Home Tag: "oral health" (Page 23)

Tag: oral health

What Is the Oreo Test for Cleaning Children’s Teeth? And Does It Work? - Savanna Dental
15Feb
Parents have a big role to play in the oral health of their children. Toothbrushing can be a tedious task for children, but there are ways for parents to get their children engaged. One such way is called the Oreo test, which can be effective in many ways. This month is National Children’s Dental Month, meaning it is an excellent time for parents to promote the importance of good oral health.

This month is National Children’s Dental Month, which offers a chance for the oral health of children to be focused on. It also presents a chance for parents to remind children of the importance of their dental health.

Parents have a big responsibility to their children. It is crucial that they teach them strong oral hygiene from a young age. This has many long-term benefits.

There are many different ways that parents can help their child engage with brushing their teeth. One successful method is called the Oreo test!

What is the Oreo test?

The Oreo test is an interesting technique that parents can use to see how effective their child is at brushing their teeth. Toothbrushing is a crucial skill that a person will need throughout their life. The Oreo test is a fun and simple activity. It involves a child eating an Oreo biscuit, before then brushing their teeth, as they would do normally [1].

After the child has finished brushing, the idea is to then get the child to open their mouth wide. If crumbs from the Oreo are still visible, it shows that the child is making mistakes when brushing their teeth [1].

The test works for all parties. For children, they get a tasty snack before bed. They also get a visual look at how effective their brushing is. For parents, they can see if improvements are required.

If crumbs are still there, then it shows the parents that there is room for improvement in their child’s oral hygiene [1]. They should be taught how to improve their brushing technique.

To mark the progress of a child’s improvements, the test can be repeated when necessary. This way, the child will continuously have something to aim for. Throughout this, parents should support and congratulate their child for any improvements made.

The importance of good oral health for children

Good oral health is crucial for children to attain. This is a topic that Elise Sarvas – Clinical Associate Professor of Paediatric Dentistry at the University of Minnesota – has frequently spoken about [2].

Sarvas says that having good oral health as a child “lays the groundwork for many important milestones” in life [2], These milestones include talking, growing healthily and establishing self-esteem, all of which oral health plays a part in [2].

Sarvas has also said that the mouth is “an integral part of the body” [2]. Because of this, it is therefore important that parents underline the importance of oral health to their children.

Studies show that children who brush their teeth from a young age will typically go on to have better oral hygiene in adulthood [3]. Therefore, parents should get their children to form healthy habits from a young age.

National Children’s Dental Health Month

It is important to have a month dedicated to children’s dental health. It should serve as a chance for parents to assess how they are helping, or impeding, their child’s oral health.

While the Oreo test outlined above can be useful, there are other approaches too that can be successful. Among the most important is to have a healthy and nutritious diet with a low sugar intake.

Trying to consume fresh fruit and vegetables is important. Moreover, drinking water as opposed to soda or juice is another measure that can be very useful for children over time.

Soft-bristled toothbrushes are generally best for children. But it is important for children to use these gently, as using them too aggressively can result in gum irritation. It is recommended to avoid giving a child an electric toothbrush at first.

Sarvas recommends that parents attend when their child goes to a dental clinic for the first time for a check-up [2]. Sarvas suggests that this should take place either after their first birthday, or after they grow their first tooth [2].

But parents should always check on their children’s brushing habits. Sarvas highlights that toothbrushing can be a difficult experience for children [2]. As a result, parents should supervise their toothbrushing from a young age.

It is also important for parents to practice strong oral hygiene themselves. Therefore, parents should attend dental check-ups at least twice a year. After all, parents’ use of oral health services is closely linked to children’s use of these services [4].

Finally, it is important to remember that these measures shouldn’t just be enacted for the National Children’s Dental Health Month. Instead, parents must remain committed all-year round to their child’s oral health.

Thinking points…

  • 1) This article talks about the Oreo test; while it is useful for children, it is also very relevant for adults too! Consider doing the Oreo test yourself, and see how you do. It will give you an insight into how good your brushing habits are. Therefore, you will be able to see ways of improving your brushing.
  • 2) Have you got a young child? If so, the Oreo test is a great way of assessing how well a child is brushing their teeth. Remember to praise them for doing well, and suggest improvements if they struggle. Remember to do what you can to emphasize the importance of oral health.
  • 3) It is also very important for adults to set a good example for their children. This includes brushing your teeth a minimum of twice a day and attending regular check-ups. You may choose to bring your child to your check-up. Therefore, this would show the child how it is important to take oral health seriously.

