A Gummy Heritage: Is Gum Disease Genetic?

Given its framing, many people now see gum disease as a lifestyle problem. They think you’ll only be at risk if you don’t brush enough, eat too much junk food or smoke. However, recent research shows that infected gums can run in families; some people are born with a higher risk of getting it. Your Federal Way dentist will even share the supporting research with you. To that end, keep reading to learn the answer to a pressing question: Is gum disease genetic?

Is Gum Disease Genetic?

Aside from lifestyle, a person’s genes can also affect their gum disease risk. Scientific evidence has begun to show and confirm that much.

The most relevant findings come from a study by the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Dental Medicine. In this work, researchers noted a link between a gene variant and a patient’s likelihood of having tooth decay, cavities, and tooth loss. Such problems often lead to gum infections, so the discovered link points to a biological risk factor.

Of course, other research also bears out this conclusion. Several studies show that gum disease tends to be common among members of the same family. Furthermore, there’s likely a genetic link between a person’s immune response and chronic periodontitis.

Keep Track of Common Symptoms

Since genes can put you at high risk of gum disease, you should watch for this infection’s common symptoms. Knowing whether you show the signs can ensure you get quick treatment.

Since gum disease has two stages, it can manifest many symptoms. Typical ones for gingivitis include bad breath, swollen gums, gum tenderness, and gums that bleed easily. As for periodontitis, the biggest telltale signs are gum recession, loose teeth, tooth sensitivity, and tooth loss.

If you show several of the symptoms above, you should see your dentist immediately. They can treat your infection before it has a chance to get worse.

How to Reduce Your Gum Disease Risk

Even if your genes make gum disease likely, you can still take steps to reduce your risk. Just remember to do the following:

• Keep Your Smile Clean: If you brush twice daily and floss once daily, you’ll keep plaque from building up enough to cause gum disease.
• Eat a Mouth-Healthy Diet: Sugary, fatty, and acidic foods irritate your gums and lead to bacterial growth. So, follow a diet with more nutritious items like fruits, leafy greens, lean proteins, dairy products, etc.
• Avoid Tobacco: Tobacco products often cause gum disease, as they weaken your immune system and make infections more likely.
• See Your Dentist Often: Regular dental checkups let a dentist treat issues before gum disease can “set in,” so to speak.

So, is gum disease genetic? Yes – that’s why you need to be careful! To keep your risk down, see your dental provider for help on keeping your gums healthy.

About the Author

Dr. Drew Beaty is a highly experienced dentist based in Federal Way, WA, having earned his DDS at Northwestern University. Thanks to 20+ years of fieldwork, he’s well-versed in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatments. That means whole families can trust him (and his team) to make any smile healthy and strong! Today, Dr. Beaty practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable on his website and by phone at (253)-839-6544.