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Tag: oral health

Is a Plant-Based Diet Good for Your Oral Health - Savanna Dental Clinic
18May
A plant-based diet has the potential to have a positive effect on our oral health, with benefits including lessening inflammation of the gums, lowering sugar intake and possibly preventing oral cancer. But the evidence isn’t all positive, and a plant-based diet doesn’t act as a replacement for strong oral hygiene.

The link between a nutritious diet and strong oral health is well-known, but how does a plant-based diet effect our dental health? With plant-based diets becoming increasingly popular in recent years, it is important to consider this diet’s impact on oral health.

While a plant-based diet can take many forms, it will typically consist of foods derived from plants – such as vegetables, fruits, nuts and beans. Across Canada, many people are choosing to adopt plant-based diets, underlining their popularity.

Plant-based diets are known to have many physical health benefits, such as stimulating weight loss, lowering cholesterol levels and decreasing the chances of cardiovascular disease [1].

But as well as physical health benefits, plant-based diets can have a positive effect on dental health, as we show in this article. However, there are some important considerations to be made.

Plant-based diet’s effect on oral health

Oral health continues to be very problematic for many people, with the World Health Organization going as far to say that untreated dental caries is the most common health condition worldwide [2].

The effect of a plant-based diet on oral health is a very-well studied area, with results largely pointing to plant-based diets having a positive effect on oral health, albeit with some caveats.

Mouth cancer presents one of the most serious issues in oral health (click here to read more). Figures from the Canadian Cancer Statistics found that in 2020, an estimated 5,400 Canadians were diagnosed with oral cancer, with the condition causing 1,500 deaths [3]. The American Dental Association have stated that “current evidence supports a diet high in fruits, vegetables and plant-based foods for prevention of oral cancer [4], which shows how a plant-based diet is considered to contribute to preventing oral cancer.

One of the biggest problems facing the population in the modern day is periodontal disease – better known as gum disease. Signs of gum disease include swelling (also known as inflammation) and redness around the gum.

A plant-based diet can lessen inflammation, as it is normally high in a form of acid known as gamma-linoleic acid, which is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties [5].

Furthermore, one study found that participants with a vegetable-based diet (similar to a plant-based diet) had significantly fewer symptoms of gum disease than study participants that had more of a more conventional and traditional diet [6].

As well as having anti-inflammation qualities, plant-based diets also typically cut out a lot of sugar – something that is a key cause of many oral health problems. Sugar has a debilitating impact on teeth, and is one of the leading drivers of tooth decay and eventual cavities.

Foods and beverages that contain refined sugars (essentially the unhealthiest type of sugar) are notoriously bad for our teeth. Foods and drinks high in refined sugars include ice cream, confectionery and soda. They are known to increase inflammation and acidity in the mouth.

Again, by using a plant-based diet, refined sugars are largely avoided. While sugar will still be consumed, such as in fruits, these are at least naturally occurring sugars which are less harmful to the mouth.

A word on citrus fruits

While there are clearly positives, as outlined above, it is important to mention the negative impact that citrus fruits can have. Studies show that citrus fruits such as lemons, limes and oranges can erode tooth enamel faster than sources of refined sugars.

One large study found that by consuming citrus fruits more than twice a day was associated with 37 times greater odds of dental erosion when compared to those who didn’t. For comparison, those that had a daily can of soda had 4 times greater odds of dental erosion than those who avoided soda [7].

This study suggests that it is important to consume citrus fruits in moderation, and serves as a reminder that just because a food is seen as “healthy”, it doesn’t mean that it is totally free from harm.

Should I start having a plant-based diet?

The most important thing for our health (both oral and physical) is to have a well-balanced and nutritious diet. This doesn’t mean that you must have a plant-based diet!

While this diet does clearly have a positive effect on our oral health, it is too restrictive for some people.

But what we can all do as a minimum is to add more vegetables to our meals and continue good oral habits. This incudes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, avoiding sugary snacks where possible, and visiting the dentist on a regular basis for check-ups.

