Tag: Dentistry

Researchers have concluded that the way our immune system “learns” from previous threats may actually have a negative impact on areas like inflammation. The researchers used gum disease to investigate their theory. They found that the inflammation caused by gum disease ends up having a negative effect on physical health, and can actually worsen future inflammation-based conditions.

Our immune system is a remarkable thing. It fights diseases, protects us from viruses and can detect any issues that may compromise our safety and overall health.

The various battles that the immune system encounters results in it developing a “memory” of sorts to protect us in the future from similar threats.

This is mostly great for our overall health. But this also has the negative impact of the immune system sometimes responding to something that it determines to be a threat – even if it isn’t.

For example, when the immune system is challenged by an internal driver like chronic inflammation, it can result in a misguided immune system response.

Researchers have looked into the overall process of inflammation, with a specific focus on gum disease. Therefore, this research is very important for oral health.

Background

Some of the authors in this study had previously worked together on research into the “memory” of the immune system. They found that the immune system is capable of memorizing past threats, which helps it to become more responsive to new threats [1].

A trained and responsive immune system is mainly a positive thing. However, this isn’t always the case, as the immune system can sometimes misinterpret supposed threats.

The researchers focused on gum disease in this study. Gum disease is one of the most common dental disorders, with research finding that 47.2% of adults aged 30 and over in the United States have some form of gum disease [2].

Therefore, any research into gum disease can be very useful. A common problem with gum disease is that most people do not realize the impact that gum disease has on our physical health.

The Research

The research was completed by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Dental Medicine. Their findings were then published in the journal Cell [3].

The research sought to find out the impact gum disease has on the immune system in terms of future interactions with inflammatory-based conditions.

At first, the researchers exposed a mouse to gum disease. Within a week, some of the cells in the mouse expanded in the bone marrow [3].

The researchers found that the immune system of the mouse was capable of handling the periodontal disease [3]. Therefore, there were limited changes in the cells initially.

However, the researchers soon found that the cells appeared to have memorized the inflammation they were exposed to [3]. Therefore, the researchers found that when triggered by inflammation in the future, the immune system would react differently.

The mouse that was exposed to gum disease then had some cells transplanted to mice that had never previously been exposed to gum disease [3]. A few months later, the mice were exposed to collagen antibodies – which triggered arthritis. Arthritis is also associated with inflammation.

To act as a control, cell transplants were also conducted between mice without any form of gum disease and a group of separate mice [3]. This would allow the researchers to compare findings.

The researchers found that the mice that received the cells from mice with gum disease developed more severe arthritis when compared to mice that received cells from mice that were free of gum disease [3].

Overall, the researchers said that this showed the link between inflammatory conditions. The idea was that this study essentially replicated a bone marrow transplant [3]. The mouse with gum disease acted as a donor, with the healthy mice being the recipient.

The researchers were able to conclude that the mice that received a transplant from the group of mice with gum disease were predisposed to more severe arthritis [3].

Impact on dentistry

This research shows the impact that oral health can have on physical health. If these findings were applied to humans – it would show that those with gum disease are vulnerable to severe arthritis. Furthermore, they would also put those receiving a bone marrow transplant from them at heightened risk of inflammatory conditions.

Professor George Hajishengallis, one of the researchers, talked about the impact of these findings on dentistry. “I’m proud for the field of dentistry that this work, with significance to a wide range of medical conditions, began by investigating oral health”, Hajishengallis said [4].

The researchers also spoke of the wider impact these findings may have. They noted that their conclusions could result in a reconsideration of how bone marrow donors should be selected in the future [4]. The conclusions suggest that some bone marrow donors may unwittingly place their recipient at higher risk of inflammatory disorders.

Thinking points…

1) So many of us suffer from gum disease. As this research shows, gum disease does have a big impact on physical health. Treatments are available though for gum disease – including scaling and root planing. If you do have gum disease, it may be worth discussing treatment options with your dentist at your check-up. Consider booking an appointment today!

2) While you may not think you are at risk of gum disease, the truth is that we all are. A common theme in the news is that gum disease has a big impact on physical health. Therefore, if possible, preventing gum disease is crucial. The easiest way to do this is to have excellent oral hygiene, and attend regular dental check ups. We would recommend booking an appointment now!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides a warm welcome and comfortable experience to its patience whenever needed.

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

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

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

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

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

References

[1] Hajishengallis, G., & Chavakis, T. (2021). Local and systemic mechanisms linking periodontal disease and inflammatory comorbidities. Nature Reviews Immunology. 21: p426-440. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41577-020-00488-6.

[2] Eke, P. I., Dye, B. A., & Wei, L. (2012). Prevalence of Periodontitis in Adults in the United States: 2009 and 2010. Journal of Dental Research. 91 (10): p914-920. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/0022034512457373.

[3] Li, X., Wang, H., Yu, X., Saha, G., Kalafati, L., Ioannidis, C., Mitroulis, I., Netea, M. G., Chavakis, T., & Hajishengallis, G. (2022). Maladaptive innate immune training of myelopoiesis links inflammatory comorbidities. Cell. (Pre-publication issue).DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2022.03.043.

