Dental News

Do Your Genetics Affect Your Oral Health? Get the Answer and Find Out What You Can Do

July 7, 2022

Do Your Genetics Affect Your Oral Health? Get the Answer and Find Out What You Can Do If you’re fortunate, you may be one of the fortunate few with decent genes who has never experienced gum disease or a cavity. Even when we brush and floss every day, cavities and gum disease may still happen more frequently than usual for the majority of people.

If you’ve ever questioned why some people, while practicing good dental hygiene, have fewer oral health issues than others. Genetics or a person’s genes may make their teeth more resistant to gum disease or tooth decay.

Typical inherited traits

Many of the traits of your teeth are influenced by the genes that you receive from your parents. The size, color, shape, and alignment of a person’s teeth can all be influenced by genetics. Your dental health may be significantly impacted by these traits.

For instance, having a multitude of teeth that are crooked can make it challenging to brush and floss properly. Gum disease and tooth decay can result from brushing that leaves plaque or tartar behind. The size, form, and spacing between your teeth can also be influenced by your DNA. Your teeth’s function and how well they line up with neighboring teeth depend on how they are shaped.

You may have a bad bite as a result of misaligned teeth, which will make chewing more challenging. Don’t let your ancestry bring you down; a trip to the dentist can often resolve many of these tooth problems.

Tooth enamel

The characteristics and thickness of tooth enamel are also influenced by genetics. The enamel of some persons is thinner than that of others, which increases the risk of tooth sensitivity and fractures. The enamel is our teeth’s first line of protection against the daily abuse we subject them to. Early tooth decay and more cavities may result from a thin enamel that demineralizes more quickly.

Cleft lip, cleft palate, and amelogenesis imperfecta are other genetic anomalies that can have a big impact on dental health. Few percentages of the population are affected by these genetic anomalies. These medical disorders can be treated, though.

Oral cancer

If you go to the dentist for routine checkups and refrain from exposing your mouth to carcinogens like chewing tobacco, smoking, and heavy alcohol usage, you may be able to prevent oral cancer. Genetic changes have been linked to various types of oral cancer, even if these external environmental risk factors are avoided. Tell your dentist if there is a history of mouth cancer in your family. Oral cancer screenings can be done while you’re there.

Call California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to make an appointment if you have any concerns regarding your oral health.

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