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

  • [1] Helyar, H., & Cardoso, A. (2022). What is the “Oreo Test” When Toothbrushing? Does it work?. Available: https://www.generation95.com/what-is-the-oreo-test-when-toothbrushing-does-it-work/. Last accessed: 13th February 2022.
  • [2] Medicalxpress. (2022). The ‘Oreo test’ and other ways to help kids’ oral health. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-02-oreo-ways-kids-oral-health.html. Last accessed: 11th February 2022.
  • [3] Atarbashi-Moghadam, F., & Atarbashi-Moghadam, S. (2018). Tooth Brushing in Children. Journal of Dental Materials and Techniques. 7 (4): p181-184.
  • [4] Isong, I. A., Zuckerman, K. E., Rao, S. R., Kuhlthau, K. A., Winickoff, J. P., & Perrin, J. M. (2010). Association Between Parents’ and Children’s Use of Oral Health Services. Pediatrics. 125 (3): p502-508.
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

What Are the Warning Signs of Mouth Cancer That We Shouldn’t Ignore? - Savanna Dental
1Feb
Mouth cancer continues to be a big problem, with many people being affected by the condition each year. One of the biggest issues with treatment is when there is late detection of symptoms. Therefore, it is important to pay close attention to our oral health. This includes looking out for possible signs and symptoms, and regularly visiting a dentist to get professional advice.

Mouth cancer is a type of cancer which affects millions of people around the world each year. While recovery rates are strong, it can be life-threatening in many cases.

Many people focus on their physical health. It is common for oral health to be neglected. However, our oral health and physical health are intrinsically linked. Therefore, oral health needs to be valued highly.

It is important to pay close attention to our oral health. Crucially, there are some warning signs and symptoms that we can look out for, especially in terms of mouth cancer.

A dentist will be able to look out for any signs of mouth cancer, and offer practical advice where needed. This confirms again the importance of visiting a dentist for a regular check-up.

Background

Mouth cancer is also known as oral cancer. Surprisingly, it is a form of cancer that many are unaware of. Mouth cancer is actually the sixth most common form of cancer around the world [1].

One study found that 2.1% of cases of cancer were mouth cancer [2]. Moreover, the same study found that 145,000 patients around the world die each year of factors relating to mouth cancer [2].

The rates of mouth cancer have largely remained steady in recent years. However, lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol and obesity have all been linked with a rise in some parts of the world, including India [3].

Warning signs

There are warning signs that we can all look out for. For example, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) outline six potential warning signs and symptoms of mouth cancer [4]:

  • Painful mouth ulcers which last for several weeks
  • Unexplained lumps in the mouth or neck that do not go away
  • Loose teeth or sockets which do not heal, typically after a tooth extraction
  • Feeling of persistent numbness in the tongue of the mouth or lip
  • White or red patches in the lining of the mouth or tongue
  • Changes in speech, such as a lisp

It is important to mention that any of the above warning signs can be an issue, and should not be ignored. Equally, the above is not an exhaustive list of symptoms.

The problem of late detection

Mouth cancer is normally not deadly. The NHS suggests that when mouth cancer is diagnosed early, 9 in 10 people will be cured through surgery alone [4].

But this does show the importance of early detection. If the early warning signs of mouth cancer are missed, then the chances of recovery become poorer. If left untreated, symptoms will worsen, and will become more difficult to recover from.

In fact, the Mouth Cancer Foundation have said that most deaths from mouth cancer are due to late detection [5]. This is “due to a low public awareness of the signs, symptoms and risks” [5].

Preventing mouth cancer

Because of the importance of early detection, it is crucial to see your dentist regularly. By visiting the dentist, any potential signs of mouth cancer can be picked up on. If there are problems, then treatment can begin quickly.

The useful thing about seeing the dentist is that they can provide a comprehensive check on a person’s oral health. Not only will they look out for cavities, plaque and gum health, but they will also look for signs of mouth cancer and similar ailments.

At the very least, if you come across some of the above symptoms, you should not delay in seeing a dental professional. Some people can be reluctant to see a dentist because of the costs involved, but this can be a life-or-death situation.

Aside from attending regular dental check-ups, there are other ways of aiding the prevention of oral cancer. This includes not smoking, lowering alcohol consumption, and eating a healthy diet which includes plenty of fruit and vegetables [4].

Mouth cancer can affect anyone, at any time. Staying alert is important, and having excellent dental hygiene can help towards strong oral health. Looking out for the warning signs discussed above is very important. Overall, it is important to value our oral health, and do what we can to prevent mouth-related conditions from arising.

