Let's Find Out If Bad Teeth Are In The Genes
Are bad teeth hereditary? Can I inherit dental problems from my parents? We get these kinds of questions all the time. While there is some merit to the idea that you inherit oral health issues from your parents, the fact is that you have a lot of say over how your mouth turns out. In the information below, we will look over the factors that lead to dental problems to determine how much of a role your genes play in your smile's success.
Defining "Bad Teeth"
Before we can get into the genetic backing of bad teeth, we have to define what bad teeth really are. There are several categories of dental problems to look into, including:
- Overcrowding
- Tooth Decay
- Cavities
- Staining
Let's look at each of those individually to decide what's your fault and what's not.
Overcrowded Teeth
Overcrowded teeth can in fact come from your parents. Their dental structures will provide a general blueprint for your mouth from birth, and there's not a whole lot you can do about that. You can have teeth extracted and use braces or Invisalign to straighten your teeth, but you cannot change what you are inherently given when you are born. Any issues that immediately spawn from overcrowded teeth can in fact be considered hereditary.
Tooth Decay And Cavities
Tooth decay and cavities both come from a lack of proper dental hygiene. Even if you have overcrowded teeth, getting them cleaned twice a year at the dentist should fix any plaque buildup you leave behind. If the main source of your dental problems is dental decay, your habits are to blame and not your parents'.
Staining
If you have yellow teeth that look like your parents' yellow teeth, that may just be because you drink similar drinks or maintain similar brushing habits. With proper care, your teeth will have enough enamel to fight off against many forms of staining. If you avoid dark drinks that could cause you teeth to stain over time, basic brushing will keep your teeth looking white. Your parents may not have taught you how to brush your teeth well when you were a child, but your stains are not the result of your genes. They are again the results of your habits.
Conclusion
For the most part, bad teeth are not hereditary. They wear down and discolor because of a general lack of care. Do your best to promote proper dental hygiene for your children in the future, and you won't bring about another generation of bad teeth in your family.