Over the last few years, studies have been conducted and published confirming a genetic component to the health and hygiene of dental care—from the positioning and shape of teeth to the amount of saliva regularly produced. Although brushing, flossing, and utilizing mouthrinse daily helps to prevent tooth decay and periodontal diseases, people are often curious to learn how much of an oral cavity’s health relies of genetics.
Many aspects of oral health are components of genetics. Hypodontia, the absence of teeth; Oligodontia, the missing of 6 or more teeth; and Anadontia, the complete lack of teeth may all be genetic mutations inherited as family traits. The condition of missing teeth may be referred to as teeth agenesis and rarely occurs in general. Other elements, such as the position of teeth and surface crevices, also remain, in part, inherited attributes. Misaligned teeth and teeth with excess surface crevices allow for the growth of bacteria, the accumulation of sugars, and the increase of harsh acids in difficult to reach places, thereby increasing the probability of cavities and periodontal diseases.
Saliva, also influenced by hereditary traits, affects the mouth’s natural ability to fight cavities. Certain conditions and medications required to treat hereditary illnesses, like depression or diabetes, often have side effects such as dry mouth. Saliva helps to neutralize acids and naturally fight bacteria with healthy enzymes. Without a normal regulation of saliva, teeth are likely to decay more rapidly while gums are likely to recede.
No matter how genetics affect your teeth, dental health, and mouth, it is vitally important to your overall well-being to maintain that beautiful smile. Brushing, flossing, and using mouthrinse regularly will help to ensure a clean and immaculate smile. But visiting the dentist twice annually helps to preserve a healthy mouth and body. Visit Dr. Ash at Studio Dental Care today or make an appointment for a routine cleaning, teeth bleaching, or to consider oral appliances to help treat sleep apnea or teeth grinding conditions. Dr. Ash and his team of professionals treat patients in the Burbank, Studio City, Toluca Lake, and Sherman Oaks areas. With a wonderful team of hygienists, dentists, and customer service representatives, sustaining the natural beauty of teeth proves easy and painless.
By Alexander Ash, DDS
Dr. Ash is the founder of Studio Dental Care. He earned his Doctorate at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry, followed by two General Residencies at New York-Presbyterian / Weill-Cornell Hospital and the UCLA Sepulveda VA Hospital.