Dental Association and GSK to fight tooth sensitivity

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare (GSK) with the Sri Lanka Dental Association (SLDA) has embarked on a initiative to commission research on dentine hypersensitivity.

Lanka Market Research Bureau Private Limited (LMRB), GSK, conducted an islandwide research study on dentine hypersensitivity in consultation with the SLDA, the national body of the dental profession in Sri Lanka.

Most people ignore tooth sensitivity or develop lifestyle changes to avoid the pain, by changing the way certain food and drinks are consumed or by avoiding them altogether. Victims of the condition rarely understand that tooth sensitivity could become worse, if not treated early.

"This islandwide study was conducted among males and females in the age group 20-64 years and its findings indicated that 28% experienced sensitivity in teeth in the past one year, translating to an estimated 3.4 million people suffering from sensitive teeth in the country. A large number of people do not take any action to treat the problem," a spokesman for the company said.

SLDA President, Dr. Suresh Shanmuganathan said, "We have taken an important step to fight tooth sensitivity. The SLDA and GlaxoSmithKline have a common vision to raise public awareness of dentine hypersensitivity. " "SLDA would take the initiative to educate the public on this issue which can affect the quality of life. The best defence against tooth sensitivity is not to ignore it but getting it screened by a dentist. We are pleased to join GlaxoSmithKline to fight tooth sensitivity and raise awareness about the condition."