According to the FDI World Dental Federation, nearly 19% of adults worldwide suffer from periodontitis.[1] Periodontitis is the inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding the teeth, which can eventually lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Prevention of periodontitis begins with understanding what causes this condition to protect your natural teeth, and an experienced periodontist in Rochester is the best resource to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.
While poor oral hygiene and environmental factors are substantial contributing factors, studies have shown that a genetic variation may also cause periodontal disease. If you’re wondering about your own genetic predisposition to this condition, this is what you need to know.
How Genetics Make You More Likely to Develop Periodontitis
Each parent passes on half of their human genome to you. These genes specify your appearance, eye color, and blood type. Sometimes, genes can mutate, leading to inherited diseases and conditions. When these mutations happen in the genes associated with your immune response to bacteria near your gums, you may inherit a greater risk of developing periodontitis.[2]
Genetic factors contribute to gum inflammation, and specific gene variants have been identified as likely risk factors. These factors affect various aspects of your body’s immune response, inflammation regulation, and formation of new tissue. All these components are vital to maintaining gum health.
Genes Connected to Periodontitis
Although research is ongoing, researchers have found 38 genes linked to a greater risk of developing periodontitis.[2] Here are two of them.
IL-1B Gene
The IL-1B gene, or Interleukin-1, is a small protein known as a cytokine that is crucial for the body’s responses to infection and injury.
The slightest variation of this gene could increase the chances of developing aggressive periodontitis without proper and swift treatment.[3] Routine appointments with a board-certified periodontist in Rochester, NY, are crucial for these patients.
FAM5C Gene
The FAM5C gene has been linked to aggressive forms of periodontal disease and is found in patients with cardiovascular disease.[4] What may connect periodontal and cardiovascular disease could be inflammation in the body that affects various aspects of our overall health.
Can a Periodontal Dentist in Rochester Cure Hereditary Gum Disease?
As much as periodontists wish they could work their magic, you can only treat gum disease with prevention, early intervention from a periodontist, and swift treatment for aggressive forms. Following up with your periodontist as needed and managing it at home with treatment as prescribed by your periodontist is crucial to ensuring the health of your gums.
Preventing Hereditary Gum Disease
You may think your fate is sealed when you hear the words “hereditary” or “genetic periodontitis.” If you know you have a genetic link in your family, you can make small changes to minimize your chances of triggering periodontal disease.
Learn About Your Family’s Dental History
Find out whether your family has the genetic link if you can. There are DNA tests that determine whether you are more susceptible than others. You can take a test at home or visit a facility offering these services.
Or you can ask family members about a predisposition for gum disease, which could keep you informed about your oral health and help you manage your dental care more effectively.
Enhance Your Oral Care Routine
Brush your teeth for at least four minutes twice a day and floss twice daily. This will remove plaque and bacteria and prevent inflammation that leads to bone and tooth loss.
Use a soft-bristled brush or even invest in an electric toothbrush; they are more effective at removing plaque than manual ones. If you’re unsure which electric model is the best, ask a periodontist in Rochester what they recommend.
Quit Smoking
Smoking alters gene expression, causing elevated inflammation and a change in immune response. It also prevents your body from fighting off plaque, which results in a more aggressive form of periodontitis.
Quitting all nicotine, tobacco, and e-cigarette products is one of the best things you can do for your oral and overall health. Food will taste better, your lung capacity will improve, and you will reduce your risk of gum disease.
Get Advice from a Board-Certified Periodontist in Rochester, NY
Maintaining good oral health is the best way to manage your predisposition to gum disease. However, you may need guidance from an experienced periodontist in Rochester, NY.
At Dental Implants and Periodontal Health of Rochester, we’re experienced in treating various stages of gum disease and placing dental implants to restore missing teeth. Call us at 585-534-3346 to schedule your appointment.
Sources:
[1] https://www.fdiworlddental.org/gphp
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2850931/
[3] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24585-cytokines
