Tag: oral health

Researchers have recently developed a small dental device that has the potential to tackle the ongoing obesity epidemic. The device is placed in the mouth, and aims to boost weight loss by restricting the wearer to a liquid-only diet. Early evidence suggests this exciting development could be highly-effective.

Obesity continues to be a growing problem around the world, with various medications, mechanisms and surgeries previously being used in an attempt to tackle the problem – but nothing really has ever proven to be wholly effective, nor inexpensive.

However, a new device that targets weight loss through being placed in the mouth could be a revolutionary way of treating obesity. This device has been created based on significant research, and a study into its effectiveness produced positive results.

The device is called the “DentalSlim Diet Control”, and works by restricting the wearer of the device to a liquid-only diet, with the idea that this can lead to rapid weight loss.

What is DentalSlim Diet Control?

Researchers from the University of Otago in New Zealand and the United Kingdom worked together to develop the DentalSlim Diet Control weight-loss device [1].

The device is described as an intra-oral device that is fitted by a dental professional between the upper and lower back teeth.

The device doesn’t allow the person to open their mouth more than about 2millimetres. The device therefore restricts the individual wearing the device to a liquid-based diet.

Crucially though, the device has no adverse effect on breathing, and the speech of the person wearing the device is not affected by it. The device uses small magnets with bespoke locking bolts to keep it in place.

The lead researcher from the study – Professor Paul Bunton – said that the device is “non-invasive, reversible, economical and an attractive alternative to surgical procedures”. Bunton went on to state that there were “no adverse consequences” with the device [2].

While the device might be seen as being somewhat dangerous, DentalSlim Diet Control can be released in the case of an emergency.

How effective is DentalSlim Diet Control?

While longer-term studies are needed to be assured of its effectiveness, the first study into DentalSlim Diet Control produced positive results.

A trial was done in Dunedin, New Zealand. The study involved seven healthy, albeit obese, participants. All seven adults were fitted with the device, and were then given a liquid diet for 2 weeks.

The results were positive – with the average weight loss being 6.36kg in the 2-week period. An assessment at the end of the study found that the majority of the participants were motivated to continue using the device to try and achieve further weight loss.

The Problem of Obesity

Obesity doesn’t only affect physical health, it is also associated with poor dental health, and worsening mental health.

Research shows that 1.9billion adults worldwide are overweight, with 650million people obese. Moreover, weight-related illnesses result in approximately 2.8million deaths per year [3].

Worryingly, estimates suggest that 57% of the world’s adult population will be either overweight or obese by 2030 [4].

Obesity contributes towards conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, gallstone disease, arthritis and more.

Many people turn to gastric bypass surgery in an attempt to lose weight, though long-term effectiveness of this surgery is still undetermined [5].

Others choose to use specific diet plans like intermittent fasting(click here to know more), low-carbohydrate or plant-based(click here to know more). Some even resort to taking dangerous pills that are marketed as miracle weight loss pills on rogue websites.

But the specific diets mentioned above require consistency and commitment in order to see results, and therefore often do not work [6].

Often, obesity causes psychological problems too such as self-esteem problems and potential embarrassment. It can also be associated with the binge-eating element of the eating disorder Bulimia, or the activity of over-eating that is seen in some cases of Depression.

Effects of obesity on dental health

Obesity is most-commonly caused by a poor diet. A poor or unbalanced diet would typically feature food and drink that are high in sugar, fat and calories.

A poor diet can cause gum disease, while sugary foods can wear down the enamel of a tooth. Over time, a cavity will form, which then requires a filling. If left untreated, the mouth can eventually become infected.

Lower levels of obesity would certainly benefit dental professionals, with the rising obesity levels causing a large increase in the work that needs to be carried out. Supply has been unable to keep up with demand in recent months.

What effect could DentalSlim Diet Control have?

The early signs are very positive. By ensuring that a person can only have a liquid diet, the number of calories being consumed can be limited.

While some have questioned whether or not a liquid diet can be nutritious enough, studies show that when used correctly, that a liquid diet can indeed be healthy [7].

Furthermore, surgeries like gastric bypass surgery are very costly, and highly unpleasant to go through.

Therefore, DentalSlim Diet Control can be a very effective device in tackling obesity. The study’s lead researcher Professor Paul Brunton describes “compliance” as the “biggest barrier to successful weight loss”. The nature of DentalSlim Diet Control would ensure that this wouldn’t be an issue.

It is recommended that the device would be used primarily by those that need to lose weight before a surgery, or for those with a long-term condition like diabetes. If needed, users can repeatedly go through phases of wearing and then not wearing the device.

But it could also be used by anyone aiming to lose weight. Weight loss has been shown to result in better self-esteem, longer life expectancy, and better general health and wellbeing [8].