What we can offer at Savanna Dental

Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental offers our patients a huge range of services. We provide all of our patients with a comfortable environment, and are situated in a convenient location in Calgary.

Early detection of dental problems is crucial, which is why it is important to attend regular dental check-ups. If further treatment is required, we will provide you with a tailored and effective treatment plan that meets your circumstances.

Summary

As we have shown, plant-based diets do have the potential to be excellent for our oral health. But regardless of the diet chosen, there is no replacement for regular dental check-ups and strong oral hygiene.

We would love you to visit our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental, click here to visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca where you can take a look at the services that are available to our patients.

  • [1] Mazur, M., Bietolini, S., Bellardini, D., Lussi, A., Corridore, D., Maruotti, A., Ottolenghi, L., Vozza, I., & Guerra, F. (2020). Oral health in a cohort of individuals on a plant-based diet: a pilot study. La Clinica Terapeutica. 171 (2), p142-148.
  • [2] United Nations General Assembly. (2011). High Level Meeting on Prevention and Control of Non-communicable Diseases. Available: https://www.un.org/en/ga/ncdmeeting2011/. Last accessed: 14th May 2021.
  • [3] Canadian Cancer Society. (2020). Oral Cavity Cancer Statistics. Available: https://www.cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-type/oral/statistics/?region=on. Last accessed: 9th April 2021.
  • [4] Chainani-Wu, N., Epstein, J., & Touger-Decker, R. (2011). Diet and prevention of oral cancer: strategies for clinical practice. Journal of the American Dental Association. 142 (2), p166-169.
  • [5] Rett, B. S., & Whelan, J. (2011). Increasing dietary linoleic acid does not increase tissue arachidonic acid content in adults consuming Western-type diets: a systematic review. Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism. 10 (8), p36.
  • [6] Staufenbiel, I., Weinspach, K., Forster, G., Geurtsen, W., & Gunay, H. (2013). Periodontal conditions in vegetarians: a clinical study. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 67 (8), p836-840.
  • [7] Järvinen, V. K., Rytömaa, I. I., & Heinonen, O. P. (1991). Risk factors in dental erosion. Journal of Dental Research. 70 (6), p942-947.
The Dental Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
11May
Intermittent fasting has been known for a long time as being an effective approach towards weight loss and limiting calorie consumption. However, there are also several benefits that intermittent fasting can do for our dental health, as we explain in this article.

Intermittent fasting is a type of diet that is becoming increasingly popular. It involves a person adhering to strict phases of eating and then not eating (fasting).

Intermittent fasting typically involves a person using a 16:8 approach, which means 16 hours of fasting and an 8-hour period where a person consumes calories. Other variations include 18:6, or the more extreme 20:4.

Intermittent fasting has been shown to reduce stress, speed up our metabolism, and contribute towards weight loss [1]. It has even been shown to increase our lifespan by protecting against cardiovascular diseases [2].

But as well as these benefits, intermittent fasting also has a positive impact on oral health, as we will be showing in this article. These benefits include lessening harmful bacteria in the mouth, the regulation of pH Levels, and decreasing the chances of gum disease.

Eating and drinking in a way that benefits our oral health is highly-appealing. As a result, intermittent fasting can be recommended as a great diet to benefit oral health. This should result in fewer visits to the dentist.

Dental Benefits of fasting

While most people that engage in intermittent fasting do so for weight loss purposes, there are also many dental benefits of fasting.

If a person eats and drinks throughout the day, sugar will come into contact with the gums and teeth regularly. This causes plaque, which will eventually cause decay and cavities, and over time, gum disease.

Instead, when fasting, the mouth is limited to just a few hours a day of potential damage. Therefore, arguably the biggest benefit to intermittent fasting is the fact that there are fewer hours where the teeth can be damaged from sugar and harmful bacteria entering the mouth.

