Here are some questions to boggle your mind. If everyone followed the recommended oral hygiene regime, would no one get cavities? What if every baby stopped sucking on a pacifier after their first birthday, would none of them need braces when older? In an alternate universe, the answer to these questions would likely be yes.
However in our world, your genes play a significant role in determining the characteristics of your teeth—therefore so do your habits.
For instance some people think they won’t get cavities since they prefer savory over sweet. Or, those that floss everyday don’t feel the need for a regular dental check up. Although there are multiple tips and tricks to caring for your teeth and gums, understanding why your DNA impacts your teeth and gums will help you better understand how to adopt the proper oral regime.
Here’s why your DNA affects how you care for your teeth and gums
When mentioning genetics, we’re simply saying you have a certain characteristic you got from your parents, grandparents, etc. Habits, on the other hands, are actions you take daily sometimes without even realizing. For instance, some common dental habits people have are brushing twice a day or after every meal or using their teeth as tools to rip things apart.
Whether they’re good or bad habits, they can greatly impact your dental hygiene if you don’t understand the make up of your teeth and mouth overall and this is how one correlates with the other…
Take a look at your Teeth
The genetic make up of your teeth usually consist of the following:
1. Tooth Shape
There are four types of teeth—the incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Your incisors can look square, round, or somewhat rectangular. The canines we like to pretend are vampire teeth during halloween can be pointier than others. Then you have molars, where some people need to get the third molar pulled out—your wisdom teeth—while others never have them come in at all.
2. Tooth Size
The size of your teeth play a great importance. In fact, its size can tell you a lot about your heritage. Because our teeth are genetic, they’re shaped to withstand our environmental factors, particularly towards the kind of foods our ancestors consumed.
3. Enamel Strength
The outer part of your teeth is called the enamel. Although we’re told that brushing and flossing with keep them strong, the true definition of its strength lay within your genes. Weak enamels are known for chipping easily or being susceptible to cavities as it erodes.
How to shape your dental habits around your genetic make up
How you take care of your teeth severely impacts it’s ability to stay healthy. Which is why knowing the true characteristics of your teeth and gums will actually benefit you in the long run.
1. Pay attention to its shape and size.
The shape and size of your teeth will tell you a lot about how to care for it. Its shape can give you a good indication of what foods you may benefit from most, while its size can really emphasize not skipping a flossing day.
2. Keep an eye on your enamel.
Pay close attention to your enamel’s strength. Understanding how sensitive it is can help you prevent erosion and possible cavities by limiting acidic foods and brushing with fluoride paste.
Dental Summary
Genetics play a crucial role in shaping your teeth and overall oral health. From the size and alignment of your teeth to your susceptibility to cavities and gum disease, your genes influence many aspects of your dental well-being.
However, it’s important to remember that while genetics provide the blueprint, your daily habits and dental care routine are essential in building and maintaining a healthy smile. If you’ve been sticking to the recommended oral routine, it’s time to pay the dentist a visit for a more personalized plan.
Visit a Family Dentist in Walled Lake
Get the best dental care from Dr Hechtman and his staff at our full-service dental clinic in Walled Lake. More than 40 years of experience and a compassionate dental staff ensures you will receive unmatched dental care in all areas dental health. Whether you are seeking cosmetic dentistry to create a beautiful smile, dental treatments to restore your smile or need your teeth cleaned, our dental office in Walled Lake is the perfect choice for all these and more!