Can You Inherit Oral Health Issues? Glen Burnie MD Dentist

Cosmetic Dentist in Glen Burnie, MD

Most serious oral health issues can be prevented by maintaining an effective routine of dental hygiene and in-office care. However, you could be at higher risk for some oral illnesses due to hereditary factors. Awareness and proper treatment can help minimize these risks. Here are a few of the most common oral health concerns that are affected by genetics. 

Tooth decay – One of the most common oral issues, some tooth decay has been linked to a genetic deficiency of a protein called DEFB1. If your parents experienced an unusually high rate of tooth decay, then you may want to be more vigilant regarding your own dental care. 

Oral cancer – Certain genetic factors can increase your risk of developing oral cancer. Our doctor recommends annual oral cancer screening for early identification and treatment. In addition, certain lifestyle choices, such as quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, can help reduce your risk of oral cancer. 

Periodontal disease – Recent research has found that some forms of gum disease may be linked to mutations in genes that affect immunity and inflammatory response.  

Misaligned or supernumerary (extra) teeth – Genetics can play a role in having misaligned or even extra teeth. The size of your jaw is determined mostly through heredity, and is the most common reason for an overbite, underbite, or dental crowding. 

Canker sores – In most cases, canker sores are an isolated reaction to fatigue, stress, or menstrual cycles. However, there are certain inherited diseases that count canker sores among their symptoms. Crohn’s disease and Celiac sprue are two such conditions. 

While you may not be able to avoid hereditary oral health issues entirely, our dentist in Glen Burnie can help minimize or even reverse their effects with proper treatment and care. If you suffer from any of these inherited conditions, contact our dentist in Glen Burnie MD for an oral health evaluation. Our Glen Burnie dentist can help. 

Glen Park Family Dentistry
Phone: (410) 761-1100
633 Greenway Rd. SE
Glen Burnie, MD 21061

“My passion is in making people feel at home when they come to my office. Sure, you may have had bad experiences in the past, or you might be worried about something that’s going on right now, but we are here to help you. Let’s talk about any concerns you might have, use the latest and greatest in technology to diagnose and explain, and then let’s make a plan that fits your goals.

I’m not here just to fix a cavity or pull that achy tooth - I’m here to make your oral health a part of your overall health, and make sure you are smiling your best smile and living your best life.”

- Dr. Christopher Sanginiti

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Office Hours

Monday:8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tuesday:8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Wednesday:10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Thursday:8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Friday:8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Saturday:Closed
Sunday:Closed

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