Have you ever noticed that certain features and traits run in your family? Maybe you have your father’s eye color, or your mother’s nose. But many people wonder if it’s possible to inherit their parents’ bad teeth. While genetics in fact can be to blame for some elements of our oral health, others are more likely to be caused by your environment. Here’s how to tell when it comes to your teeth and gums what’s nature and what’s nurture.
Tooth Color
Sometimes, your teeth can be more yellow than you’d like. While sometimes it’s due to stains or discoloration, thin enamel is a genetic factor that can sometimes make the teeth appear yellow. While you can also damage it by brushing too hard, smoking, and your diet, if you have thin enamel this may affect your tooth shade.
When Teeth Erupt
Most babies get their teeth in the same order, but there’s no specific date they’ll appear in any child. While there is typically a range of when you can expect your child’s teeth to emerge, the exact timing of their debut is genetic. Thus, if either parent was a late bloomer, your children may be, too!
Bite and Alignment
Your bite and the alignment of your teeth is genetic, because genetics determine your jaw size and shape. You can even have the same spacing or gaps in your teeth as your ancestors do, and if you need braces, that’s likely thanks to someone in your immediate family.
Predisposition
If you have a genetic predisposition this does not mean you will experience a particular oral health condition, however it does mean that you should take extra precautions to prevent it. For example, if you have a predisposition for gum disease, you should ensure that you floss daily, brush twice daily, and mention the increased risk to your dentist.
Environmental Influences
In addition to predispositions, you may also experience some environmental factors that seem genetic but aren’t. Cavities, for example, are caused by bacteria in your mouth, however this bacterium can be transferred from person to person by kissing, sharing cups or utensils, and even sharing toothbrushes. Thus, if someone in your household has a high level of oral bacteria, it could easily be transferred to you if you share a spoon! In this type of situation, it may seem like your proclivity for cavities runs in the family, but in reality its actually not genetic, it’s environmental!
Remember, while things like the thickness of your enamel and the spacing of your teeth may have genetic influences, your oral health is up to you. Regardless of any genetic predispositions, many behaviors and habits you may have can make a big impact on your teeth and gums. Thus, to keep your mouth healthy and strong, be sure to brush your teeth twice a day, floss at least once a day, and visit your dentist for your regular biannual exams and cleanings twice a year. If you do have a genetic predisposition to any oral health conditions, please let your dentist know that too, as excellent oral health is a team effort!
About Dr. Chandy
Dr. Moji Chandy is not just a skilled and talented dentist, but she also is a kind, caring, and compassionate one, too! If you have any questions or concerns about any aspect of your oral health, Dr. Chandy is happy to assist you. At Aegis Dental, we understand that your genetics play an important role in your smile, but that environmental factors could require additional intervention when caring for your teeth and gums. Make sure your one-of-a-kind smile is in great hands. Schedule an appointment for your biannual exam and cleaning with Dr. Chandy today by visiting our website or calling 972-492-6700.