You may remember back in science class that your genes are responsible for traits like hair color, eye color, and height. However, they can also influence your smile. That means if you have “bad teeth”, you may be able to blame a bit of it on your genetics. Here’s what you should know about this link and how you can make sure your grin stays in great shape.
How Can Genes Cause “Bad Teeth”?
In short, your genetic makeup can affect how your smile looks but also how prone you are to oral health issues. This is a breakdown of several specific ways:
- Tooth Color: Enamel is the protective outer shell of your teeth, and certain inherited developmental conditions can cause it to form thinner than it should. This allows the dentin layer underneath to show through more, often creating a yellow or gray tint.
- Decay: That same thin enamel also leaves your grin more vulnerable to plaque, increasing your risk of cavities
- Gum Disease: Some people naturally have a stronger reaction to bacteria, making their gum tissue more prone to inflammation and irritation.
- Alignment: A smaller jaw can affect how teeth come in, meaning they may become crowded or overlap.
- Oral Cancer: A person’s risk of this condition can increase due to certain genetic markers. Fortunately, regular dental checkups make it possible to catch warning signs early, before they have a chance to progress.
What Should I Do to Protect My Smile?
Even if your genes may lead you to have “bad teeth,” it’s still possible to have a strong, healthy smile. By staying consistent with the right habits, they can go a long way in protecting your teeth and gums. Here are a few things to add to your routine:
- Brush twice a day for two full minutes using a fluoride toothpaste. This will remove plaque on the surfaces of your grin.
- Floss every day to clean the tight spaces your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Avoid habits like smoking, chewing on hard objects, or using your teeth as tools, since these can increase your risk of gum disease or wear down enamel.
- Follow a diet rich in nutrients and vitamins to give your oral and overall health the support it needs.
- Limit sugar when you can, and rinse with water afterward to clear away lingering particles after eating.
Don’t forget to have regular dental checkups and cleanings, as well. These visits help catch small concerns before they become bigger problems. So, you can still have strong teeth even if your genetics say otherwise.
About the Author
Dr. Caleb Goodman earned his dental degree from Midwestern University. He has over a decade of experience that he uses to give patients in Goodyear the high-quality dental care they deserve. Dr. Goodman works to prevent oral health issues from affecting your teeth and gums and ensure they stay in the best shape possible. If you are due for your next semi-annual checkup and cleaning, schedule an appointment or call his office at 623-925-8822.