Some people never get cavities, while others work diligently on their good oral hygiene habits each and every day yet are still plagued with oral health issues throughout the course of their lives. If you’re in the latter group, you may be wondering why. The truth is that you may not be to blame for your oral health challenges. As it turns out, researchers have found that some oral health issues are, in fact, genetic. Here are a few dental problems that might run in your family.
- Tooth decay: If you have experienced what seems to be more than your fair share of tooth decay, it might be due to variations of the beta-defensin 1 gene. Studies show that families with certain variations of this gene are more likely to experience cavities. This can be the case even if you practice a good at-home oral hygiene routine and visit your dentist on a regular basis. Of course, this is no excuse to ease up on your oral health care. Just imagine how bad it would be if you did! And, fortunately, there are effective ways to combat your propensity for tooth decay. Ask your dentist whether fluoride treatments and/or dental sealants might help.
- Gum disease: Studies suggest that as many as 30% of the adult population in the U.S. might be more likely to experience gum disease due to their family history. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth and bone loss. But it doesn’t have to happen! When caught in the early stages, gum disease is completely treatable. If you’re noticing that you experience problems with your gums – such as inflammation, redness, tenderness, and/or sensitivity – talk to your dentist about ways to alleviate this condition early on.
- Crooked teeth: Research shows that if you have family members with crooked teeth, you’re more likely to have them as well. It’s all related to the size of your jawbone, and that is often determined by genetics. If your jaw is too small to accommodate your teeth, you’re more likely to experience problems associated with that condition, such as an overbite, an underbite, or crowded teeth. If you have children, and either you or your spouse has had to wear braces, chances are that one or more of your children may need orthodontic treatment as well.
- Oral cancer: Genetics also play a role in determining how likely you are to develop oral cancer. Although this form of cancer is usually quite treatable if caught early, it can also be deadly if it’s left untreated. While it’s true that people with certain genetic markers may have a higher risk of developing oral cancer, your personal habits play a huge role in determining whether or not you’ll develop this condition. Specifically, drinking too much alcohol and using tobacco products will both put you in a higher risk category.
If members of your family have experienced any of these conditions, it’s worthwhile to tell your dentist. Even if you don’t have any of these problems now, knowing that you run a higher risk for developing a condition in the future can be valuable information for your dentist going forward.
