Much of the state of your oral health is determined by how well you care for your teeth. If you have poor eating habits and don’t clean your teeth properly, you will experience more complications with your oral health. However, many people wonder if genetics play a role in the state of their current and future oral health. The simple answer is yes.
How Genetics Can Affect Your Oral Health
Most people are aware of medical conditions in their family history that can affect their overall health, but they often don’t realize that genetics are also important for their teeth and gums. Genetics can determine the appearance, placement, strength, and size of your teeth.
The alignment of your teeth is determined by genetics. Unfortunately, if you have teeth that are close together and crowded, food will tend to get trapped between your teeth, resulting in tooth decay. If your parents needed orthodontic treatment to improve the alignment of their teeth, there is a good chance you will as well. Other conditions that can be caused by genetics include:
- Gum disease
- Oral cancer
- Deep grooves in the teeth
- Dry mouth
You Can Determine Your Future Oral Health
Even if you may be prone to certain oral health conditions, it does not mean that is your fate. Many problems can be avoided by being diligent with your oral hygiene routine and staying up to date on your oral hygiene examinations. During visits to our office, we pay close attention to your teeth and gums and monitor any potential problems. If something needs attention, we can recommend the necessary treatment. If you complete treatments as soon as recommended, you can avoid further complications.
If you are in Brunswick, GA or the surrounding area and are due for an oral hygiene examination and cleaning, be sure to contact our office to schedule an appointment. If you have any concerns about the state of your oral health, be sure to mention them to our team. We look forward to seeing you soon!
