When it comes to maintaining one’s overall health, it’s not uncommon for patients and doctors to consider health history. The health, appearance, and overall condition of your parents’ and grandparents’ teeth could offer a realistic glimpse of what oral health concerns you may have. If this worries you, it shouldn’t. While you may be prone to one or more of the dental concerns your family members have, such as gum disease or crooked teeth, knowing what to be aware of and prepared to seek treatment is key. Here’s what to know about genetics and your smile – and what you can do about it.
How Your Genetics Affect Your Teeth
Bodily features and health conditions aren’t the only things that run in families. Did you know that the appearance and condition of your parents’ mouths could be an indicator of how your oral health will play out over time? It’s true. Here are a few ways in which your genetics could affect your smile and dental hygiene.
- Tooth Decay: Some people may brush and floss perfectly only to discover they are still prone to developing cavities. In these cases, genetics are likely to blame. The gene beta-defensin 1, in particular, may be the cause of some people’s tooth decay, which can be passed from one generation to the next.
- Gum Disease: While periodontal disease is usually associated with poor oral hygiene habits, your family’s health history could determine whether you are more likely to develop gingivitis. Specifically, if your parents or grandparents have diabetes.
- Oral Cancer: Lifestyle choices, such as tobacco use and alcohol consumption, can play a role in people developing oral cancer. However, genetics can, too. According to the American Dental Association, genetics aren’t entirely to blame for oral mouth conditions. Rather, it’s a mix of environment and genetics. For this reason, it’s always a good idea to see your dentist regularly for oral cancer screenings.
- Crooked Teeth: Your genes often determine what your teeth will look like. If you want to see what your teeth will look like without orthodontic intervention, look at your parents’ teeth. If one of your parents has a small jaw with large teeth, you may have an issue with overcrowding. Likewise, if one of your parents has a large jaw, you may have gaps between your teeth.
No matter what oral conditions you may be predisposed to, visiting the dentist every six months is the best way to ensure minor dental concerns don’t progress into major ones. Seeking treatment sooner rather than later is key to saving yourself time, money, and comfort. Furthermore, it ensures your mouth stays healthy and beautiful for many years.
Don’t Blame Your Parents for Your Crooked Smile
If you inherited orthodontic problems your parents suffer from, don’t fret. An imperfect smile doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Fortunately, there are many options to improve the appearance of your crooked smile. Before you invest in a certain type of orthodontic treatment, it’s important to learn about your options to find the one that best suits your individual needs. While there are numerous types of orthodontic options available now, here are the three most common options.
Teeth Straightening Options
Metal Braces
When most people think of orthodontics, they immediately envision traditional metal braces. Metal braces are indeed effective at solving an array of orthodontic problems, including overcrowding and jaw alignment issues. Metal brackets are individually glued to the person’s teeth, held together by a metal wire that can be adjusted to move their teeth over time. They cannot be removed and are typically worn for around two years. Metal braces are adjusted every four to six weeks in an orthodontist’s office and are slightly uncomfortable after each adjustment.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work the same way that metal braces do, except their brackets are ceramic rather than metal, making them slightly less noticeable. With both metal and ceramic braces, it’s important to avoid particularly hard or chewy foods. This prevents cavities and damage to your braces.
Clear Aligners
Clear braces are made from BPA-free, clear plastic trays that slowly move a person’s teeth over time. Furthermore, clear aligners should be worn at least 22 hours a day, although they can be removed to eat and clean. People love clear braces for being more discreet, convenient, and affordable than metal or ceramic braces. They are typically worn between 12 and 18 months and don’t require any lifestyle changes.
Achieve a Smile Makeover with ALIGNERCO
There’s no need to live with a crooked, imperfect smile forever. With a plethora of cosmetic orthodontic options available today, it’s easy achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. With ALIGNERCO, a smile makeover has never been easier. Just follow these 3 simple steps:
- Send us an impression of your teeth with our easy-to-use at-home kit.
- Receive customized clear aligner trays from our dental team right to your door.
- Watch your smile move quickly, comfortably, and conveniently for as little as $95/month.
The shape and position of your teeth may not be the only thing you’d like to change. Alignerco can help if you suffer from yellow, stained, or discolored teeth. With our whitening treatment kit, you can improve the brightness of your smile while wearing clear braces. Whitening your teeth while using ALIGNERCO is perfectly safe, effective, and easy.
For more information on how you can improve the appearance and color of your smile with ALIGNERCO, schedule your free online assessment today. You won’t believe how comfortable, convenient, and affordable improving your smile can be!