Saliva is also an important area in oral health. It is important for the pH levels (levels of acidity in the mouth) of saliva to be regulated. Sugary and starchy foods can affect acidity levels in the mouth, resulting in damaging acids affecting the teeth and wearing down enamel. Therefore, intermittent fasting also helps the regulation of pH levels, as there are fewer hours for food and drink to cause acidity.

Indeed, these statements have been backed up by scientific research. Studies have showed that low calorie diets such as intermittent fasting can reduce periodontal inflammation and gum disease [3]. Other research shows that fasting can help to improve chronic dental diseases and even improve the health of the bones in the mouth [4].

Gum disease affects so many people, as do cavities. In fact, statistics show that seven out of ten Canadians will at some point in their life have gum disease [5]. Therefore, it is clear how an intermittent diet can benefit our oral health, though a nutritious diet and brushing our teeth regularly are important too.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

While we do recommend intermittent fasting, it is important to state that this shouldn’t be seen as a replacement for regular dental check-ups.

We always emphasise that early detection of dental problems is crucial. The best way to detect problems is attending regular check-ups.

Our dental clinic Savanna Dental is located in a convenient area within Calgary, Alberta. We do everything we can to take care of our patients, and ensure they have a comfortable experience with us.

When treatment is required, our Calgary-based dental clinic has a wide range of services available to our patients, including regular fillings, root canals, scaling, dentures and many others. We provide a tailored treatment plan for each patient, to ensure their dental needs are met.

Summary

While intermittent fasting certainly has health benefits, it might not be for you. Regardless of the way you consume food and drink, what matters most is that you eat a healthy and balanced diet. This, along with regular dental check-ups and consistent tooth-brushing, can help towards maintaining strong oral health.

We offer dental check-ups and a range of treatments at Savanna Dental – located in Calgary. Click here to visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca, where you can see the various services we have available to our patients.

  • [1] Patterson, R. E., & Sears, D. D. (2017). Metabolic Effects of Intermittent Fasting. Annual Review of Nutrition. 37. p371-393.
  • [2] Mattson, M. P., & Wan, R. (2005). Beneficial effects of intermittent fasting and caloric restriction on the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry. 16 (3). p129-137.
  • [3] Branch-Mays, G. L., Dawson, D. R., Gunsolley, J. C., Reynolds, M. A., Ebersole, J. L., Novak, K. F., Mattison, J. A., Ingram, D. K., & Novak, M. J. (2008). The effects of a calorie-reduced diet on periodontal inflammation and disease in a non-human primate model. Journal of periodontology. 79 (7). p1184–1191.
  • [4] Wulansari, L., Kaboosaya, B., Vo, T. N. N., Ding, L., & Kasugai, S. (2017). The effects of fasting regimen on periodontal tissues. Clinical Oral Implants Research. 28 (14). p162-162.
  • [5] Canadian Dental Association. (2021). Gum Disease FAQs. Available: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/faqs/gum_diseases_faqs.asp. Last accessed: 7th May 2021.
Dental Health After 1 Year of Covid - Savanna Dental
4May
The Covid-19 pandemic continues to affect the world, with over one million confirmed cases in Canada alone. While Covid-19 has caused disruption in so many areas, one of the hidden effects of the pandemic is based around oral health, with health professionals believing that the current situation facing the dental industry is highly-worrying, with one labelling it as a “dental disaster”.

It has been over a year since Covid-19 started to cause havoc across Canada, with restrictions remaining in place to this day. Social distancing, wearing masks and lockdowns have all become part of day-to-day life.

Everyone is aware of the deadly nature of Covid-19, which has caused (at the time of writing) over three million deaths around the world [1]. However, there are also many unseen consequences of the deadly virus. One area that has been heavily affected by the global pandemic is the dental health of the population, with dentists and health professionals warning against long-term oral damage as a result of Covid-19.

“A Dental Disaster”

Such is the damage caused, Dr. Gerhard Konrad Seeberger, the President of the FDI World Dental Federation, has referred to the current situation as “a dental disaster” [2].

