Any dentist will be quick to tell you that good habits like brushing and flossing can greatly reduce your risk of cavities. But what if you try to take good care of your teeth and yet you seem to get diagnosed with a new problem every time you go in for a checkup? If any of your relatives have a similar experience, you might wonder if bad teeth run in families. In this blog post, you will learn how your genes may affect your oral health.
Your Genes and Bad Teeth
Your genetic makeup can make you more vulnerable to certain oral health problems. For example, some people have naturally weak teeth, which makes them more prone to breakage and wear. Others may be predisposed to cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, or dental misalignment. If, despite good habits, you find that you are always running into such dental problems, there is a good chance that your genes are partially at fault.
Genes can also have a profound effect on your overall health and even your preferences, both of which can impact oral health. For example, there is a genetic component to diabetes, which increases the risk of oral health problems like dry mouth and gum disease. You might also be “pre-programmed” to crave sugary foods, and overindulging in sweets can easily damage your teeth.
Family Influence
Even if your genes are not the reason for your dental difficulties, your family can still have a great impact on your smile’s health. Very often, family members pick up habits from one another, and those habits are not always beneficial. Smoking, a poor diet, and inadequate oral hygiene habits are a few examples of how this holds true.
What Can You Do?
While you cannot change your genes, some things are within your control. Here are some steps that can reduce the risk of damage to your smile:
- Visit your dentist regularly. They can treat issues like cavities and gum disease before they become too serious.
- Adapt your routine. During regular cleanings, you can ask your hygienist for tips on how to care for your teeth at home. For example, if you tend to develop cavities, you might benefit from a fluoride mouthwash to supplement your usual routine.
- Make careful dietary choices. Try to focus on nutrient-dense foods that support oral health, such as those that are rich in calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin C.
- Talk to your family members. By learning about the oral health of your family members, you can notice patterns and mentally prepare for — or take steps to prevent — issues that might affect you.
Your genes can affect your teeth, but that does not mean you are powerless! Do all you can to preserve the health of your precious smile.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Michael Rose is a highly accomplished dentist who has completed training from prestigious organizations such as the Kois Center and the Misch Implant Institute. He and our team enjoy helping patients of various circumstances, and we provide care in a nonjudgemental environment. If you would like to learn how we can help you achieve or maintain your oral health, contact our Las Vegas office at 702-459-8998.