Even if you regularly keep a good oral hygiene routine, or visit your dentist twice a year, you might still have dental issues that are no fault of your own. You may have begun to wonder, “Can bad teeth run in the family?” While it is true that genetics can affect your smile, it’s still a good idea to understand your family’s dental history so you can overcome these factors in the future! Read on to learn several hereditary oral conditions and their risks.

Gum Disease

Around 30% of the population may be predisposed to periodontal disease. This is usually related to decay and inflammation in the gums, and if left untreated, it can worsen into tooth loss, or even lead to a heart attack. With early detection, you can help prevent the bacteria from growing and protect your gums and smile in the long run. Inform your dentist if a family member struggles with this issue.

Tooth Decay

Certain variations of genes can be the cause of an increased chance of cavities, leading to tooth loss if unchecked. Those with a high risk of tooth decay should seek help from their dentist, who can prescribe toothpastes or mouth rinses to combat the dental issue.

Weak Teeth

It has been revealed that eating habits during the development of your teeth can also influence your dental health. Depending on what you family usually eats can decide whether your smile is naturally weak or not. For example, a lack of calcium in the diet during tooth development can cause a weaker disposition to cavities, while having fluoride has been shown to strengthen teeth and make them more resistant to cavities.

Misaligned Teeth

If you have crooked teeth, then this might be an issue for other members of your family as well. Your genetics typically determine the size and shape of your jaw, teeth, and gums. This can cause crowding, underbites, and overbites, so if this is common in your family, your dentist can provide early treatment during your teeth development to avoid future problems.

Even though certain dental issues can be passed down through generations, it doesn’t mean you can’t improve your condition! By speaking with your dentist, they can help treat your situation so you can achieve the smile you deserve.

About the Practice

At Fort Dental, we deliver exceptional and passionate dental services for all patients. With our three professional dentists—Drs. Cheng, Thorburn, and Luk—we provide a vast collection of advanced treatments, including preventive care to address any dental issues you experience. If you want to know more about hereditary dental health conditions, visit our website or call 817-292-5957.