Our family genetics can play a large role in how we develop, age, and the health problems we experience. Genetics are woven into our DNA, making it hard for past problems to be eliminated for future generations, especially when it comes to oral health. Research has shown that there are many different genetic factors that can lead to cavities, gum disease, tooth development, and enamel strength. Your family history may play a larger role in your dental health than you may realize, especially for younger children and infants. Let’s look at how genetics can affect your long-term dental health below.
Increased Risk Of Dental Illness
Genetic factors can be passed down from parents to children in many different areas. Dental health issues like a history of cavities or gum disease may have a higher chance of developing in the children or grandchildren. If parents have a long list of dental health issues, it can be helpful to meet with a dentist early with their children and watch for signs of predispositions early on.
Gum disease is the most common illness in dental health, but oral cancers can also be genetically passed down to future generations. The strength of tooth enamel, genetic markers, and saliva makeup can all affect someone’s susceptibility to dental illnesses.
Misaligned Teeth
The structure of the teeth is another element that is largely influenced by your genetics. Researchers have found that traits of the jaw and tooth growth in parents will contribute to orthodontic issues in their children. Parents who had braces or needed orthodontic surgery are more likely to have children with similar problems.
Common genetic traits like these should be taken into consideration as the child ages. Seeking dental care early can help a child’s teeth come in straighter or correct jaw malformations before they require intense surgery.
Frequent Cavities
Enamel and saliva makeup can affect your dental health, which is largely influenced by your genetics. Some people inherit stronger tooth enamel and a faster saliva production rate. Both of these factors can change your susceptibility to cavities, as soft enamel leads to weak spots in the teeth and less saliva means food particles and bacteria live longer in your mouth. Those who are prone to dry mouth or have frequent cavities at a young age are known to be more prone to them in the future. Other issues like tooth sensitivity and gum irritation can also be connected to genetics and lack of saliva.
Effects On Tooth Development
Just as children inherit traits that affect saliva and tooth structure, they can also inherit traits that affect how their teeth grow, develop, and poke through the gum line. Parents can pass down jaw sizes, tooth positions, and other malocclusions such as overcrowding and underbites.
The timing of the eruption of teeth is also influenced by genetics. Certain genetics may cause children to have missing teeth or develop late. When baby teeth and adult teeth don’t break through the gum line at the right time, it could affect future teeth and lead to abnormal tooth shape.
Timely intervention is the best way to prevent severe issues and help the child’s more permanent teeth come in correctly. Treatment plans can be developed earlier by a pediatric dentist to help correct or prevent oral issues or the need for braces in the future.
Traits That Could Be Linked To Poor Dental Health
Watching for signs of tooth malformations and early signs of dental problems can help your children avoid severe dental problems and frequent fillings. Working with a dentist early on can schedule your child for more frequent checkups, dental sealants, and monitor the child for signs of future problems.
There are signs parents can watch for that may indicate genetics are affecting the future of your child’s dental health. If you notice these, it may be beneficial to speak with a dentist as soon as possible. Some signs you can watch for include:
- Lack of or excess saliva
- Bleeding gums during brushing
- Complaining of pain
- Persistent bad breath
- Facial swelling
- Delayed teething or tooth poke through
- Changes in tooth shape or color
Services From Avenues Dentistry
Our dental office is committed to creating brighter smiles, dealing with dental emergencies, and offering cosmetic dental treatments to help you use your teeth as intended. Avenues Dentistry is a family dentist located in Salt Lake City, ready to provide quality services to those of all ages. We stay up to date on dental techniques and services so that all our patients recieve the best care. From the front office staff to our hygienists and dentist, you will be greeted by a friendly face throughout your appointment. Reach out to us to schedule your appointment today!