From a dental perspective, such a device would also surely have positive effects. The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a “dental disaster”(click here to know more)– which has resulted in enormous levels of untreated oral problems and gum disease in recent months. Because of this, there is a huge demand for dental services. Preventing a sugary diet can lessen the chance of many needing dental procedures.

What we offer our patients at Savanna Dental

Here at Savanna Dental, we offer our patients a range of services. We provide a relaxing and comfortable environment for our patients in a convenient location within Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

It is important for us all to adopt strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, having a nutritious diet, and attending regular dental check-ups – usually at least twice a year.

Early detection of any oral problems is important. Therefore, attending regular check-ups is of significant importance. Any problems that are found can be treated effectively. The sooner that problems are spotted, the easier they can be treated.

Whenever further treatment is needed for our patients, we provide a tailored treatment plan that fits their circumstances, whilst giving them a voice in their treatment.

Among the services offered at Savanna Dental include regular check-ups, cavity fillings, root canals and dentures among other services. We also offer some cosmetic dentistry treatments too, such as teeth whitening.

Our Calgary-based dental practice also adheres to the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which means we offer affordable and transparent care to our patients.

Summary

Obesity continues to be a big problem, and has a clear link to poor oral health. Whether or not the DentalSlim Diet Control will prove to be effective in the long-term remains to be seen. However, it could have a revolutionary effect.

Regardless of its effectiveness, we all need to continue to practice excellent 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 see the range of services and treatments that we offer our patients.

• [1] Brunton, P. A., Ratnayake, J., Bodansky, H. J., Mei, L., Veerasamy, A., & Hall, R. (2021). An intraoral device for weight loss: initial clinical findings. British Dental Journal. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-021-3081-1.
• [2] University of Otago. (2021). Researchers develop world-first weight loss device. Available: https://www.otago.ac.nz/news/news/otago830110.html. Last accessed: July 3rd 2021.
• [3] Hirwar, R., & Mondal, P. R. (2019). Prevalence of obesity in India: A systematic review. Diabetes Metab Syndr. 13 (1), p318-321.
• [4] Kelly, T., Yang, W., Chen, C. S., Reynolds, K., & He, J. (2008). Global burden of obesity in 2005 and projections to 2030. International Journal of Obesity. 32 (1), p1431-1437.
• [5] Sansone, R. A., McDonald, S., Wiederman, M. W., & Ferreira, K. (2007). Gastric Bypass Surgery: A Survey of Primary Care Physicians. The Journal of Treatment & Prevention. 15 (2), p145-152.
• [6] Haemmingsson, E., Johansson, K., Eriksson, J., Sundstrom, J., Neovius, M., & Marcus, C. (2012). Weight loss and dropout during a commercial weight-loss programme including a very-low-calorie diet, a low-calorie diet, or restricted normal food: observational cohort study. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 96 (3), p953-961.
• [7] Brown, M. R., Klish, W. J., Hollander, J., Campbell, M. A., & Forbes, G. B. (1983). A high protein, low calorie liquid diet in the treatment of very obese adolescents: long-term effect on lean body mass, The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 38 (1), p20–31.
• [8] Haslam, D. W., & James, W. P. T. (2005). Obesity. The Lancet. 366 (9492), p1197-1209.

Scientists from the University of Washington have developed a lozenge that supposedly has the potential to repair our tooth enamel and even whiten teeth over time. Clinical trials are due to be launched soon, in a development that could improve oral health enormously.

The majority of us will admit to having a sweet tooth. Chocolate, candy, fizzy drinks – they taste good; but their high sugar content comes at a cost – with significant harm being done to our teeth whenever they are consumed.

But in an exciting development, scientists from the University of Washington have potentially found that a specially-designed lozenge – similar to a mint – could actually regrow our enamel.

In the past, the focus has always been on preserving enamel, rather than restoring it. Scientists and researchers have spent decades trying to find a way of restoring enamel [1], which would have a huge benefit on the world’s oral health.

Enamel is the hard surface of a tooth that gradually wears down over time when exposed to sugary foods and drinks and harmful bacteria. When it wears down, it exposes dentine – which is yellow in colour.

The University of Washington’s Research

Scientists from the University of Washington recently provided a press release which provided key information on their plans and their discovery [2]. This work has been going on for several months.

The scientists have said that they have developed an experimental lozenge that has the potential to regrow teeth enamel, strengthen our teeth and even whiten them at the same time!

So how does it work? The lozenges are coated with a genetically-engineered peptide. In easier to understand language, this is essentially a mint coated with a specially-designed protein building block.

The idea is that these building blocks will bind to the user’s teeth, which will involve a tiny layer of fresh enamel being added to the teeth. Over time, this will allow tooth enamel to regrow.

The peptide used comes from something called amelogenin, which is an important protein in teeth enamel. Phosphorus and calcium ions are also ingredients within the lozenge.

