April is Oral Health Month – A Factual Guide to Oral Care in Canada

Only through comprehensive research can we, as a society, move forward in combating many of the oral health issues that exist within Canada. While our research companies and our research practitioners are making great strides in terms of new treatments, many challenges still exist in helping patients achieve optimal oral care across the country. Within this article, we’ll present a few facts to enlighten our readers on several predominant challenges the oral health industry faces.

57 per cent of Canadian Children between 6 and 11 years Old have had a Cavity

The number of children suffering from dental cavities and decay is rising across the country. We’re now at the point where the majority of children ages 6-to-11 have had a cavity. While there is little conclusive research behind the rise in cavities in children, one possible cause put forth by experts is the changing diet of our young children. Many children are now drinking juices and soda products with high sugar content as well as consuming highly acids foods and drinks that can quickly wear down their teeth’s enamel.  It is imperative parents teach children about oral health from a young age, and begin taking their child to the dentist by age two. This can help combat potential issues with cavities as they grow.

Six Million Canadians per Year Avoid Visiting the Dentist for Economic Reasons

The latest data shows that six millions Canadians will put off that important trip to the dentist simply because they don’t feel that they have the financial resources to pay for treatment. However, we know that oral health care is essential to our long-term wellbeing and so it’s important to work with dentists to ensure affordable care options. Most patients will find that our office extends financing programs for those who cannot pay the full treatment amount during their initial visit helpful.  These programs ensure a simple payment process. It’s important to remember the value and long-term importance of your oral health and to speak with our team when financial elements are the only concern in achieving treatment. There is usually a solution to this type of problem.  Remember too that keeping current with your oral health may prevent small issues from turning into larger and potentially more costly problems!

 

28% of Canadians Floss at Least 5 Times a Week

There are many preventable dental health conditions and flossing is one of the leading preventative measures Canadians can take to improve their oral health. Yet the vast majority of Canadians are still not flossing regularly. Why not purchase floss during a future visit to the grocery store and then begin using the product during your daily dental care regimen? Simply flossing for one minute a day can help protect against a range of oral and systemic health conditions.

By understanding the data and reviewing their own personal oral health regimen, Canadians can take a small yet active role in improving oral health across the country. To learn more, speak with one of our office experts directly!

Dental Health Month in Focus: Three of the Most Common Dental Health Conditions Across Canada

As April is Dental Health Month across the country, we thought we’d provide a series of posts detailing the current climate of dental care in Canada. This first post looks into the three most common dental health conditions suffered across Canada. For Canadians across the country, this information could help prevent oral health issues and ensure comfort during future dentist visits.

1. Gum Disease

As a dental condition, gum disease is difficult to self-measure as it varies in severity from person-to-person. What we do know is that 70% of Canadians will suffer from gum disease at some point in their lifetimes, according to the latest data. This means that there’s still a lot of work to be completed in educating patients on the most important ways to prevent gum disease. Often brushing and flossing twice a day can offer the best defense against this pervasive problem.

2. Oral Cancer

The latest data from 2014 suggest that over 4,300 Canadians were diagnosed with the condition by their oral health specialist. While this makes the problem relatively rare compared to other conditions, it’s one of the most serious in terms of prognosis. We know that tobacco and alcohol consumption are leading risk factors for oral cancer, and Canadians can cut their cancer risks significantly by eliminating or reducing these two habits from their lifestyle. Why not make Dental Health Month your time to quit?

3. Tooth Decay

Not only is tooth decay the most prevalent dental condition in Canada, it’s also one of the most prevalent of all medical and dental conditions, only surpassed in incidence by the common cold. Tooth decay occurs when plaque combines with the sugars and starches of the food we eat. This produces acids which then attack the enamel. By working with their dentist and by committing to their oral health regimen, Canadians can protect their teeth against the many dangers of decay.

By recognizing the leading oral health conditions within our country, we can take preventive steps to resolving them and ensuring effective treatment for the long-term. To learn more, speak with one of our experts directly today!