Are Your Bad Teeth Written in Your Genes? How They Just Might Be

When it comes to genes, you may only think about how they determine your height, eye, and hair colors. But did you know that your smile also depends on your heritage? That means that “bad teeth” can run in your family. However, your parents can’t take all the blame. Continue reading to learn more about how genetics plays a role in your grin.

What Is Genetic When It Comes to My Oral Health?

It might sound odd that you can inherit “bad teeth,” but the reality is a bit different. The truth is that you can be predisposed to certain dental problems. That means that you are at a higher risk of some issues. For instance, you won’t be born with cavities, but you might develop them more easily than those around you. Here are the factors that can be affected by your genetics:

• Enamel: The outer layer of your teeth may be naturally thinner. This can make your teeth look more yellow because of the dentin underneath. Additionally, you may have a higher risk of tooth decay. Enamel is meant to protect your teeth, so when it is thin, bacteria can more easily erode it and attack the inner layers.
• Misalignment: Biology can also affect the size of your jaw, which influences whether your teeth are crowded or have gaps. You may also have an overbite or underbite, depending on your jawbone. Chances are, if other people in your family need braces, then you might as well.
• Oral Cancer: This is possibly one of the scarier-sounding conditions that has a minor link to genetics. Those with certain markers in their genes are at a higher risk of developing this disease. The good news is that preventing it is relatively easy.

How Can I Take Care of My Teeth?

While you can point some fingers at your parents, all the blame isn’t on them. You are the one in charge of your oral health, so it’s important to take good care of your smile, especially if you know you are predisposed to certain dental issues. Thankfully, these simple tips make it very easy to keep your teeth strong:

• Follow Proper Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice and floss once daily to help get rid of harmful bacteria in your mouth. For added freshness, rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash.
• Be Mindful of Your Diet: Eat a balanced, nutritious diet to keep your body healthy. By limiting sugar, you can reduce your risk of cavities.
• Quit Bad Habits: Using tobacco and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can cause oral cancer. Avoid these habits to help prevent getting this life-threatening condition.
• Have Routine Checkups: Your dentist is here to help you keep your smile problem-free. They are trained to see the signs of many dental issues and take action if there is anything worrying.

It’s true that “bad teeth” can run in your family, but that doesn’t mean you can blame poor oral health on your parents only! Be sure to follow these steps above to give yourself the greatest chance of keeping your grin strong.

About the Author

Dr. Henry Lu earned his dental degree from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. He is passionate about making sure you don’t have to worry about dental problems through consistent preventive care. By going to him for routine checkups and cleanings, you can ensure he catches any issues early before they become serious. If it’s time for your next visit, schedule an appointment or call us at (469) 998-9822.