Gummy Genetics: Is Periodontal Disease Hereditary?

Did you know that periodontal disease is the number one leading cause of tooth loss? Not only that, but if gum disease is allowed to progress to more advanced stages, it can enter the bloodstream and contribute to other serious medical concerns like diabetes and heart problems.

Many lifestyle factors can contribute to the likelihood of developing gum disease, like poor oral hygiene habits or regularly smoking cigarettes. However, there’s also a possibility that you’re genetically predisposed to contracting it. Continue reading to learn more about the connection between genes and gum disease so you can keep your mouth healthy!

What Is Gum Disease?

This condition occurs when plaque forms along your enamel and gumline, allowing bacteria to penetrate and infect the connective tissues that hold your teeth in place. Gingivitis, the earliest stage, is easy to miss because it often doesn’t present with noticeable symptoms, frequently allowing the disease to progress. As it does, your tissues pull away from your enamel, leaving your pearly whites without a firm enough foundation to remain in place.

Is Gum Disease Hereditary?

There are several different ways to contract gum disease, and your DNA is among them. In fact, according to one recent study, up to 30% of the population may have a genetic susceptibility to periodontal problems.

For instance, some people contract a rare form of the disease that occurs commonly among families and causes rapid bone loss around certain teeth. This particular form may be connected with the cytokine response. Our body uses these small proteins to send signals to our cells to perform various functions, like producing the white and red blood cells necessary to fight infections. Individuals with this condition are 20 times more likely to develop advanced periodontitis than those without these hereditary traits.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

Whether or not your lineage leaves you more vulnerable to periodontal problems, there are proactive steps you can take to prevent it, such as:

• Establish an at-home hygiene routine. You should brush and floss your teeth twice daily to remove plaque and bacteria buildup that contribute to oral issues.
• Visit the dentist consistently. Seeing your provider every six months allows them to monitor your condition to prevent potential problems before they can progress.
• Watch what you eat. Sugary foods attract unhealthy bacteria, so try to minimize your consumption.
• Quit smoking. The nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and vapes can damage your enamel, infect your connective tissues, and even cause oral cancer, and should be avoided.

If you notice that your gums feel tender or sensitive, look darker than usual, or are puffy and inflamed, then it’s time to call your dentist!

About the Author

Dr. Alan DeAngelo has decades of experience providing high-quality care to help you build and maintain a happy, healthy smile. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry and has since continued his education, so you can trust that you’re receiving the most current methods. He combines a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate results meant to last. If you’re concerned about gum disease, you can request an appointment on the website or call (708) 854-5912.