Dentists have been speaking about a higher incidence of tooth decay and gum disease since the Covid-19 restrictions began. Causes of this aren’t entirely clear, though increased snacking between meals and poor mental health and associated overeating appear to be potential aggravating factors.

Perhaps the biggest factor has been dental appointment postponements. Unfortunately, the restrictions have meant that many dental clinics have been forced into postponing regular appointments, and instead have been purely focusing on emergency treatments.

Many people have therefore not attended the dentist in over a year, which is leading to an increase in undetected dental problems.

The effects of poor oral health

Statistics show that only 37.5% of Canadians brush their teeth twice a day [3], with many neglecting their oral health. Poor oral hygiene can result in many problems, including physical health problems.

Unfortunately, for many people that have not attended the dentist in over a year, they are likely to be having dental problems. If left untreated, simple cavities can develop into more serious problems.

Then there is gum disease, which the Canadian Dental Association have found will affect seven out of ten Canadians at some point in their lives [4]. Early detection of gum disease is crucial, as the earlier treatment begins, the better the chance of successful treatment. But missing appointments has meant these problems are left untreated for too long.

It is therefore important for us to all consistently brush our teeth at least twice a day, floss regularly, and have a nutritious diet. Ultimately, this can help fight against decaying teeth that can cause many problems.

What we can offer our patients at Savanna Dental

At Savanna Dental we are aware of the problems that the Covid-19 pandemic has had on the population. It is entirely understandable that in a year where we have all been battling to survive, that trips to the dentist may not be considered as an essential thing to do.

But the truth is, delaying dental check-ups can result in multiple problems, as this article has shown. We understand that many people are apprehensive regarding visiting the dentist after a long time away, but we offer a comfortable and non-judgmental environment for our patients.

We are a Calgary dental clinic, and provide services such as fillings, root canals, dentures, scaling and more. We are always happy to help our patients, and will provide an effective and tailored treatment plan to meet their needs.

Summary

We are all aware of the impact caused by Covid-19. But very few are aware of the impact the pandemic is having on oral health. It is now more important than ever before to look after our mouths.

Attending regular dental appointments is crucial, and can keep our oral health strong. We would love you to visit our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental, click here to visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca, where you can see the great range of services available to our patients.

Study Finds Elderly Patients Are Visiting the Dentist Less and Less, With Worrying Consequences - Savanna Dental
27Apr
Various studies have found that as we age, we are less likely to visit the dentist, which has worrying long-term consequences. Many people neglect their oral health, without realising the impact it has on their physical health. Attending regular check-ups is crucial, and can help with early detection of problems. At Savanna Dental, we welcome patients of all ages, and provide ongoing support and a range of treatments for our patients.

As we age, our physical health typically declines, leading to numerous visits to the doctor, multiple medications being prescribed, and other ailments adding to our troubles. But one area that many people neglect as they get older is their oral health, which not only further affects their physical health, but it can also lead to oral pain that has long-term consequences. This is of course avoidable with regular visits to the dentist.

The evidence

A study published in the Journal of Research on Aging found that as patients get older, they become less likely to attend dental appointments [1]. These results were even more pronounced for ethnic minorities.

The study tracked how American adults aged 51 and over interacted with dental services. Almost 90% of those in the study were American citizens, with the remainder foreign-born nationals.

The study found that 70% of respondents visited a dentist at some point in the two years prior to the study, but for those over 80, the rate dropped significantly.

Moreover, the study determined that among immigrants and ethnic minorities, that the number of people who visit the dentist regularly is comparatively lower when compared to American nationals. Similar trends regarding access to dental services in relation to social class also appear to exist in Canada [2].

Why is this?

It is an interesting question – why is it that over 80’s and ethnic minorities are less likely to go to the dentist? The aforementioned study suggests that low awareness of the importance of oral health, lack of access to dental care, and having no insurance coverage are key factors.

