• 05 AUG 21
    • 0
    Did I Get My Bad Teeth From My Parents?

    Did I Get My Bad Teeth From My Parents?

    No matter what kind of teeth you inherit, you have the responsibility to take care of them. There is no doubt that your oral health is affected to a degree by your genes. The size and shape of your mouth, along with your bone structure can easily be inherited. Crooked teeth are usually passed down from generation to generation due to genetics, but the bad oral habits of previous generations can end with you. Good oral hygiene will help your teeth be the best they can be, no matter what you inherited.

     

    When Can You Blame Your Parents?

    • Genes control how teeth develop. Occasionally teeth don’t form properly, making enamel less resistant to bacteria. Genes can also influence whether teeth are crooked, which can provide a safe harbor for bacteria because they’re difficult to clean.

     

    • If your parents had poor dental health, then you will likely have problems too. While it’s true that genetics is connected to some oral health issues, it isn’t always the case.

     

    • Crooked teeth are usually inherited, but the bad oral care habits of previous generations are not something you have to replicate. Good oral hygiene will help your teeth be the best they can be, no matter what kind of teeth you inherit.

     

    Oral Health Factors That May Be Genetic 

    Gum Disease

    Gum disease, characterized by sensitive and inflamed gums is linked to decay and when left untreated, can result in tooth and bone loss. Up to 30 percent of the population may be genetically predisposed to gum disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can protect your gums and teeth. If gum disease is a problem in your family, make sure to mention this at your dental appointment with Dr. Angela S. Evanson, DDS.

     

    Oral Cancer

    Thousands of Americans die from Oral Cancer every year. Lifestyle choices, such as tobacco and alcohol use, are the top risk factors for oral cancer, but genetics can also play a role. People carrying certain genetic markers have been found to have a higher risk of developing the disease. You can lower your risk by quitting tobacco, cutting back on alcohol and eating a healthy balanced diet.

     

    Crooked Teeth

    Genetics play a major role in determining the size of your jaw, which can cause crowding, gaps, overbites and underbites. If this is a common problem in your family, make sure to have regular dental appointments with Dr. Evanson. Early treatment can benefit many young patients, allowing developing bones and teeth to grow properly and preventing more serious problems as they get older.

     

    Other Problems May Be the Reason For Bad Teeth

    Other common dental problems, such as tooth decay, are more likely caused by poor oral habits. Tooth decay is almost entirely preventable and is largely due to oral hygiene factors and not your genes. So-called “bad” teeth are almost always a result of bad habits.

     

    Prevent Bad Habits From Causing Bad Teeth

    • Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at bedtime. An oral care routine will significantly reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.

     

    • See your dentist regularly.

     

    • Eat a balanced diet of vegetables, fruits, lean meats and proteins, and dairy products that nourish your teeth.

     

    • Avoid sugary drinks and snacks.

     

    Make An Appointment With Dr. Evanson Today

     If you’re concerned about having “bad” teeth, call (720) 409-0008 or contact us online to make an appointment. Dr. Evanson is located in Parker, Colorado and is easily accessible to the surrounding communities of Highlands Ranch, Aurora, Castle Rock and Lone Tree. We can blame a lot on our parents, but we have to take credit for our own oral health. Call today!

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