Thinking points…

  • 1) Were you aware of any of the warning signs? Are you, or anyone in your family, affected by these symptoms? If so, it is crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible! A lot of the time, it won’t be anything to worry about, but it is important to seek professional advice and treatment.
  • 2) This article shows the importance of attending the dentist on a regular basis. Are you due a check-up? If so, we recommend booking an appointment soon! By seeing a dentist, they will be able to check the overall state of your oral health, and offer recommendations where 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

How Important Is It to Treat a Fear of the Dentist at an Early Age? - Savanna Dental
17Jan
New research has shown that treating dental fear at a young age can have several benefits in the long-term. The research shows that if a person with a fear of the dentist gets appropriate treatment, then they are likelier to attend dental appointments in the future. This study, based in Finland, focused on a clinic targeted at those who had dental fear. The findings show it is important to treat dental fear at a young age, rather than letting it worsen over time.

Recent research has shown that treating dental fear from a young age is crucial for long-term strong oral health. If dental fear is ignored, it risks worsening over time.

The researchers analysed patients at a Finland-based dental clinic that was specifically used to treat those with dental fear [1]. These clinics are rare, but are worth researching.

The researchers reviewed the progress of patients treated at the clinic as a means of finding out if early treatment of dental fear had a positive long-term effect. The results were positive [1].

The vicious cycle

Being afraid of the dentist is very common. For example, approximately 1 in 2 adults say they are at least “somewhat afraid” of the dentist, with 1 in 10 saying they are “very afraid” [2].

As a result, there are various coping mechanisms that people resort to in order to make it through the ordeal. Some will ask to be anesthetized, while some may play music or daydream. But by far the most damaging action is avoidance. This is simply where a person chooses to avoid going to the dentist.

Avoidance of dental appointments can result in worsening overall health. Moreover, studies show that avoidance of dental appointments is associated with poor self-care, and physical health problems [3].

If a person does avoid going to the dentist, their oral health will worsen over time. Moreover, their problems will get progressively worse. What might have started out as a simple cavity filling might morph into something more serious, like an infection that requires a root canal.

Sadly, this pain will only become more intense. Therefore, this will make the patient less likely to return in the future. And thus, the vicious cycle continues.

The Research

The research was produced by researchers at the University of Oulu, Finland [1]. The researchers followed a group of 152 participants that had been treated at a clinic named the Clinic for Fearful Dental Patients [1]. This clinic is located in Oulu, Finland.

This clinic is a specially-crafted area where patients receive help with their dental fear, as well as actual dental treatment [1]. This approach aims to help a patient to overcome their fear of the dentist.

This model is rather unique, and focuses on dealing with dental fear as well as dental care. This is unlike other dental clinics, which focus purely on carrying out treatment. Forms of talking therapy are typically used at the clinic to treat dental fear.

The study looked at the long-term effects of treatment for dental fear. They carried out a follow-up study on the 152 participants [1]. This study was set 10 years later, to see how they were coping with dental treatments a decade after their treatment at the clinic [1].

The researchers asked the 152 participants whether or not they are able to get regular dental treatment without a problem, or if they still require help, or remain a patient at the clinic [1].

In the end, the results proved to be very effective. The researchers found that the majority of the 152 now had no issue in attending a regular dentist [1]. Only a small amount remained uncomfortable. The evidence shows that the treatment does have a positive effect.

Analysing the results

These results build upon previous research into the Clinic for Fearful Dental Patients, which found that 7 out of 10 people treated at the clinic found their dental fear lessened immediately as a result of treatment [4]. Therefore, the evidence shows it has both positive short and long-term effects.

Lead Researcher Taina Kankaala commented on the findings. She said that this study showed the long-term benefits that were possible as a result of treatment at a young age [2]. However, the level of success was “surprising” to Kankaala, who had expected more modest results [2].

Kankaala mentioned that if dental fear wasn’t addressed, then a “severe fear of dental care will usually not ease” on its own, meaning treatment is crucial [2].

It could be suggested that this model of working with nervous or afraid patients can have long-term benefits for both clinics and patients. Clinics will have less cancelled appointments, while patients will be more open to attending check-ups.

In the future, it is possible that similar clinics could be created. They certainly seem to be effective. This research certainly suggests such clinics would be useful for many people.

Thinking points…

  • 1) It is completely normal to feel anxious or uneasy about going to the dentist. But options are available. Here at Savanna Dental, our staff are trained to provide a comforting and warm experience throughout your time with us. You will have the chance to discuss any reservations or concerns, and our professional staff will try to put you at ease!
  • 2) We briefly mentioned about how dental problems will get worse if left untreated. While this is true, it is never too late to seek treatment. Therefore, if you have many untreated oral health problems or haven’t been to the dentist in many years, we recommend that you book a check-up soon! The sooner you are treated, the easier your problems will be to treat.

