True or False: Can Bad Teeth Run in the Family?

Genetics can determine many traits, including hair color, eye color, and even blood type. Can oral health be one of them? Unfortunately, the answer is yes – bad teeth can be genetic. Your genes can affect how your teeth and bone structure develop, meaning sometimes they may not form properly and be susceptible to dental issues. Read on to find out which problems can run in the family and what you can do to maintain a healthy smile.

Which Oral Health Problems Are Inherited?

If certain oral health conditions run in your family, that automatically puts you at a higher risk for developing them, despite your dental care habits. Here are a few issues that can be hereditary:

Periodontal Disease

This condition often presents itself as red, swollen, inflamed, or tender gums. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth and bone loss. Be sure to let your dentist know if gum disease runs in your family, as early diagnosis can prevent it from spreading.

Tooth Decay

Aside from sugar, you can also blame genetics for your cavities. Certain variations of genes are significantly associated with a greater risk of decay in permanent teeth. If your teeth are prone to cavities, make sure you attend routine cleanings and exams so your dentist can catch decay when it’s most treatable. Otherwise, it can aggravate gum disease and might even cause tooth loss.

Oral Cancer

Most people know that tobacco and alcohol are the top risk factors for oral cancer. However, genetics can also contribute to this deadly disease. People carrying certain genetic markers have been shown to have a higher chance of developing cancer. Mention your genetic predisposition to your dentist to aid in early detection and prevent it from becoming life-threatening.

Tooth Color

The color of your smile is determined by your lifestyle, diet, oral care habits, and genetics. If your teeth naturally develop with thinner enamel, they will appear darker or more yellow. That’s because the outer layer of your teeth (the enamel) is a blue-white color, while the middle layer (the dentin) is a light-yellow tinge. As the enamel gets thinner, the dentin becomes more visible, giving the appearance of a darker grin.

Tips to Maintain Good Oral Health

Despite what your genes say, there are several steps you can take to keep your mouth healthy. Follow these tips to maintain good oral health:

• Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily
• Eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet
• Limit your consumption of sugary, fatty, and acidic foods
• Avoid tobacco products and excess alcohol consumption
• Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams

Although some conditions are hereditary, that doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to develop them. With proper dental care and a healthy lifestyle, you can maintain a beautiful, problem-free smile for as long as possible – no matter what your genes say!

About the Practice

At Queen Creek Complete Dental, we provide state-of-the-art, compassionate, personalized dental care that the entire family can enjoy. We use the latest techniques, materials, and technologies to help every patient achieve their best smile. If bad teeth run in your family, we can monitor your oral health during routine checkups and ensure your smile remains healthy and problem-free for as long as possible. Visit our website or call (480) 722-1200 to schedule an appointment.