You’re probably already aware that poor oral hygiene practices can easily lead to gum disease. But did you know that your family history could make a difference as well? Researchers have found that specific genetic factors could put certain patients at a higher risk for developing a gum infection. To help you protect your smile, here’s a look at how your genes can have an impact on the health of your gums.
Gum Disease and Genetics
Studies show that around 30% of people have a genetic factor that causes problems with their cytokine response. Cytokines are special proteins that play a role in activating the immune system to fight infections. If there’s an issue with your cytokine response due to your genetics, then you could be significantly more likely to suffer from an advanced form of gum disease.
Note that even if your genetics put you at a higher risk for gum disease, that doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you’ll develop it. That being said, if you know that you have a family history for gum disease, you should take that as a sign to be extra diligent about taking care of your smile.
How Can You Protect Yourself From Gum Disease?
While you can’t change the genetic factors that might make you susceptible to gum disease, you can take various steps to protect the health of your gums, such as:
- Brushing Regularly: Brushing your teeth at least two times a day is an essential step for maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Remember to pay close attention to the area where the teeth meet the gums.
- Flossing Daily: The bacteria that cause gum disease often hide in the spaces between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. To clean these spaces effectively, you should turn flossing into a daily habit.
- Eating Foods That Improve Gum Health: Certain foods contain nutrients that can go a long way toward lowering your risk for gum disease. For example, salmon and other kinds of fish contain omega-3 fatty acids that help fight inflammation.
- Seeing the Dentist: It’s easier to deal with gum disease when it’s identified in its earliest stages. As such, it’s important to visit your dentist for a checkup every six months so that they can evaluate the current state of your gums.
In short, it’s possible that your genetics could make you more prone to developing gum disease, but there are still plenty of steps you can take to keep your gums in good health.
About the Practice
At Flenniken Family Dentistry, our dental experts are proud to be able to offer comprehensive dental care to Carlisle patients. We take a patient-centered approach to dentistry; you can count on us to personalize your care according to your unique needs, and our team will treat you with kindness and compassion throughout your treatment. We offer a variety of ways to address gum disease, including scaling and root planing. If you have swollen or bleeding gums, you can schedule an appointment with our team by visiting our website or calling (717) 249-7777.
