No, genes do not cause gum disease, so you will not automatically develop oral health problems solely because your mom, dad, or grandma experienced them. According to the American Dental Association, no single gene is known to pass down gum disease or other oral health diseases. Instead, the ADA says environmental and personal factors like poor oral hygiene are the top contributors.
But many people are genetically predisposed to gum disease, putting them at a higher risk of developing oral health problems, regardless of how well they brush and floss their teeth. Even loyal brushers and flossers adhering to the twice-daily rule implemented by the American Dental Association may find themselves battling oral health concerns if their parents did.
Understanding Tooth Decay and Genetic Predisposition
My family dentist explained the connection between genetics and tooth decay at my last visit. I was shocked by the information that I learned.
After eating or drinking, bacteria collect on the teeth. Plaque enjoys a meal of tooth bacteria and consumes whatever it finds on the teeth. Plaque leaves an acid behind that can severely damage the teeth, including the deeper layers. Removing bacteria and plaque from the teeth significantly reduces the risk of tooth decay, but for people predisposed to oral health issues, it may not be enough.
A University of Pittsburg School of Medicine study concluded that some people are more susceptible to tooth decay because of the way their bodies respond to the bacteria. Scientists believe that people some people have a harder time fighting off plaque-causing bacteria, leading to greater risks of tooth decay and cavities.
The European Federation of Periodontology says that genetics is also a risk factor for developing periodontitis, although additional research is needed to determine if an actual gene causes it. Thus far, scientists have identified 38 genes associated with an increased risk of periodontitis, including the FAMSC gene, which is linked to aggressive periodontal disease and implicated in cardiovascular disease.
Genetics may not directly cause cavities and tooth decay, but it certainly has a strong influence on our oral health. The good news is that anyone can take steps to protect their teeth and gums and prevent existing conditions from worsening.
How to Take Care of Your Teeth & Gums if You Are Predisposed to Oral Health Problems
If you suspect a genetic predisposition to gum disease or other oral health concerns, use the following information to help implement intervention strategies ahead of problems. The information can also benefit people battling the beginning stages of more serious oral health complications.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brush and floss your teeth twice daily, once when you wake up and again before you go to bed. Use a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste when you brush.
If you can sneak an extra brushing in after lunch, terrific. Gently brush your teeth for at least two minutes each time. Everyone benefits from brushing and flossing their teeth, however, for those predisposed to gum disease, it is even more vital.
Schedule Regular Dentist Visits
Visiting the dentist twice per year is the best way to keep your teeth in tip-top condition and prevent tooth decay and oral health diseases. At each dental visit, your dentist examines your teeth, mouth, and gums, and can correct any potential problems before they worsen.
Tooth cleaning is also provided during each visit. Tooth cleaning removes discoloration, bacteria, and plaque from the teeth, giving you an added layer of protection against tooth decay and oral health concerns.
If dental problems arise between visits, do not wait to address the issue at the next visit. Schedule an extra appointment and keep your teeth healthy.
You Are What You Eat
A healthy diet is important for healthy teeth and gums. Consuming drinks and foods with high acidic content or sugar, especially if you are prone to oral health problems, leads to tooth decay.
Additionally, research shows that obesity is linked to periodontal disease. A diet lacking in nutrients can make it harder for your immune system to fight off bacteria that lead to tooth decay.
Stop Smoking
Quitting smoking is beneficial to our overall health, including our oral health. According to the ADA, smoking is one of the top risk factors for periodontal disease. Kicking the habit reduces the development and progression of periodontal disease.
Additionally, when you kick the habit, discolored teeth no longer cause concern. Smoking often turns the teeth yellow or brownish colored and causes bad breath, issues you no longer face if you no longer light up.
Blog Summary
A brief summary of information highlighted in this blog post:
- Genetics can increase a person’s risk of gum disease, although no single gene ‘causes’ it to occur. Instead, environmental factors play a more significant role in the health of teeth and gums.
- Family history impacts your oral health. If your parents, grandparents, or other family members have a history of gum disease, you are at a higher risk.
- Variants in interleukin genes have been linked to an increased risk of periodontal disease. These genes affect how your body responds to gum inflammation.
- Environmental factors significantly impact teeth and gum health. Smoking, a poor diet, and improper hygiene can all increase the risk of developing gum disease.
- Visit your dentist twice a year for personalized treatment for your specific oral health concerns. Regular dental visits reduce the risks of gum disease.
- Consider genetic testing, which helps dentists identify signs that indicate a higher risk for gum disease.
Take Care of Your Teeth
Genetics may not directly cause gum disease or periodontitis, but it does impact the risk of developing the conditions. If you want to protect your oral health or experience symptoms indicative of gum or periodontal disease, call Chestnut Hill Dental. The caring team of dental professionals can provide you with comprehensive treatment that helps you recover and enjoy years of good dental health.
This is a guest blog entry.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Your comments are welcome.