Up to 40% of the population suffers from tooth sensitivity.
There are a number of different groups of the population who suffer from tooth sensitivity, these include;
- Over enthusiastic brushers
- Those with periodontal problems
- Bulimics
- Persons with Xerostoma
- Individuals regularly consuming acidic food and drink
- Older people with gingival recession
- Smokers.
All of these can present with similar symptoms and really require professional diagnosis since the optimal treatment for each group can differ. In total it is believed that up to 40% of the adult population experience some level of sensitivity. A typical cause of tooth sensitivity is due to exposed and open dentine tubules in the teeth, find out more about how tooth sensitivity is caused here.
Remineralisation is a naturally occurring process where the saliva containing Calcium and Phosphate is in a dynamic equilibrium with the tooth surface. If the pH level in the mouth drops below 5.5, tooth mineral will be dissolved from the tooth surface.
As the pH returns to above 5.5 the situation is reversed and Calcium and Phosphate from saliva combine to form Hydroxyapatite on the tooth surface. If the tooth surface is predominantly Fluorapatite this process occurs at a slightly more acidic level at pH4.5.
Consequently Fluorapatite development (the process found in BioMin® F toothpaste) has the benefit of reducing the rate at which teeth suffer from acid attack.