Are Cavities Genetic?

In the Know for You to Know

As parents we want our children to inherit the best from us. Yet so many of us have thought, “please please don’t get my teeth.”

You’re doing everything you can do to prevent cavities for your child. Sometimes you feel that it’s not enough. Now you’re thinking something else is going on. Well, you’re right!

For the numbers person in you, 42% of children from 2 to 11 years of age have some form of cavities according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. In addition, dental research on cavities have found that genes account for 60% of an individuals cavity risk.

My Child’s Cavities Are Genetic?

Cavities have gone hi-tech. The University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine conducted a study that found a variation of the Beta Defensin 1 gene (or DEFB1) could account for why some are more likely to have rapid cavities and gum disease. Sounds plausible? Yes, but more needs to be evaluated because the initial study didn’t look at diet and oral hygiene.

While dental genetics is in its early stages there is a lot of research going on looking at genes controlling tooth structure development and environmental factors.

The Genetic Link

There are 4 areas that researchers say genetics apparently influences cavity development —

Tooth Enamel — This is the tooth’s outer most layer and is supposed to be the strong coating protecting against breakdown. Genetic alterations in the mineral content or mineralization process increase risk of cavities.

Saliva — Saliva plays a big part. It affects the process for key nutrients like calcium and phosphorus on teeth, as well as how it controls the natural bacteria in the mouth. Gene variations make some people better at controlling this than others.

Tooth Shape — Teeth are all different shapes and sizes. Some are crowded together, some are really groovy. The tighter teeth are together and the more nooks and crannies teeth have, the more difficult it is to keep those hard to reach places clean.

Immune System — Immune system for the mouth? Your mouth has naturally occurring bacteria and how the body responds to it affects the teeth and gums.

What’s The Other 40%?

Here’s the long and short answer — diet, snacking, brushing and flossing habits, infrequent dental visits, smoking and vaping, snoring and dry mouth.

Snoring and dry mouth? When someone snores or sleeps with their mouth open they produce less saliva and develop dry mouth and dry teeth which affects the minerals in tooth enamel. Remember, even if genetic factors contribute to your child’s risk of cavities you can help to reduce the risk with good diet, good snacking habits, regular dental visits, no smoking or vaping, talking to your Pediatrician about snoring, and good oral hygiene.

Do you think your child has inherited your teeth? Email us at kidstoothhotline@protonmail.com or Like us, Message us, Chat with us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kidstoothhotline Let us know, we’d love to hear from you!

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!