Our genes determine our head, face, jaw, and mouth structure. You will have the same jaw size as your parents in several cases. If either of your parents had a specific oral and dental health condition, you might also be more susceptible. These are some of the conditions:
- Oral cancer
- Gum disease
- Misaligned teeth
- Oral deformities caused by genetics, such as cleft palate.
However, just because you have a higher risk of getting one of these diseases doesn’t imply you will. According to the American Dental Association, genetics is only a small puzzle element. Environmental factors rather than genetic factors cause many prevalent oral conditions.
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How Can Genetics Affect Dental Health and Teeth?
Various genetic factors affect your dental health. These genetic variables, regardless of your oral hygiene practices, impact how your teeth are aligned and if you are at risk of developing dental cavities. While drinking fluoridated water can help prevent dental caries, how effectively your saliva neutralizes the acids from food and drink will determine whether cavities and subsequent decay occur. Your risk of developing tooth decay increases if you have teeth with lots of groves or crevices because genetic factors make it simpler for acids to enter these spaces. Gum disease is a hereditary illness that causes your gums to heal slowly after an infection. Furthermore, your genes will most likely influence your behavior. According to research, your preferences in food are influenced by genetic factors.
Additionally, your genes impact how your body digests certain nutrients. For example, if you enjoy consuming sugary foods like sweets, you risk getting dental issues. As a result, it is critical to be aware of your family history and any inherited weaknesses to find solutions to maintain good dental hygiene. To help decide the best course of treatment, the dentists at Smile Dental always ask about any history of oral and dental health problems in your family.
Also Read: Can You Replace Old Fillings? Addressing Concerns About Amalgam Removal
Genetic Oral Abnormalities
The following are some of the genetic abnormalities affecting the oral cavity:
Anodontia
Anodontia, the total absence of teeth, is a highly uncommon condition.
Hypodontia
A person with hypodontia, also known as partial anodontia, has one to five missing teeth starting from birth (excluding the wisdom teeth). Second premolars and lateral incisors are the most common missing teeth. With 1 in 18 people affected, this is the most prevalent hereditary dental abnormality.
Amelogenesis Imperfecta
The enamel, the teeth’s outer layer of protection, is damaged or missing due to this condition. It may also result in malocclusion or misalignment. However, it only affects 1 in 7,000 to 14,000 people.
Dentinogenesis Imperfecta
This disorder results in tooth discoloration or the appearance of translucency. It’s also common for the teeth to be weaker and more easily chipped or broken.
Also Read: Wisdom Teeth Removal Costs
Cleft Lip and Palate
These are oral abnormalities that emerge during fetal development. As a result, the roof of the mouth, the lips, or both are formed improperly.
The following are some of the most beneficial practices for maintaining good dental health:
- Develop proper home care practices, such as brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using an oral and dental health care rinse.
- Use fluoride or xylitol-containing products to help remineralize damaged surfaces.
- Limit foods and beverages high in sugar and carbohydrates.
- Visit your dentist every six months to prevent and treat the earliest stages of gum disease.
Although we are discovering more connections between genetics and oral and dental health, it is crucial to recognize the role of environmental factors in causing oral cavity damage. The main contributing factors to oral health concerns are poor home care, smoking, and a high-sugar diet. As a result, if you are already at a higher risk due to genetics, taking the necessary actions to maintain a healthy mouth is much more crucial. Call orcontact us at Smile Dental in Richmond Hill, Toronto or book an appointment online if you need more information!