Researchers have suggested that two lozenges a day can rebuild enamel, while one per day can enable a healthy layer of enamel to be maintained. The researchers have suggested the lozenge will be suitable for both adults and adolescents.

Tooth whitening benefits

One of the most exciting parts of this news is that these lozenges would help to whiten our teeth. We all aspire to have pearly white teeth, though this is something that in the modern age is hard to maintain naturally.

Many people resort to purchasing teeth whitening strips in an effort to whiten their teeth. While this can work effectively, in some cases these whitening strips can actually do more harm than good [3].

One of the most important things when considering cosmetic dental work is to use a reputable provider that meets all relevant safety regulations. There is significant hope in the future that these lozenges will be able to whiten teeth.

But in the meantime, here at Savanna Dental, we offer a range of cosmetic dentistry treatments, including professional teeth whitening! Whitened teeth can be achieved in just one visit, providing effective results.

Dental veneers and dental bonding are two other options that can improve the appearance of our teeth. These are other cosmetic treatments that we provide at our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental.

Will the lozenges work?

Currently, it is too early to state whether or not these lozenges will be effective. While this is certainly an exciting development, this is far from the first time a “miracle solution” in dentistry has been promoted [4].

The next step is for clinical trials to be held. They will be launched soon as a way of testing out the lozenges in a real-life situation. This will take time, but hopefully the results will be positive.

Researchers have tested the lozenge with success on extracted human teeth and live rats and mice.

While the lozenges are the current focus of scientists – the long-term plan is to create a toothpaste for over-the-counter use, and potentially a gel. But there is no clear timetable on this.

The potential of this development is enormous, with poor oral health resulting in gum disease, tooth decay and bad breath. Poor oral health continues to be a big problem around the world, with research showing that approximately 90% of the world’s population has some form of periodontal disease [5].

What should we do for our oral health?

The most important thing we can do for our dental health is to attend regular check-ups. The earlier that problems are detected, the higher chance of treatment not becoming too complex.

When left untreated, what can start as a cavity that requires a standard filling can turn into a more complicated problem, which may require a more complex procedure like a root canal.

It is therefore important to adopt strong oral health, which involves brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly and making healthy decisions in our personal lives such as avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake.

Our diet is also important. We recently discussed on our blog about the link between a deficiency in Vitamin C and gum disease(click here to read more)– which highlights the importance of a nutritious and balanced diet.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

We have a dental clinic in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Here at Savanna Dental, we provide our patients with a comfortable and caring environment. We recommend that our patients attend check-ups approximately once every six months.

We provide a range of services for when treatment is required after a regular check-up. In each case, we provide personalised advice to each patient, and ensure we provide them with treatment that fits their individual circumstances.

Here at Savanna Dental, we adhere to the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which allows us to provide affordable care to our patients across our wide range of services.

Summary

Dentistry continues to made great strides in research, and this latest development certainly has the potential to dramatically improve oral health for people all over the world.

But it is important to remember that having strong oral hygiene is the best course of action to take, regardless of any future developments.

We recommend that you take a look at our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca where you can find out more information about us and the services we offer at our Calgary dental clinic.

• [1] Seow, W. (2014), Developmental defects of enamel and dentine: challenges for basic science research and clinical management. Australian Dental Journal. 59 (1), p143-154.
• [2] University of Washington. (2021). Trials begin on lozenge that rebuilds tooth enamel. Available: https://dental.washington.edu/trials-begin-on-lozenge-that-rebuilds-tooth-enamel/. Last accessed: 11th June 2021.
• [3] Gookay, O., Mujdeci, A.,& Algin, E. (2004). Perooxide Penetration into the Pulp from from Whitening Strips. Journal of Endontics. 30 (12), p887-889.
• [4] Washington Post. (1993). This Chewing Gum helps repair teeth. Available: https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/wellness/1993/03/30/this-chewing-gum-helps-repair-teeth/5ad7c7d3-3753-4aaa-bc3e-8874857a4537/. Last accessed: 12th June 2021.
• [5] Pihlstrom, B. L., Michalowicz, B. S., & Johnson, N. W. (2005). Periodontal diseases. Lancet. 366 (9499), p1809-1820.

Research has shown that a Vitamin C deficiency can cause bleeding gums, which is an early warning sign of gum disease. When we increase our intake of Vitamin C, these problems are reversed. It is therefore crucial that we consider our Vitamin C intake, as this can have several benefits for our oral health.

Having bleeding gums presents both short and long-term problems. Aside from being unpleasant, bleeding gums are also usually a sign of gingivitis, which is an early stage of periodontal disease – better known as gum disease.

While having bleeding gums doesn’t necessarily mean that a person has gum disease, it is often an early warning sign, with gum swelling typically the other main symptom to look out for.

