tasks in the background without many people even noticing!

Dental assistants help dentists and hygienists perform their jobs. For example, they will often help during procedures by handing dentists equipment, taking X-rays, sterilizing instruments and looking after the patients.

As time has moved on the role of the dental assistant is more important than ever before. Some dental assistants can even perform activities like removing temporary fillings or crowns and administering anaesthesia.

The shortage

As summarized above, the importance of dental assistants is clear. Therefore, it is concerning that there is a shortage of these skilled workers in Canada.

Lynn Tomkins, President of the CDA, has warned that without adequate staffing, that many dental clinics will not be able to meet the patient demand.

Tomkins has said that the shortage “is the number one issue for dentists across the country” [1]. As a result, she says that dentists have had to alter or reduce their hours due to the lack of staff.

When asked about how much of a shortage there is, Tomkins said that currently there is a “shortage of almost 5,000 dental assistants” in Canada [1].

Statistics show that there are over 25,000 dental assistants in Canada [2]. However, many retire each year and qualifying as a dental assistant takes time.

Moreover, Tomkins has also pointed out that the upcoming expansion of the Canadian National Dental Plan will result in increased demand from the public for dental care, as more people than ever before will have access to oral healthcare.

Why is there a shortage of dental assistants in Canada?

Many people have attributed such shortages to the impact of the global pandemic Covid-19. However, Tomkins says that there was already a shortage prior to the pandemic.

She points out that in 2019, the CDA found that a third of dental clinics in Canada were advertising jobs for dental assistants [1]. Tomkins said that “Covid-19 exacerbated this problem” [1].

The pandemic appeared to cause many to leave the profession, with the Canadian healthcare system becoming very stretched. Furthermore, a 2022 survey found that during the pandemic 57% of surveyed dental assistants said their environment had become increasingly stressful [1].

Another cause is the perceived lack of pay. Kelly Mansfield is a board member of the CDAA and a former dental assistant that commented on this [1]. She pointed out that “it’s very hard to raise a family on a dental assistant salary” and that in her case she needed to leave the industry due to the poor salary [1].

Given the hard work and risk involved, many don’t feel that they are adequately compensated. Regardless of industry, when employees don’t feel like they are paid enough they are likely to leave – with dental assistants being no different.

The impact

Without dental assistants, a dental clinic wouldn’t operate in the same way. They are crucial and a big shortage would have a significant impact on oral healthcare in Canada.

There are many potential problems. For example, these include a large backlog in oral health appointments, more demand from patients than supply, and no space for new patients at some clinics.

Then there is also the concern that some dental clinics may need to turn to untrained individuals – which would cause the standard of dentistry to lessen. Therefore, poorer treatment outcomes are likely.

Tomkins has urged the government and policy makers to do more for dental assistants. This includes aiding their mental health through support services. Moreover, Tomkins also recommends that more training courses are made available to those who wish to become a dental assistant.

It is therefore very important for us all to make the most of the current oral healthcare situation, as there may be some problems upcoming. Hopefully there will soon be a surge in dental assistants to combat these issues. Irrespective of concerns like the above, having strong oral health is always vital!

Thinking points…

[1] As this article shows, Canada is in need of dental assistants. Do you think you could become one? The Canadian Dental Assistants Association (CDAA) have a useful webpage that provides a guide on how you could become one. The average age of a Canadian dental assistant is 38 – so it is never too late to change career! You can read more about this at the following link – https://www.cdaa.ca/da-promotion/?lang=en.

[2] The potential problems outlined in this article would result in longer waiting times for appointments at dental clinics. Therefore, it is highly advisable to book an appointment as soon as possible. This will ensure that you won’t be part of any potential backlog and will have information on any treatment that you might need. We recommend booking an appointment right away!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a wide range of dental services and treatments for all its patients.

It is very important to have excellent oral hygiene. This involves brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and eating healthily. Therefore, this should help your oral health.

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

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

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

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

References

[1] Dangerfield, K. (2023). Canada has a dental assistant shortage. Experts worry it’ll only get worse. Available: https://globalnews.ca/news/9631941/dentist-assistant-shortage-canada/. Last accessed: 22nd April 2023.

[2] Canadian Dental Assistants Association. (2023). Dental Assisting in Canada. Available: https://www.cdaa.ca/da-promotion. Last accessed: 22nd April 2023.