It has been well documented how Medicare does not provide support for dental care (click here to read more) – which causes problems for many Canadians. Covid-19 has had a big impact on the finances of most Canadians, which has limited their access further to dental clinics.

Concern over costs have been longstanding around the world, with a study in 2008 finding that many elderly patients weighed up dental costs with functionality and social appearance. They also considered future living costs versus dental costs and finally, whether or not the dental work would be worthwhile in terms of how long they live [3].

As mentioned, ethnic minorities also appear to be less likely to visit the dentist. Similar factors to the above, along with other potential areas such as racial discrimination and language barriers, are likely to explain this.

The importance of maintaining healthy oral hygiene

Something that many people are unaware of is the link between oral health and overall physical health. Therefore, it is very important to attend regular dental check-ups. Gum disease, inflammation and even mouth cancer are just some of the possible complications arising from poor oral health.

A 2017 report published in the United Kingdom found that dental surgeons were becoming increasingly concerned about the impact that poor oral health was having on older people’s general health [4]. The report also confirmed that dental problems were linked to malnutrition and pneumonia in older people.

Perhaps even more worrying, the Harvard Medical School found in 2010 that the chance of having tooth damage severe enough to require a root canal or similarly invasive procedure triples once you’re over the age of 65 [5]. This emphasises the importance of looking after our mouth.

As we always say, early detection is crucial. We really can’t emphasise this enough! What may start out as a small cavity that can be filled easily, could, left untreated, become something more serious where evasive action may need to be taken in the future. So instead of a simple filling, a more complex procedure like a root canal or even an extraction may be needed.

What we can offer at Savanna Dental

Here at Savanna Dental, we welcome everyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or nationality – we guarantee a welcoming and courteous patient experience. We know these are difficult times to visit the dentist, but we aim to provide a comfortable environment for our patients in a convenient location within Calgary.

We are also aware that finances can be an issue. But here at Savanna Dental, we set our prices in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which ensures that our patients have access to affordable healthcare at a competitive price.

We offer many different treatments at our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental. These treatments can be tailored to the varying needs of our patients. Regular check-ups are the best way to avoid problems, though when problems are identified, we have a range of treatments to restore positive oral health for our patients.

Summary

Looking after our oral health is crucial, especially as we get older; with the statistics above showing the potential problems facing the elderly. But by visiting the dentist regularly, we are able to detect problems early, and act appropriately.

As always, brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and eating a balanced and nutritious diet can all help. When you do need help, or want to schedule a check-up, we will be more than happy to assist, check out our website for more https://savannadentalclinic.ca!

  • [1] Zhang, W., Wu, Y. Y., & Wu, B. (2019). Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Dental Service Utilization for Foreign-Born and U.S.-Born Middle-Aged and Older Adults. Research on Aging. 41 (9): p845-867.
  • [2] Bedos, C., Brodeur, J-M., Boucheron, L., Richard, L., Benigeri, M., Olivier, M., & Haddad, S. (2003). The dental care pathway of welfare recipients in Quebec. Social Science & Medicine. 57 (11): p2089-2099.
  • [3] Giddings, L., Mckenzie-Green, B., Buttle, L., & Tahana, K. (2008). Oral Healthcare for Older People: ‘i Can’t Afford Not to Go to the Dentist, but Can I Afford It?’. New Zealand Medical Journal. 121 (1281): p72-79.
  • [4] Royal College of Surgeons: Faculty of Dental Surgery. (2017). Improving older people’s oral health. Available: https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/-/media/files/rcs/fds/media-gov/fds-improving-older-peoples-oral-health-2017.pdf. Last accessed: 23rd April 2021.
  • [5] Harvard Medical School. (2010). The aging mouth – and how to keep it younger. Available: https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/the-aging-mouth-and-how-to-keep-it-younger. Last accessed: 22nd April 2021.
Gum Disease and Covid-19: The Worrying Link - Savanna Dental Clinic
30Mar
People suffering from Gum disease are at risk of developing severe symptoms of Covid-19 should they catch the virus, recent research has revealed. The research suggests that inflammation associated with gum disease can be a risk factor for developing severe symptoms of Covid-19, which has placed an added emphasis on the importance of good oral hygiene.

