Some people develop dental or oral problems not because of what they do but because of the genes that they inherited from their parents. Here are a few examples of such dental or oral problems.
Malocclusion
Malocclusion is a dental condition in which your upper and lower teeth do not align when you close your mouth. Malocclusion may cause your teeth to overlap, protrude, or grow at an angle. Malocclusion is dangerous because it creases your risk of teeth damage, dental diseases, and speech problems.
Malocclusion has several causes, such as prolonged thumb sucking and premature loss of baby teeth. However, some people are just genetically predisposed to developing misaligned teeth and will get malocclusion regardless of what they do.
Gingival Fibromatosis
This is a hereditary oral condition in which the gum tissues overgrow and become swollen. Overgrown gums are dangerous because they make oral hygiene difficult. Bits of food and bacteria easily hide under the gum pockets, between the gums and the teeth. Gingival fibromatosis is also a cosmetic problem because the overgrown gums cover up part of the teeth.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal or gum disease is a bacterial infection that affects the teeth and the structures that surround the teeth, such as the ligaments, bone, and gums. The disease is usually localized to the gum tissues in its infancy but then spreads to other parts of the mouth without treatment. Poor dental hygiene is a common cause of periodontal disease, but some people will develop gum disease regardless of their oral hygiene measures because of their genetics.
Anodontia
Anodontia, which is relatively rare, is a genetic anomaly characterized by missing teeth. Anodontia can affect both primary and permanent teeth. If you get anodontia of the permanent teeth, your primary teeth will erupt and fall off as usual, but the permanent teeth won't erupt. Unfortunately, missing teeth interferes with speech, eating, and the development of nearby teeth, among other complications.
Amelogenesis Imperfecta
This is an inherited disorder in which the enamel, which is the outer protective layer of the teeth, is defectively formed. Amelogenesis imperfecta may give you soft or thin enamel layers. Since the enamel usually protects the inner tooth structures, amelogenesis imperfect exposes your teeth to various risks such as acid and bacterial attack, among others.
Good oral hygiene is a good way to protect your teeth, but it doesn't mean you won't develop oral conditions. Thus, you still need regular dental checkups even if you practice oral hygiene religiously. Regular dental consultations may help you to spot and take care of genetic or oral problems before they worsen. Find a dentist near you like Belgrade Dental Associates if you have any dental concerns.
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