Did you know that one in eight adults has sensitive teeth? According to a new survey published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, one in eight people has over-sensitive teeth.
Dentists in the 37 United States dental offices studied asked their patients if they had recently suffered pain, sensitivity or discomfort in their teeth or gums. Of the 787 patients surveyed, 12% experienced sensitivity that was not due to another problem, such as a cavity, chipped tooth or swollen gums.
“The condition is impacting people’s lives, and they may avoid some foods,” said a research assistant professor at the University of Washington and lead study author, Dr. Joana Cunha-Cruz. “But it’s not like they are feeling pain all the time.”
Pain is often triggered by cold, hot, sweet, or acidic food and drink.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Sensitive teeth occur when tooth enamel or cementum, the tissue between the tooth and gum, wear away. This exposes small tubes connecting nerves inside the tooth to triggers outside the tooth, like the aforementioned cold, hot, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.
“It’s hard to generalize, but probably for people that are visiting the general dentist, one in eight have sensitive teeth that is bothering them,” said Cunha-Cruz.
Who is at Risk for Sensitive Teeth?
Quite simply, everyone is at risk, though certain groups are at an increased risk. These groups include:
- Adults between 18 and 44 were 3.5 times more likely than older adults to have sensitive teeth.
- Women are 1.8 times more likely than men to have sensitive teeth.
- Additional at risks groups include: those with receding gums and those who perform at-home tooth whitening.
“Teeth sensitivity is universal, but some people and cultures could be more at risk depending on their diet, if it is very acidic, and if they drink a lot of wine or alcohol,” said Dr. Richard Trushkowsky, associate director of International Aesthetic Dentistry at New York University.
Are you one of the 1-in-8 adults suffering from sensitive teeth? If so, Leikin & Baylin Dental Care of Catonsville, Maryland can help.
If you have any questions about Sensitive Teeth or wish to schedule an appointment, please contact Leikin & Baylin Dental Care of Catonsville, Maryland by calling 410-747-1115 or visit CatonsvilleDentalCare.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
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