Gum disease is actually very common, with research showing that approximately 90% of the world’s population has some form of periodontal disease [1].

If left untreated, bleeding gums can result in gums pulling away from the teeth, which will eventually result in tooth loss and bone problems.

In the past, most dental professionals have treated bleeding gums by advising patients to simply brush and floss more regularly. But while this might help to an extent, it doesn’t treat the underlying causes.

But recent research shows that a main cause of bleeding gums is a Vitamin C deficiency. This interesting research suggests that by increasing our Vitamin C intake, we have the potential to improve our oral health.

What is the research?

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Washington has found a link between a Vitamin C deficiency and bleeding gums [2].

To do this, the researchers analysed the results of 15 clinical trials across 6 different countries that had revolved around nutrition, diet and general health. These 15 trials involved 1,140 “mostly healthy” participants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Health and Nutrition Examination Survey of 8,210 US citizens was also used as part of the research.

The results showed that individuals with low Vitamin C levels in their bloodstream were far more likely to suffer from bleeding gums. Most importantly, the researchers also found that increasing daily intake of Vitamin C can reverse the issue of bleeding gums.

This research also backed up previous work that had been done in the subject area. This included a study that reviewed 14 previous studies that had analysed Vitamin C intake and the subsequent effect on the gums. Like the above study, this research found that those with a lower Vitamin C intake had a higher chance of having periodontal disease [3].

In fact, a diet with a regular deficiency in Vitamin C can lead to oral side effects as soon as within 60-90 days [4].

What you need to know about Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the many vitamins that the body requires to function at an optimum level. It is also known as ascorbic acid.

Vitamin C serves many functions in our body, including helping to protect cells and keep them healthy. It also strengthens bones, and is crucial in aiding the process of wound healing [5].

As established above, a lack of Vitamin C can cause bleeding gums, though other signs exist too. These include slow-healing wounds and swollen joints [6].

If the body doesn’t get enough Vitamin C on a consistent and regular basis, the life-threatening condition Scurvy can eventually appear.

Should I consume more food with Vitamin C?

Based on the results of this study, we would certainly suggest that there are benefits to consuming more sources of Vitamin C.

Foods that are high in Vitamin C include citrus fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit), broccoli, red bell peppers, blackcurrant and strawberries.

Vitamin C supplements are widely available, and can be a good way to ensure we get the recommended amount of the vitamin. This is a particularly useful intervention for those who have diets low in Vitamin C.

But as we always say here at Savanna Dental, while it is important to eat a balanced diet, it is crucial that we maintain strong oral health. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and making healthy lifestyle decisions like avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake.

What we offer at Savanna Dental

The most important thing is to ensure that you attend the dentist for regular check-ups. The earlier that problems are detected, the easier treatment will be.

When problems are detected, we are able to offer our patents a range of services at our dental clinic in Calgary. Whether it is purely an examination, a filling or more complex procedures like a root canal or dentures, we are able to provide the treatment that our patients need.

We offer our patients a relaxed and comfortable environment at our Calgary-based dental clinic, and are able to provide tailored care to each of our patients.

Here at Savanna Dental, we adhere to the Alberta Dental Fee Guide, which allows us to provide affordable care to our patients across our wide range of services.

Summary

Consuming more Vitamin C can be useful for many reasons. It certainly appears to help our oral health, with the research consistently showing that an increased intake of Vitamin C can stop bleeding gums.

This is useful advice, though it is important to maintain excellent oral hygiene. An important part of this is to regularly visit the dentist. Our dental clinic in Calgary is an excellent place to do this.

We recommend that you take a look at our website https://savannadental.ca, where you can read more about us and what we offer to our patients.

• [1] Pihlstrom, B. L., Michalowicz, B. S., & Johnson, N. W. (2005). Periodontal diseases. Lancet. 366 (9499), p1809-1820.
• [2] Hujoel, P. P., Kato, T., Hujoel, I. A., & Hujoel, M. L. A. (2021). Bleeding tendency and ascorbic acid requirements: systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Nutrition Reviews. nuaa115
• [3] Tada, A., & Miura, H. (2019). The Relationship between Vitamin C and Periodontal Diseases: A Systematic Review. International journal of environmental research and public health, 16 (14), p2472-2483.
• [4] Levine, M., Katz, A., & Padavaity, S. J. (2005). Vitamin C. In: Shils, M. E., Shike. M., Ross, A. C., Caballero, B., & Cousins, R. J. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 10th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. p507-524.
• [5]. NHS. (2020). Vitamin C. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-c/. Last accessed: 29 May 2021.
• [6] Galimberti, F., & Mesinkovska, N. A. (2016). Skin findings associated with nutritional deficiencies. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. 83 (10), p731-739.