If you look at your smile, you can probably recognize its similarity to someone in your family. You may have your mother’s smile or the same crooked tooth as your sibling or whatnot. Although most dental research indicates that oral health and hygiene is mostly up to you and your habits, there are genetic oral or dental traits that can be passed down.
- Gum Disease – It has been shown that gum disease can affect you more if it runs in your family. However, just because you’re more prone to getting it, it doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to prevent it. Great daily oral hygiene (and not smoking) can usually keep gum disease at bay.
- Cancer – Although many people seem to be developing cancer for unknown reasons, there is still a higher risk of cancer for those who have a hereditary disposition. Some people can smoke cigarettes until they’re 100 and not be affected, but some may develop mouth or throat cancers from simply being exposed to second hand smoke.
- Canker Sores – If you genetically have a weaker immune system, you may be more prone to getting canker sores (and potentially contract more infections if you’re not careful). Having a weaker immune system makes it difficult for your body to fight off ulcers as well as any other bacterial issues.
- Over/Under Bite – Also called Malocclusion (bad bite). Malocclusion is when your bite is affected by too many or too few teeth, or your jaw’s actual shape. Most cases of malocclusion are inherited but can easily be fixed with proper treatment.
- Extra Teeth – Supernumerary teeth are extra teeth that exist in your mouth but haven’t grown out yet. Usually your dentist can treat this very quickly by removing any excess teeth and allowing the regular number of teeth to grow normally.
- Enamel Issues – It is possible to have genetically inherited issues with your tooth enamel. Amelogenesis Imperfecta/Dentinogenesis Imperfecta are disorders that creates issues with your enamel hardening properly or being too weak. Any enamel related issues should be treated as soon as possible.
If you have questions or dental issues, Dr Lorraine Burio of Candlewood Dental Care has been treating patients for over twenty-five years in the New Fairfield, CT area. You can call our office at 203-746-1200 or make an appointment here.