As Covid-19 continues to cause havoc across the world, scientists continue to learn more and more about the virus. In a rather concerning development, recent studies suggest that gum disease can actually be a risk factor for developing severe symptoms of Covid-19.

We are all aware of the dangers associated with poor oral health – cavities, gum disease, bad breath etc. But something that not many people are aware of is that oral health also contributes to overall physical health. This is evidenced by the worrying link between Covid-19 and gum disease, as we will discuss.

Studies show a link between gum disease and Covid-19

Recent research from the California Dental Association Journal [LINK: http://www.mouthcovid.com/] suggests that gum disease can increase the chances of an individual developing severe symptoms from Covid-19 [1].

The study reviewed common themes across pre-existing Covid-related studies and analysed statistics on gum disease. They were able to conclude that areas associated with gum disease – such as inflammation and high plaque levels – could increase the risk of a person developing debilitating Covid-19 symptoms.

The authors determined that dental care can have a “major impact” on the overall outcome of how a patient copes with the coronavirus [1]. Inflammation appears to be a big risk factor in Covid-19, and the researchers found that inflammation in the gums can be linked to further inflammation in the body.

Another study analysed a cohort of 568 patients in Qatar, including some with mild symptoms, and some that had been hospitalised due to severe complications with Covid-19. The study found that those with severe gum disease were at least three times more likely than those without gum disease to have severe symptoms with Covid-19 [2].

It is well known that the symptoms of Covid-19 can differ significantly from person-to-person [3]. While many people have very mild symptoms that cause little disruption to their life, some people have severe symptoms that can result in hospital admission.

It isn’t entirely known why some people suffer worse than others, although certain risk factors exist that increase the chances of a person suffering badly from Covid-19. One of these risk factors, as mentioned, is gum disease. Poor oral health has also been linked to other physical health problems such as lung problems [4]. This shows just how important good oral hygiene is.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is a common condition, but one that can be prevented, and at the very least, managed. Gum disease typically involves your gums becoming swollen or infected, and may also involve bleeding gums and/or bad breath.

Gum disease is caused by a build-up of a sticky, bacteria-filled substance called plaque. Plaque develops when sugary food and drink e.g., candy or soft drinks are consumed over a length of time. Plaque gradually wears down tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay, and ultimately further problems.

What can patients do?

We are fortunate in Canada to have excellent dental services readily available to us. Whether you are located in Calgary, Montreal or Vancouver, there is a wide range of dental clinics around the country.

Gum disease is preventable. It is important to adopt good oral hygiene, which is the best way to stop gum disease. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and attending regular dentist appointments.

The earlier an issue is detected, the better the chance is of successful treatment. That’s why it is so important to regularly visit the dentist, who will be able to identify any problems, and advise where necessary.

What we can offer

Here at Savanna Dental we know all about the problems facing patients with gum disease. We ensure that throughout their journey with us, our patients are kept well-informed about the condition of their gums. We offer many different services to help patients with a range of oral problems.

Calgary has many different dentists and dental clinics to choose from. When trying to find a Calgary dentist, there are many elements you may wish to consider. At a time when oral hygiene is more important than ever before, it is crucial that you select a dentist that can offer effective solutions that are tailored to your circumstances.

At our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental, we can offer our customers a vast array of services to help them with their oral health. In terms of gum disease, specific treatments that we offer that can help include Oral Exams, and Dental Cleanings.

Summary

Practicing good oral hygiene is more important than ever before. While the link between oral problems and physical health problems has been known for several years, this latest development involving Covid-19 places further emphasis on the importance of oral hygiene.

At Savanna Dental, we are able to provide our patients with many treatments that can aid their oral health. We would love for you to visit our website where we will be happy to help you, and answer any queries that you might have.