[4] Baillie, K. U. (2022). How one inflammatory disorder exacerbates another. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-04-inflammatory-disorder-exacerbates.html. Last accessed: 29th April 2022.

Researchers have looked in detail at the mechanism behind bone loss in gum disease. Gum disease is a condition that affects many people. Researchers used various techniques to find out the behaviour of certain pathogens, and whether or not they contribute to the progression of gum disease and bone loss. The research will hopefully help dentists discover new ways of best targeting gum disease in patients.

Recent research has analyzed the mechanism behind bone loss in gum disease. Many people suffer from a form of gum disease, making any research into the topic highly relevant.

The research involves double-stranded ribonucleic acid (RNA). Double-stranded RNA is a certain type of acid that plays an important role for humans. It develops naturally.

But the researchers wanted to investigate how RNA molecules affect the immune system, and its consequent response to threats. Moreover, they then wanted to see the consequent effects this had on oral health.

Background

It has been known for a while that bacterial plaque situated in the tooth pockets is what causes gum disease. Gum disease is a very common issue. In fact, around 90% of the world’s population have some form of it [1].

Gum disease is a debilitating condition which can cause pain and irritation. If left untreated, it is possible that eventual tooth removal will need to follow. This happens as a result of bone loss. Multiple types of bacteria contribute to bone loss in gum disease [2].

Bacteria types have molecules called lipopolysaccharides within them. Lipopolysaccharides support the mouth by activating the immune system when under attack.

However, it is also linked to gum inflammation, which is a key symptom of gum disease. It is believed that this is due to lipopolysaccharides recognizing bacteria as pathogens [3].

The Research

The research was conducted by the Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. Their conclusions were published in the March issue of the Journal of Biological Chemistry [4].

The point of this research was to look into the process of lipopolysaccharides recognising the bacteria, and the eventual impact it has on the progression of gum disease and bone loss [4].

To begin with, the researchers used bone marrow cells from mice and a synthetic molecule to imitate human RNA. The researchers then exposed the bone marrow cells to the RNA [4].

Their combination led to the RNA breaking down the bone within the bone marrow cells [4]. Therefore, this made it clear to the researchers that the RNA had a strong impact on bones.

The immune system response led to the bones being further affected. While a process called stromal osteoblast helped to build new bone material for some bones, many were damaged, causing the bone to erode [4].

When the gums become inflamed from bacterial disease, a similar process happens, where the bones gradually erode. While some bones may be able to rebuild, many won’t – which worsens gum disease [4].

What this means

The researchers noted in their conclusions that the results were important for the management of gum disease. They noted that when RNA is introduced via bacteria, the immune system response clearly shows how inflammation occurs [3].

Looking to the future, the researchers suggested that their findings could be helpful for dental professionals. Dentists always preach the importance of looking after the health of our gums, with this article again emphasizing their importance.

They wish to further examine RNA’s impact on the immune system going forward. They noted that this may help develop drugs in the future that could prevent bone loss from gum disease [3].

Thinking points…

1) The main focus of this article is gum disease. As mentioned above, the majority of people have some form of the condition. If left untreated, pain and possible tooth removal could eventually happen. Therefore, it is important to attend regular dental check-ups, as a dentist will be able to look at the state of your gums, and give you an update. Why not book an appointment right away!

2) This article also discusses bacteria. Many people don’t realise that bacteria enters our mouths very easily! It isn’t just a case that bacteria enters our mouths just when eating and drinking. When we bite our nails, chew on a pen lid – these are all ways of bacteria making it into our mouths. Therefore, remember to be careful about what you put into your mouth, and have strong oral hygiene!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides a warm welcome and comfortable experience to its patience 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.

Here at [clinic], 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 clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

[1] Pihlstrom, B. L., Michalowicz, B. S., & Johnson, N. W. (2005). Periodontal diseases. Lancet. 366 (9499), p1809-1820. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(05)67728-8.

[2] Tominari, T., Sanada, A., Ichimaru, R., Matsumoto, C., Hirata, M., Itoh, Y., Numabe, Y., Miyaura, C., & Inada, M. (2021). Gram-positive bacteria cell wall-derived lipoteichoic acid induces inflammatory alveolar bone loss through prostaglandin E production in osteoblasts. Scientific Reports. 11 (13353). DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-92744-5.

[3] Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. (2022). Double-stranded RNA induces bone loss during gum disease. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-04-double-stranded-rna-bone-loss-gum.html. Last accessed: 16th April 2022.

[4] Tominari, T., Akita, M., Matsumoto, C., Hirata, M., Yoshinouchi, S., Tanaka, Y., Karouji, K., Itoh, Y., Maruyama, T., Miyaura, C., Numabe, Y., & Inada, M. (2022). Endosomal TLR3 signaling in stromal osteoblasts induces prostaglandin E2–mediated inflammatory periodontal bone resorption. Journal of Biological Chemistry. 298 (3). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101603.

