Not only do you have bad teeth, but so do your parents – and your parents’ parents, and quite possibly your grandparents’ parents. Is there a reason for this, or is it merely one of life’s strange coincidences?

As it turns out, you may indeed be able to blame your poor oral health on your family tree – though your dental hygiene habits should still be considered! Here’s how genetics can affect your smile, and when you might want to consider brushing and flossing more often.

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It Might Be Genetics If…

If you seem to be prone to cavities and gum disease no matter what you do, then the problem could very well be genetic. Researchers have found that your DNA does determine certain physical attributes about your teeth. It can, for example, dictate how thin or thick your enamel and dentin are, the bacteria content in your mouth, and how well your immune system responds to oral threats. All of these things, in turn, play a role in how easily you might develop certain dental problems.

Otherwise, It’s Oral Hygiene

But if you’re not brushing and flossing your teeth on a daily basis, then it’s more likely that the true cause of your cavities or gum disease is poor oral hygiene. A clean mouth is a healthy mouth, and oral hygiene is the number one reason for tooth loss in the US. Even if you do have a genetic disposition for oral conditions, your hygiene habits are still going to be important for helping to prevent dental disasters.

Oral Conditions That Don’t Fall Far from The Family Tree

Without further ado, here are just a few of the problems that genetics can create for your teeth:

Gum Disease

Immune system diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, which can be hereditary in their own right, often increase inflammation in the body. The same inflammation, in fact, that increases the risk of gum disease. The natural bacteria content in your mouth can also contribute.

Cavities

Thin enamel makes it easier for harmful bacteria to “eat” a hole in your teeth. Fortunately, professional fluoride treatments and dental sealants can help!

Misalignment

Your parents don’t directly impact how your teeth grow in, but they do influence the size and shape of your jawbone. A small jaw is more likely to experience dental overcrowding, which can lead to crooked teeth. An overbite or underbite can have a similar effect.

When unfavorable genetics are at play, it’s best to go over your family’s oral health history with your dentist. They can tailor your preventive plan to address these issues and help promote your dental health!

About the Practice

Dr. Gary C. Nawrocki and Dr. Jeff Lineberry are both highly experienced dentists with impeccable credentials. They and their friendly team can help you prevent oral conditions with routine checkups and cleanings, advanced diagnostics, and comprehensive care. If you have poor dental genetics, you can count on them to personalize your preventive treatment. To contact Dr. Nawrocki and Dr. Lineberry’s office for an appointment, call 321-783-7514.