How much of your dental health is related to your genes?
If you’re diligent with your oral hygiene routine and still develop dental problems, can you blame your parents for it? On the other hand, can genetics help with dentistry?
Let’s answer these questions and more in this post.
Dental Traits That Can Be Passed Down
According to research, several areas of tooth health and structure can be connected to genetic factors. Here are some of them:
- Tooth Form and StructureStudies suggest that tooth defects are inherited. These genetic traits can lead to malformed teeth or defective enamel. Even the size and number of teeth are linked to genes.Some are born with a complete set of teeth, while others have several missing teeth due to genetic conditions. Examples of these dental anomalies are hypodontia, where 1–6 teeth could be missing, and anodontia, where all teeth are missing.
- Susceptibility to Gum DiseaseIf your family has a history of gum disease, chances are you will become vulnerable to it too.Several gene variants are linked to gum disease. These genes can make a person more susceptible to inflammation due to weakened immunity.Research also suggests a connection between gingivitis and heart diseases, as both can be caused by abnormalities in inflammatory pathways.
- Vulnerability to CavitiesGenetic factors can also affect your risk of developing cavities.For one, how people respond to different sweeteners can depend on their genes. There’s nothing wrong with indulging in sugary treats once in a while, but excessive consumption and poor oral hygiene can exacerbate dental problems.
Understanding Tooth Health Through Genetics
There’s a reason why comprehensive dental examinations involve taking a look at your family’s medical and oral health history. This data gives perspective on how much you’re likely to develop dental problems, the types of issues you might be vulnerable to, and how your mouth will respond to dental treatments.
If your enamel is malformed or your mouth is producing less saliva due to genetics, you can become more prone to infection, damage, or tooth loss. By knowing more about your health background, your dental team will be in a better position to provide the care that you need and assist you in maintaining good oral health.
Keeping Your Teeth Healthy Despite Genetic Influences
While inherited traits can impact the appearance and health of your smile, there’s a lot that you can do to keep it in great shape.
Your actions have power over genetics and are a significant contributor to how your teeth function. Paying attention to your diet and lifestyle gives you a significant chance of maintaining good oral health.
Medical history doesn’t have to define your oral health. Follow our blogs for more information on how you can protect your smile against common dental problems, or contact our team today to schedule an initial consultation with a dentist in Toronto, ON.
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- Phone: 416-531-2761
- Email: [email protected]
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- 608 Bloor Street W
- TORONTO, ON M6G 1K4
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Hours
Happily serving the communities of Mirvish Village and The Annex.
- 608 Bloor Street W
- TORONTO, ON M6G 1K4
- Phone: 416-531-2761
- Email: [email protected]