When you hear “gum disease,” you likely picture an issue caused by bad oral care. Dentists (rightly) say that infected gums stem from a lack of proper brushing and flossing. Still, the condition is more complex than you’d think; gum disease is also genetic. Infections of the tissues around teeth can partly result from inherited biology, whether from your parents, grandparents, or so on. To learn more, read over the matter in this summary from your San Antonio dental practice.
Yes, Gum Disease is “Genetic”
There’s no question that lifestyle affects your risk for gum disease. However, whether you have specific genes can also make a gum infection more likely.
Current research backs this somewhat surprising conclusion. In a study by the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Dental Medicine, scholars found a link between a gene variant and one’s risk of tooth decay. The latter issue often leads to gum disease, so the association amounts to an oral health risk factor.
Of course, other findings also offer support. Several studies show that gum disease is more common among members of the same family.
Remember to Track Symptoms
Should you have a family history of gum disease, keep an eye out for its common signs. You’ll want to get treatment as soon as possible once you detect the symptoms.
Since gum disease has two phases, it can show a wide range of signs. Those for gingivitis – the first stage – include swollen gums, gum tenderness, bleeding gums, and bad breath. On the other hand, signs of periodontitis are more severe: gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and even tooth loss.
If you show several of the signs above, see your dentist quickly. They’ll help you manage (or even reverse) your infection before things get out of hand.
How to Reduce Your Risk for Gum Disease
While some genes can increase your gum disease risk, specific actions can greatly reduce it as well. Examples of these are:
- Avoid Junk Food: Despite being tasty, sugary and fatty foods can attract harmful bacteria that irritate your gums and form into plaque. Opt for smile-friendly snacks and alternatives instead.
- Practice Good Hygiene: To remove the plaque that causes gum disease, remember to brush your teeth twice daily and floss between them once daily.
- Quit Smoking/Using Tobacco: Tobacco weakens your immune system, so using it can put your gums at greater risk of infection.
- Get Checkups: If you see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, they’ll treat your smile’s minor problems before gum disease can occur.
Gum disease is genetic, to some extent, but it isn’t inevitable. Make sure to use the tricks above to keep your smile safe from it!
About the Practice
Brice Dental is based in San Antonio, TX. Led by Dr. Zachary Brice, our practice is always eager to help your smile thrive for a lifetime. We thus offer preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative dental work, including top-tier periodontal therapy. You can always rest assured that our team will meet your smile’s unique needs! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (210)-903-5565.