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 Bacteria Make Us More Vulnerable to Viruses and Affect Our Gums? - Savanna Dental
9Jan
Recent research has identified a particular type of bacteria that can cause severe oral health problems, regardless of a human’s immune system. Researchers found that a family of proteins that protect humans, called interferon lambdas, are reduced by a bacteria called Porphyromonas gingivalis. Therefore, this can leave a person vulnerable to infection. Porphyromonas gingivalis is also heavily connected to gum disease, making it a dangerous type of bacteria.

Researchers from the University of Louisville’s School of Dentistry in Kentucky, United States, have analysed a form of bacteria that can increase a person’s vulnerability to viruses and speed up the onset of gum disease.

The researchers identified that some of the proteins we rely on to protect us from viruses and infections can actually be suppressed by the bacteria, which is called porphyromonas gingivalis [1].

As a result, the researchers are aiming to raise awareness of this type of bacteria. This case also shows the importance of strong oral health. By having great oral hygiene, we can lessen the chances of bacteria affecting us.

The mouth and viruses

The mouth is commonly the entry point for viruses and infections. Specifically, viruses that attack the gastrointestinal tract and lungs, normally enter via the mouth.

Conditions that enter through the mouth include Herpes, HIV, and even some cancer-causing viruses. Moreover, Covid-19 is known to enter through the mouth [2]. The world has seen in the last two years the impact a virus can potentially have.

The Research

The researchers started by analysing Interferon lambdas – a family of proteins that are known to protect the body. These proteins are produced by epithelial cells in the mouth [3]. Epithelial cells are those that protect compactly packed cells. These cells are responsible for protecting humans from viral infections.

However, the researchers found that a type of oral bacteria called porphyromonas gingivalis reduces the production of these proteins [1]. Therefore, when this bacteria is present, the person becomes more vulnerable to infection [1].

The researchers analysed in depth what happens when porphyromonas gingivalis comes into contact with the human mouth. It was after seeing the effects it had, that they were able to make their conclusions [1].

Another worrying effect that porphyromonas gingivalis had on the human body was gum health. The researchers found that porphyromonas gingivalis causes gum disease. Furthermore, it can also hasten the development of periodontal disease, which is a more severe type of gum disease.

This dangerous bacteria can cause a build up of plaque. Over time, this plaque will eventually weaken enamel. Plaque will cause the gums to become infected, and cavities will also appear.

Gum disease can cause several problems. For example, tooth loss is a possible eventual complication of gum disease. Therefore, it is important for humans to try and avoid gum disease. As a result, this bacteria can be very damaging.

Because porphyromonas gingivalis has been linked to several other conditions, this finding was unsurprising for the researchers. The bacteria has also been connected to Rheumatoid Arthritis and Alzheimer’s Disease [4].

What this study shows

This study shows the importance of trying to reduce bacteria in the mouth wherever possible. In an age of many viruses, the more protection we have, the better.

The best way to limit the amount of bacteria in the mouth is to have excellent oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and attending regular dental check-ups. Sugary and high-calorific foods and drink will often contain harmful bacteria. Therefore, having a healthy diet can also help.

Juhi Bagaitkar, Assistant Professor at the Department of Oral Immunology and Infectious Disease at the University of Louisville, was among those to carry out the research. Bagaitkar commented on the findings [5].

She said that their team had found that the bacteria porphyromonas gingivalis “can completely suppress interferon production and severely enhance susceptibility to viral infection” [5]. Moreover, she continued “these resident oral plaque bacteria play a key role in regulating anti-viral responses” [5].

The authors suggested that in the future, methods of finding ways to increase protection against this specific bacteria could be enacted. Further research into sources of this bacteria is expected in the future.

Thinking points…

  • 1) The bacteria above is known to cause gum disease. Many people worry about gum disease, and rightfully so. If you are worried about gum disease, the best thing to do is book a check-up with your dentist. They will be able to assess your mouth and provide advice and treatment if necessary.
  • 2) You would be surprised at how easily bacteria can make it into the mouth. Anything we put in our mouths will contain bacteria. Whilst food and drink is obviously understandable, there are other habits we should stop. For example, not biting your nails, avoiding chewing on a pen lid or any other unnecessary activity. Think about the practical steps you can take to lessen bacteria in your mouth.

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.

