Every cell in the human body consists of 23 pairs of chromosomes, and each has one from our parents. Each chromosome contains thousands of DNA gene sequences, some of which are active or expressed while others are dormant. Whether a gene will be expressed or not is established by factors including time, the environment, and cell type. The control of gene expression is vital for the progress and physical development of a person. While your parents may give you things like eye color or height, you could have also gotten dental problems.

Yes, you read that right – even dental problems can run in the family. And it’s not really just learning bad habits from your family or passed on oral bacteria by sharing drinks. Many oral health conditions develop from a genetic basis. This means that you may be at greater risk for developing certain conditions, in spite of your good oral hygiene habits.

To get a better picture of your risks, ask your relatives if there is a history of any of these conditions:

• Periodontal (gum) disease

  Roughly 30% of the population may be genetically predisposed to gum disease. Described by irritated and swollen gums, it is a common problem that is linked to decay and, if it is left untreated, it will inevitably result in tooth and bone loss.

  Early diagnosis and treatment can make a difference in protecting your gums and teeth. And if gum disease is a problem your many of your family members have struggled with, make sure to inform your dentist.

• Tooth decay

  Have you noticed that you tend to have cavities? You might be able to blame your ancestors. Certain variations of the gene beta-defensin 1 (called DEFB1) are connected to an increased risk of cavities in permanent (adult) teeth.

  If your children are at high risk for cavities, discuss sealants and fluoride treatments with their dentist. Adults that have a higher risk of tooth decay might benefit from prescription toothpaste or mouth rinses. Of course, it’s important to have regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and exams. If left untreated, tooth decay can worsen gum disease and ultimately cause tooth loss.

• Oral cancer

  This disease is deadly and is responsible for the deaths of thousands of Americans every year. Although lifestyle choices, like tobacco and alcohol use, are the top risk factors for oral cancer, genetics can also be a minor cause. People that have certain genetic markers have been found to be more prone to developing the disease.

  You can lower your risk by quitting tobacco, drinking less alcohol, and eating a well-balanced diet.

• Crooked teeth

  If you need braces, it’s more than like that you’re not the only one in your family. Genetics plays a huge role in the size of your jaw – which means genetics also play a role in causing crowding, gaps, overbites, and underbites.

  If crooked teeth are a common problem in your family, don’t hesitate in reaching out to an orthodontist for your children. Early orthodontic treatment can be very beneficial for many young patients. Since they’re still growing, it allows their developing bones and teeth to grow in properly. This can prevent other more serious problems from developing down the road.

• Cleft lip (or cleft palate)

  This is a common birth defect that occurs when the sides of the lip and roof of the mouth are not fused together properly. Genetics can be a factor, especially since babies of Asian, Latino, and Native American descent have a high chance of being born with a cleft. Children whose parents themselves had cleft lip or palate are at risk of being born with one as well.

What can you do?

While genetic testing may potentially help you predict future oral health problems, but your dentist can help you during your exam. X-rays and other procedures are some of the best ways to understand our current oral health status and help us with what may be coming in the future.

It important that you have an active role in preventing dental disease and keep your mouth healthy. If you are interested in learning more about how you can improve your oral hygiene, schedule an appointment today with Foothill Dental Care in Livermore to get started on your journey to a healthy mouth.