Poor dental health can be genetic. Genetics can affect bone and tissue structure, causing genetic disorders.
How Do Genetics Influence Health?
An understanding of how genetics work can go a long way in helping you prevent dental disorders. Genetic changes have been linked to numerous developmental disorders, some of which occur in the oral maxillofacial region.
People inherit genes from their parents. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes for a total of 46 chromosomes. A child randomly inherits each pair of chromosomes from their father or mother. According to the CDC, at times, a chromosome mutates, which affects the genetic component of our chromosome. This results in a genetic disorder. When these mutated genes are passed down from parents to children, the mutation can also affect the children. Many disorders are passed on genetically from parent to child, including dental disorders.
Common Genetic Dental Disorders?
According to Frontiers in Oral Health, almost all aspects of oral health are affected to some extent by genes. Thus, if certain dental issues run in your family, you are at great risk of developing them as well.
Here are some common diseases that can be passed on genetically.
Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth can be genetic, but this is not always the case. In most cases, crooked teeth are caused by oral habits. However, research shows that dental anomalies such as large teeth, extra teeth, and bone structures associated with crooked teeth can be passed on genetically.
Periodontal Disease
Research shows that as many as 30 percent of individuals have a genetic predisposition to gum disease. Gum disease is often characterized by sensitive and inflamed gums and is linked to several other teeth disorders, including teeth loss.
Tooth Decay
Some genetic variations are linked to an increased risk of cavities. These genetic factors affect the development of jaws, bones, and teeth in childhood.
Oral Cancer
Cancer is a deadly disease that kills many Americans every year. Genetics plays a minor role in the development of oral cancer, with some genetic markers being associated with a higher risk of developing cancer.
Closing Remarks
Some genetic markers point to poor dental health. Consult with your dentist if you have an oral issue that is bothering you.
Poor dental health can be genetic. Genetics can affect bone and tissue structure, causing genetic disorders.