Are “bad teeth” hereditary through generations?
What is hereditary when it comes to dental health?
“Bad teeth” are not necessarily hereditary, but bad habits often are. It’s up to you to break the bad cycle. How many times have you heard, “I have bad teeth from my mother (father)”? If your parents had poor dental health, you’re likely to experience similar problems. Genetics can be linked to some oral health issues, but it’s not a rule. Most aspects of your oral health are, to some extent, influenced by genes. The size and shape of your mouth and bone structure are hereditary factors. Misaligned teeth and jaws are usually passed down through generations.
How do bad habits affect dental health?
Poor oral care habits from previous generations don’t directly cause bad teeth. Good oral hygiene will help your teeth be the best they can be, regardless of what kind of teeth you inherit.
When can you blame genetics?
Misaligned teeth or crooked teeth are often caused by genetics. The size of the jawbone can lead to bite issues and may also cause painful problems with the jaw joints. While some problems are genetic, there’s a lot that can be done. Modern treatments can help overcome these genetic factors.
How does genetics affect oral health?
Several oral health conditions can have a genetic basis, putting you at a higher risk of developing issues despite good habits. For example, crooked teeth provide a safe haven for bacteria because they are harder to clean.
Find out if your relatives have any of the following conditions: gum disease (periodontitis), tooth decay, oral cancer, weak teeth, crooked teeth. Up to 30% of the population may be genetically predisposed to gum disease. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can greatly protect your gums and teeth. If gum disease is a problem that has affected your family, be sure to inform your dentist.
Regarding oral cancer, genetics can play a role, but to a lesser extent. Lifestyle choices have a much greater impact. Alcohol and tobacco consumption increase the risk, but you can reduce it by quitting smoking, lowering alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet.
