Are Cavities Genetic? The Science Behind Tooth Decay

If you brush and floss daily, you won’t get cavities, right? Wrong. Good dental hygiene is great, but it may not anything to do with your proclivity for cavities. Instead, you can also thank your diet and DNA. While you might be doing all you can to prevent your kids’ cavities without success, there may be other factors at Work.

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Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Tooth decay is the leading chronic condition in America. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 42% of children from ages 2 to 11 have some form of dental decay. While regular oral care can help prevent cavities, many experts believe that the health of your teeth depends largely on your genetics. In fact, it’s been found that genes account for about 60 percent of the risk for tooth decay. Here is some science behind your smile.

Are Cavities Genetic?

A 300-sample case study completed by the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine concluded that variations of the beta defensin 1 gene, or DEFB1, could be the reason some people are more likely to have rapid tooth decay and periodontitis. When DEFB1 is presented perfectly, the gene provides an immune response that helps to protect people from germs. However, the anonymous study found that those with mutations of the gene had more decayed, missing, or filled teeth. Lastly, the study did not control for diet and oral hygiene which are also factors in developing oral disease.

A further study conducted by researchers at the University of Zurich found certain mutations in enamel protein that caused defects in tooth enamel, which resulted in less hardness and a less stable structure. This meant that acid that bacteria produce could more easily attack teeth.

Related: Discoloration of Teeth in Children: 4 Serious Causes for Concern

Genetic Factors at Work

Even if your child has an excellent oral healthcare routine, you may find yourself struggling to keep cavities at bay. The cause could be his or her genetics. According to researchers, the following factors may result in an increased risk for dental decay:

Tooth Enamel – When a cavity develops, it usually begins as a hole in your teeth’s strong outer coating, or the enamel. If you’re genetically predisposed to have less mineral in enamel, it’s essential to get regular dental care as you might be more prone to cavities than patients with harder enamel.

Immune System – It’s true that some people just have a stronger immune system than others thanks to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Those with a better immune system will be better able to fight dental issues related to gum disease, like gingivitis and periodontitis.

Saliva – Believe it or not, your spit can actually determine how well you can ward off the bacteria in your mouth that causes cavities. A 2010 study found that the particular genetic makeup of a person’s saliva can either increase or decrease their risk of developing cavities.

Teeth Shape – The shape of your teeth can affect your oral health. For example, if you have crowded teeth, you may have more trouble flossing and getting rid of plaque, which contains a cavity-causing bacteria. Additionally, bacteria can more effectively hide in teeth that has more grooves, so it’s important to invest in a toothbrush specifically designed to clean those hard-to-reach spots.

Genes or Bad Behaviors?

“So,” you’re probably asking yourself, “if our genes play a role in our proclivity to cavities, what governs the rest?”

Answer: Diet, brushing and flossing frequency, smoking habits, dental care access, and other environmental factors.

Regardless of your genes, which may determine how susceptible your teeth are to decay, the truth is that you can prevent cavities and other dental issues from occurring. Even if you’re predisposed to have an excellent set of chompers, indulging in unhealthy habits will take its toll on your teeth.

Soft drinks, smoking, and sugar are bad for your teeth, but the following less-obvious activities can also lead to cavities:

Snacking – The bacteria in your mouth is powerful–so powerful that it takes just 20 seconds for it to turn a sweet snack into an acid that causes cavities. This is why it’s essential to keep constant sipping and grazing at bay. The less often you snack, the fewer opportunities bacteria will have to feed on the sugar in your mouth.

Not Going to the Dentist Regularly – Most dentists will recommend a biannual visit to keep teeth and gums in optimal health. Even if you brush and floss twice a day every day, skipping your dental appointment isn’t a good idea. In fact, missing just two years’ worth of appointments may do significant harm to your teeth and gums, warranting a deep clean to remove calcium deposits that agitate below the gumline. A dentist will be able to scrape off any tartar buildup from your teeth and identify early dental issues before they become worse.

Snoring and Dry Mouth – People who snore or sleep with their mouth open produce less saliva than those who don’t. This results in a dry mouth, and makes it so teeth cannot be remineralized as easily by saliva.

Preventing Cavities in Children

There are many things you can do as a parent to keep your kid’s grin gorgeous and healthy.

• Teach them the importance of oral hygiene and how to properly brush and floss.
• Make sure they are using fluoride toothpaste.
• Avoid giving them sugary drinks or snacks. Instead, opt for nuts, veggies, fruits, or cheese.
• Take them to their dental appointments twice a year.
• Remind them to brush before school and before bedtime.

Related: 15 Child Dental Care Tips for Healthy Smiles

Despite genetic factors playing a part in your child’s tooth decay, you can help them ward off the bacteria with proper oral hygiene and routine dental visits.