Is Periodontal Disease Hereditary? – What You Need to Know About Periodontal Disease?
The prevalence of gum (periodontitis) disease among adult Americans is rising alarmingly. According to studies, 86% of this population suffers from the illness. Does heredity have a part in such high numbers? This article will briefly explain it.
What is periodontal disease?
Gum disease is a serious disorder that can affect your teeth and gums. It is caused by bacteria that live in the mouth. They feed on sugars that are in foods and drinks, producing plaque. This plaque provides the perfect environment for the bacteria to multiply and cause gum disease and tooth decay.
- Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a common condition affecting the soft tissues that support the teeth. It can result from bacterial plaque and other factors.
These include smoking, poor diet, hormonal changes, and diseases like HIV and cancer. Fortunately, treatments available can help you get back on the right track with your oral health.
There is no known single cause of gingivitis, but genetics can play a role in susceptibility. If you have a parent with the disease, you are more likely to develop it.
- Mild periodontitis
Mild periodontitis is a form of periodontal disease that is characterised by inflammation and infection of the gums. If left untreated, mild periodontitis can lead to more serious forms of gum disease, such as moderate or severe periodontitis. Treatment for mild periodontitis typically includes professional teeth cleanings, at-home oral care, and possibly antibiotics.
- Advanced Periodontitis
Advanced periodontitis is a disease that affects the gums and the supporting tissue around the teeth. It results in pockets of infection that fill with bacteria. In severe cases, the pockets can cause bone and tissue loss. It is an inflammatory disease that strains the immune system and can ultimately lead to tooth loss.
Is Periodontal Disease Hereditary?
Studies show that people with a family history of periodontal disease are at a greater risk of developing the condition than those without a family history. While genetics are not always responsible for this, it is thought that genetic factors play a key role in about half of periodontal disease cases. Research suggests that genetics may affect the immune response to periodontal disease.
How to treat periodontal disease?
If you have a family history of periodontal disease, you may wonder how to treat it. The good news is there are several ways to prevent and even treat this disease. The first step is to clean your teeth and gums. It will remove plaque that can cause gum disease. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and using mouthwash are other ways to maintain healthy gums. Visiting your dentist is also a fantastic way to protect your gums.
Periodontal disease can occur at any age, but it usually starts after age 35. In addition to genetics, many other factors can increase the risk. Some threat factors are poor oral hygiene, smoking, and hormones. However, it is important to remember that you can reduce risk by improving your diet and oral hygiene habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to prevent periodontal disease from being passed down to your children?
It is possible to prevent periodontal disease from being passed down to your children by rehearsing good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly.
How is hereditary periodontal disease treated?
The treatment for hereditary periodontal disease will vary depending on the severity of the condition. In most cases, however, a combination of dental procedures and lifestyle changes will be necessary to treat the disease.
Final Thoughts
If you have a family record of gum disease, don’t worry! You can take preventative measures to reduce your risk of developing the condition. Brushing and flossing regularly, visiting your dentist, and eating a healthy diet are all great ways to keep your gums healthy. And if you do develop gum disease, treatments available can help you get back on track.
To know everything about Periodontal Disease Reversal, click here.
