We all know how genetics transfers along with the issues linked with it.
Research shows that genetic factors cause 60% of tooth decay. Poor oral health is quickly passed on to the family. When a woman is pregnant, her oral condition is passed on to the child and plays a vital role in the baby’s development.
This article will help you know genetics’ role in oral health and what you need to know.
Understanding oral health and genetics
Several aspects impact tooth development, such as gum disease, tooth decay, or even cancer. People don’t even know how genes play a role in the development of oral health along with care, diet, consumption practices, etc. Based on the study, it has been found that 47 areas of the genome are connected with tooth decay, and also analyzed, gum disease does have genetic signatures. Moreover, immune system capability is also passed on to the generation. A low immune system means less ability to deal with oral problems. That is why it is always recommended for the dentist to know about the condition of your oral health.
It is not like only genetics play a role. How you take care of your oral hygiene also significantly impacts the condition.
Key genetic factors
There are genetic factors that influence the dental health, and these include-
Alignment and strength of teeth
The enamel strength comes from the generation. Strong enamel is less susceptible to decay and reduces the chances of cavities, especially when exposed to sugary or acidic food items. Genetic factors also influence the shape and alignment of the tooth. If the parents or grandparents have cracked or jaw misaligned, it passes to the generation. For example, the incisors, canines, and front teeth exhibited a variety of shapes, and genes impacted their size, width, curvature, and alignment, which define the unique characteristics of an individual smile.
Amelogenesis
Amelogenesis imperfecta is a genetic condition resulting in missing or defective tooth enamel, malocclusion, sensitivity, breakage, and rapid teeth wear. Moreover, the enamel structure is also genetically inherited from the parents and describes the strength of the teeth. A child with weak enamel can develop tooth decay as they age. This happens because an abnormal keratin gene structure is linked, influencing the development process. The central genes include-
AMELX, FAM83H, and ENAM- encode essential proteins for enamel formation.
KLK4 and MMP20- these are responsible for degrading the organic factor in enamel maturation. This process is essential for enamel to reach its mature stage and become strong.
The mutation in these genes resulted in the lack of protein production, making enamel thinner than usual and discolored. At present, more than 14000 to 16000 children in the US are impacted by hereditary dental disease.
Hypodontia
Tooth agenesis is a broad term that encompasses three distinct conditions: hypodontia (1 to 6 missing teeth), oligodontia (more than six teeth are missing), and anodontia (missing all permanent or primary teeth). These conditions, which are influenced by genetics, can disrupt the normal development of a child’s oral structure.
It’s important to note that hypodontia, which causes one to six missing teeth, is often associated with other syndromes, like cleft lip. If the parents experience a similar situation, the chances are high that it will also transfer to the children due to the genetic link to tooth agenesis.
This condition significantly interferes with the child’s ability to eat and speak and increases the chances of an inadequate jawbone growing.
Saliva production
Genetic factors play a significant role in determining the size and function of the salivary gland. Some children may inherit the genes that produce low saliva production, resulting in issues like xerostomia (dry mouth)- saliva, a crucial protective layer that washes away the bacteria and maintains oral health. A dry mouth, with its increased bacteria, can lead to tooth decay. Furthermore, some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to tooth decay, as their saliva cannot neutralize the acid production in the mouth, allowing bacteria and plaque to thrive.
Periodontal disease
Rather than men, women’s oral health plays a significant role in the dental health of the child. Caries are complex and multifactorial and are directly linked to overall health. Genetics plays a huge role in controlling periodontal structural integrity. The gene variation impacted 30% to 50% of the periodontal problems. The immune factor interleukin-1, a cytokine, is responsible for the inflammatory response.
Importance of genetic testing
Understanding that genetic testing can help identify the genetic markers contributing to susceptibility to dental issues is essential. Through this, you can identify the contributing factors that can result in dental problems. Based on the chances of issues, your dentist can recommend the steps to protect your teeth from problems. Personalized dentistry has the potential to enhance oral health outcomes, and this includes-
- More precise and effective care
- Can improve the prevention steps
- Earlier intervention
- Customized plan based on the genetic profile
- Long-term oral health management
Moreover, several personalized prevention and treatment strategies are available in the market, such as genetic mutation, customized plans based on that, therapeutic approaches, and many more. It is always good to consult with a dentist, as they can guide you through every step.
Bottom Line: Get yourself Checked
If you don’t want to share dental issues with the next generation, it is better to start practicing healthy habits. Early check-ups play a vital role in controlling problems. Also, start implementing healthy lifestyle options, like avoiding smoking and drinking, maintaining a proper rich diet, regular brushing and flossing, and many more.
These practices help you protect your teeth and influence the children to do the same. Advanced technologies hold personalized dentistry and promise additional care advancement and outcomes. If you have any queries or doubts regarding the impact of genetics on dental health, contact Elite Dental Group.