Sources

  • [1] Molayem, S., & Cruvinel Pontes, C. (2020). The Mouth-COVID Connection: Il-6 Levels in Periodontal Disease — Potential Role in COVID-19-Related Respiratory Complications, Journa of California Dental Association, October 2020 issue.
  • [2] American Academy of Periodontology. (2021). New Study Links Periodontitis and Covid-19 Complications. Available: https://www.perio.org/periodontitis_COVID-19_complications. Last accessed: 26 Mar 2021.
  • [3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Symptoms of Coronavirus. Available: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html. Last accessed: 26 Mar 2021.
  • [4] Muthu, J., Muthanandam, S., & Mahendra, J. (2016). Mouth the mirrors of lungs: where does the connection lie?. Frontiers of Medicine, 10(1), p405-409.
World Oral Health Day - Savanna Dental Clinic- Calgary Dental Clinic
23Mar
March 20th is the world oral health and dentists in Canada use it to raise awareness of how important is to have a good oral health.

World Oral Health Day was observed on March 20th, which is the date that celebrates positive oral health, and aims to increase awareness of the importance of looking after our teeth.

The day is organized by the World Dental Federation, and raises an important issue. Here in Canada, dental professionals use this date to raise awareness of how crucial healthy oral hygiene is.

Why do we need World Oral Health Day?

The statistics are concerning. A recent study by the World Health Organization found that over 3.5billion people around the world are affected by oral health problems, including caries, gum disease and even oral cancer [1].

An increase in consumption of sugary foods and drinks, high rates of tobacco smokers, lack of access to toothpaste and poor-quality water supplies are among the causes of poor oral health.

On the World Oral Health Day’s website, the organisers state that “Oral diseases are a major health concern for many countries and negatively impact people throughout their lives. Oral diseases lead to pain and discomfort, social isolation and loss of self-confidence, and they are often linked to other serious health issues” [2].

The State of Oral Health in Canada

In Canada, we are fortunate to have excellent dental health facilities available. In fact, Canadians have been listed as having the seventh-best oral health in the world [3].

It is also great that dental clinics are easily accessible in the majority of cities in Canada. From Calgary to Vancouver to Ottawa, there are many different dental clinics available to the public.

But despite the positives, there are alarming statistics in Canada. Statistics show that within a 12-month period, just 75% of Canadians have been to see a dentist, with 38% of the population brushing their teeth at least twice a day. 23% of Canadians are put off from going to the dentist due to the cost involved [4].

Oral Health in Alberta, Canada

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) has implemented some new initiatives for different provinces around the nation. In Alberta, the focus is on increasing seniors’ access to oral health care [5]. But there is also the problem of the younger population in Canada neglecting to visit the dentist, with the number of those under 25 visiting the dentist rather low. So while the CDA is focusing on seniors’ access to oral health care in Alberta, there are significant problems with younger citizens.

Across Alberta, there are many dental clinics available. But many choose to visit Calgary dental clinics, as there is a wide range of choice, with competitive prices and positive customer testimonials.

In Calgary, there are many dental clinics open for customers. Statistics suggest that over 90% of Calgary residents have decayed, missing or filled teeth, underlining the clinical need for visiting the dentist [6].

Visiting the Dentist

Given the statistics above, it is clear just how important it is for everyone to regularly visit the dentist, and maintain good oral health.

At Savanna Dental Clinic, we offer a range of services, such as general, cosmetic, orthodontics and emergency dentistry.

When visiting us, you will receive an excellent patient experience, with our professional staff providing high-quality treatments, advice on oral health, and a high level of support and dental care.

Summary

Ultimately, it is important to remember that oral health is crucial, and is actually a strong part of our overall health. It is also important to remember that oral problems are preventable. As always, it is important to brush our teeth at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, regularly visit your dentist, and use mouthwash when needed.

Having regular check-ups is very important, as this can detect any problems, provide treatment when necessary, and contribute towards healthy oral health

Sources