Do Genetic Factors Influence Oral Health?

Oral Health

Dentists will advise you that practicing good dental hygiene is important to help you keep your teeth healthy and strong. Brushing your teeth regularly, drinking fluorinated water, eating a balanced diet and cleaning between your teeth will help you prevent tooth loss, gum disease, and tooth decay. However, it is important to know that there are genetic factors beyond your control that affect your gums and teeth. Even people who practice good dental hygiene and visit the dentist often to receive good dental care cannot control their genetic makeup.

The role of genetic on oral health and behavior

Dental health problems can run in a family. Not just the ones passed through oral bacteria because of sharing utensils or learnt from your family’s behavior, but genetic dental disorders that are hereditary. This means that even though you avoid your family’s habits, there is a high chance of developing certain medical conditions.
In addition, your behaviors will most likely be determined by your genes. Research shows that genetic factors influence the kinds of foods that you enjoy eating. Also, the way these foods are digested in your body is influenced by your genes. For instance, you have a high chance of developing dental problems if you love eating foods that are not good for your teeth, such as candy. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to your family history and be aware of the weaknesses that you have inherited so that you can look for ways to maintain good dental hygiene. Dentists at Carrum Downs Dental Group always require you to describe the dental health issues in your family to assist them to determine the best course of treatment.

How do genetics affect teeth?

As mentioned earlier, your oral health is influenced by several genetic factors. Regardless of your dental habits, these genetic factors determine how your teeth are aligned or whether you are at risk of getting dental cavities. As much as fluorinated water helps prevent dental caries, your saliva’s chemical composition determines how well the acids from foods and drinks are neutralized so as to prevent the formation of cavities and subsequent decay. Teeth that have large and many crevices or groves because of genetic factors make it easier for acids to infiltrate these areas, which predisposes you to tooth decay. Gum disease is also a condition that is hereditary that makes your gums recover slowly in case of an infection.
To learn more about genetics and oral health, our dental practice at Carrum Downs Dental Group will equip you with the necessary information to practice good dental care regardless of your genes.

Why choose us?

Carrum Downs Dental Group is a dental practice that offers a wide range of family dental services. We put our patients in the middle of our experienced and dedicated team to ensure that both individual and family needs are addressed. Our procedures are based on the latest technologies and modern techniques to ensure that you and your family receive the best care and treatment. We attentively listen to all your needs, provide the best course of treatment, and support you through the process. We strive to give you the value for your money by maintaining high standards that are never compromised.
So what are you waiting for? Make an appointment with us today and learn how your genes affect your oral health.

Related Posts

7 Tips for Improving Your Oral Health Before Sleep Time
Trends in Youth that Can Lead to Oral Health Complications