NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE, England, May 19 (UPI) -- British researchers said image-conscious young adults tend to worry about their teeth more than older individuals.
Although statistics show younger generations enjoy better oral health than ever, a study by an international team of researchers, led by the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, reveals they are more likely to complain about problems with their teeth and gums than older men and women.
The researchers analyzed results from major dental surveys carried out in Britain and Australia, including those that queried adult participants ages 18 and over about their perceptions of the health of their teeth and gums and the impact on their daily life.
Participants were asked 14 questions about possible dental issues and and were told to rank their answers on a points scale. The higher the score, the worse they perceived the problems to be.
The highest questionnaire score was reported for the group aged 30-49 years, with the participants aged 30 and under getting the second highest score, despite having generally healthier teeth than older adults.