Parkinson’s Disease has a negative impact on multiple areas of a patient’s life. The condition is associated with shaking and slow movement. However, researchers have now analyzed the link between Parkinson’s and oral health-related quality of life. The research found that those with Parkinson’s disease had a very poor oral health quality of life.

Parkinson’s Disease is a debilitating condition that affects a person in many different ways. It is a rather common condition that many people suffer from.

The physical impact of Parkinson’s Disease is well established. But oral health is an area related to Parkinson’s Disease which has only limited research.

Now, researchers have analysed the oral health-related quality of life for those with Parkinson’s Disease. They have found that those who suffer from the condition typically have worse oral health than those without Parkinson’s Disease.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease is a condition that involves parts of the brain getting progressively damaged over the course of many years [1]. The three main symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease are involuntary shaking, slow movement and stiff or inflexible muscles [1].

England’s NHS predicts that around 1 in 500 people are diagnosed with the condition, with most developing symptoms once they are over the age of 50 [1].

As well as physical issues, there are other issues too. For example, Parkinson’s Disease has been linked to poor mental health and general psychological wellbeing [2].

Existing research has shown a link does exist between poor oral health and Parkinson’s Disease. One study found that those with the condition have more chewing difficulties, more denture discomfort, less teeth and more swallowing issues than those without [3].

The Research

A group of researchers from the Netherlands recently completed a study. Their findings were published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation [4].

The researchers sought to analyze the link between Parkinson’s Disease and “oral health-related quality of life”. Oral health quality of life is defined as “a multi-dimensional construct that reflects factors such as people’s comfort when eating, sleeping and engaging in social interaction; their self-esteem; and their satisfaction with respect to their oral health” [4].

The research involved 752 participants aged 18-75 from the Netherlands. 341 of the participants had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Therefore, the remaining 411 did not [4].

The authors collected their data between June 2020 and June 2021. They used an electronic questionnaire, which was sent to participants. The participants were asked to report on their own oral health through several different questions [4].

The results showed that those with Parkinson’s Disease had worse oral health. For example, among the things reported were more oral facial pain, more tooth (in terms of tooth and dental tissue loss) and a higher incidence of burning mouth syndrome [4].

What this means

This research shows that there is a clear link between the oral health-related quality of life and Parkinson’s Disease. Therefore, the findings are rather worrying, and show that those with early stage Parkinson’s Disease need to take extra care with their oral health.

By adopting a more rigorous oral hygiene process, those with Parkinson’s Disease will hopefully be able to lessen future problems, or at least slow the onset of oral health problems.

The authors commented on their findings [5]. They concluded that “although problems concerning oral health are probably subordinate to other problems present in Parkinson’s Disease patients, this article suggests that oral-health related quality of life may be impaired in patients” [5].

They continued by making a recommendation to dentists [5]. By knowing about these findings, dentists “may be more alert and thus improve Parkinson’s Disease patients’ oral health to prevent further deterioration of their oral health-related quality of life” [5].

The authors did caution that there were some limitations of their study. They said that information from participants without Parkinson’s Disease was taken pre-pandemic [5].

Meanwhile those with Parkinson’s Disease reported during the pandemic. Because routine dentistry was put on hold at this time, they may have had worse oral health [5]. Therefore, this may have skewed their findings.

The authors also cautioned that the small sample size and self-report nature of the study may mean that their findings could be unreliable [5]. But their findings are still relevant, and show the clear link between Parkinson’s Disease and oral health problems.

Thinking points…

• 1) Do you know anyone with Parkinson’s Disease? The findings of this study shows that those with Parkinson’s Disease will typically have a worse oral health-related quality of life. Therefore, you could try and emphasize to them the importance of having strong oral hygiene. As part of this, try and suggest that they book a check-up soon.
• 2) Many of us will go on to have Parkinson’s Disease in the future. This research shows that oral health is crucial. Therefore, it is important to adopt strong oral hygiene now, as this can protect us in the future. Part of this is to make regular visits to the dentist for a check-up. We would recommend that you book an appointment soon!

What we offer at Savanna Dental

Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provides a warm welcome and comfortable experience to its patience 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.

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 clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.

References

• [1] National Health Service. (2019). Parkinson’s disease. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/parkinsons-disease/. Last accessed: 18th March 2022.
• [2] Uitti, R. J. (2012). Treatment of Parkinson’s disease: focus on quality of life issues. Parkinsonism & Related Disorders. 18 (2): p534-536. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/S1353-8020(11)70013-X.
• [3] Nakayama, Y., Washio, M., & Mori, M. (2004). Oral Health Conditions in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease. Journal of Epidemiology. 14 (5): p143-150. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2188/jea.14.143.
• [4] Verhoeff, M. C., Lobbezoo, F., van Leeuwen, A. M., Schuller, A. A., & Koutris, M. (2022). Oral health-related quality of life in patients with Parkinson disease. Journal of Oral Rehabiitation. 10: DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/joor.13304.
• [5] Johnson, H. (2022). People With Parkinson Disease May Have Lower Oral Health Quality of Life. Available: https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/topics/movement-disorders/those-with-parkinson-disease-reported-a-worse-oral-environment/. Last accessed: 18th March 2022.