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

References

What Is the Current State of America’s Oral Health? - Savanna Dental
3Jan
A landmark new report released by the National Institutes of Health has provided a comprehensive review of the state of oral health in the United States. The report shows that strong oral health is directly linked to overall health and wellbeing. Moreover, the report found that strong progress has been made in the last two decades in treating oral health conditions. However, there is still room for improvement, including developments in access to care.

The U.S. National Institutes of Health have released a landmark report which has provided a comprehensive review of the overall state of oral health in the United States.

The report, called Oral Health in America: Advances and Challenges [1], has provided a direct follow-up to a 2000 report titled Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General [2]. Both reports involved substantial research.

The main objective of the new report is to provide a road map on how oral health within the United States can improve in the next few years. Therefore, the findings from this report should help to improve treatment outcomes for oral health conditions.

The State of Oral Health in 2000

As mentioned, the last time that a major study took place was in 2000 [2]. The 2000 study found that between 1950 and 2000, “great progress” had been made with oral health, especially in regards to tooth decay and gum disease [2].

The report concluded that strong oral health could be “achieved by all Americans” [2]. However, the authors did find that there was an inequality in terms of some Americans not receiving the same degree of oral health [2].

As a result, many people were still experiencing pain and suffering, despite treatments being available. The report also highlighted that this was lowering the quality of life for many people [2].

Finally, the authors wanted to ensure that oral health isn’t limited to just teeth. Instead, oral health also includes conditions like gum disease, birth defects and throat cancer [2].

The 2021 Report

The focus of the 2021 report is to primarily highlight the importance of oral health, along with its impact on our overall health and well-being [1].

The research found that oral health treatments have improved dramatically in recent years. This has been made possible through various innovations, technological advancements, and improved knowledge of conditions.

The improvements in oral health treatments have led to better oral health for many people. The authors cite lower rates of tooth decay, more treatment options being available, and increased knowledge of dental condition causes as examples of where improvements have been made [1].

Crucially, the report concluded that oral health is heavily connected to physical health [1]. Oral health and physical health conditions commonly share risk factors. Therefore, looking after our oral health has physical health benefits too. Heart disease, strokes and chronic infections are all potential physical health consequences of poor oral health [1].

Healthy behaviour can improve and help to maintain an individual’s oral health, the report found. But these “behaviours” can be reliant on social and economic conditions [1]. For instance, the researchers found that substance abuse and mental health conditions negatively affect oral health [1].

The report mainly found improvements had been made. However, issues still remain in terms of achieving equity in all Americans receiving the required dental care [1]. The main problems with this are access to care, insurance issues, and then the costs involved [1].

What next?

The Acting Director of the National Institutes of Health, Lawrence A. Tabak, called the report “very significant” [3]. He went on to say that the report presented “the most comprehensive assessment of oral health currently available in the United States” [3]. Tabak went on to mention that the report shows “unequivocally, that oral health plays a central role in overall health” [3].

Improvements are possible though. The authors make a few different recommendations to improve oral health in the United States. This includes the need for healthcare professionals to work together “to provide integrated oral, medical and behavioral healthcare in schools, community health centers, nursing homes, and medical care settings, as well as dental clinics” [3].

The report also found that there is a need to improve access to care, which will involve “addressing the rising cost of dental education, expanding insurance coverage, and improving the overall affordability of care” [3]. This has been an ongoing issue for many years, with millions of Americans still unable to access dental care, with cost an issue for many [4].

But the authors do give a positive outlook for the future. Rena D’Souza, of the National Institutes of Health, sees a future where “systemic inequities that affect oral health and access to care are more fully addressed, and one in which dental and medical professionals work together to provide integrated care for all” is possible [3]. This will certainly be the aim in the next few years.

In the future, this will be seen as an important report that gave a snapshot to the oral health situation in the United States. It can be used in the future as a basis to measure improvements made.

Thinking points…

  • 1) One of the main takeaways from this report is how oral health can affect physical health, and vice versa. With this in mind, if you are currently having physical health problems, could this potentially be related to oral health? If so, think of how you can improve your oral health, you may see a positive effect on your physical health.
  • 2) The best way to see the overall state of your oral health is to book a check-up with your dentist. They will be able to give you a thorough update on the state of your oral health, and provide a treatment plan if necessary. We recommend booking a check-up as soon as possible.
  • 3) The authors of this report noted that the Covid-19 pandemic has been impacting dentistry, which is true. However, most dental clinics have re-started offering routine appointments. It is understandable to be apprehensive about returning to the dentist, but consider doing so, as any problems can be detected and acted upon.

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.

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.

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