Is Gum Disease Hereditary?

You must know that we inherit many features from our parents and family. You may be tall because your dad is tall, or you have curly hair because of your mom. Amongst other common hereditary diseases, is gum disease heritable as well?

Find out the relationship between gum disease and your family history and measures to protect your teeth and gums.

Is periodontal gum disease hereditary?

In the strict sense, periodontal gum disease is not hereditary. However, studies suggest genetics could influence a person’s susceptibility to gum disease.

Studies have shown that periodontal disease seems to have some genetic component, especially for severe conditions that appear early in the patient’s life. For example, aggressive periodontitis – a relatively uncommon disease that causes rapid bone loss around certain teeth – is common among family members.

Further, some studies also suggest a possible genetic link between our immune response and the development of chronic diseases. However, the relationship between genetics and gum diseases is still under investigation.

Types of gum disease

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues and bones supporting teeth. Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two primary types of gum disease. The different types include:

1. Gingivitis

   Accumulation of plaque and tartar on teeth causes gingivitis. It is the mildest form of gum disease. You likely have gingivitis if your gums are red, swollen, sore, or bleeding easily. However, it is a reversible stage. Therefore, your gums can be restored with professional treatment and proper oral home care.

2. Periodontitis

   Also known as Degenerative gum disease, it is an advanced-stage disease and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. It affects your gum tissues, spreads below the gum line, and deteriorates your jawbone, causing tooth loss.

3. Aggressive Periodontitis

   Aggressive periodontitis – a form of periodontitis – progresses rapidly and affects otherwise healthy individuals. It is characterized by the rapid destruction of the supporting tissues of the teeth, including the gums, alveolar bone, and periodontal ligaments. Destruction of the gingival tissue, gingival ligaments, and bone occurs rapidly and can be caused by genetic factors.

4. Chronic Periodontitis

   Chronic periodontitis progresses slowly and is characterized by inflammation and loss of attachment of the gums to the teeth. It results from the accumulation of plaque and calculus, which harbor dangerous bacteria and cause gum inflammation and infection.

5. Systematic periodontitis

   Systemic conditions that cause the development of gum diseases include:

   1. Diabetes
   2. Heart diseases
   3. Respiratory disease

Gum disease treatment

When you undergo treatment for gum disease, it is also important to adopt a daily routine of good oral care. The treatment aims to control the infection, reduce inflammation, and prevent further damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. A dentist or a periodontist can perform the treatment.

Non-surgical treatments

1. Scaling

   Scaling removes bacteria and tartar from your tooth surfaces and beneath gums using instruments like a laser or an ultrasonic device.

2. Root planing

   Root planing removes bacterial byproducts that irritate, impede healing, or cause the gums to reattach to the tooth surfaces while smoothing the root surfaces to prevent further tartar and bacterial buildup.

3. Antibiotics

   Topical antibiotics include antibiotic mouthwashes and gels inserted into pockets or the gap between teeth and gums following extensive cleaning.

Surgical treatments

1. Soft tissue grafts

2. Flap surgery

3. Bone grafting

Tips to keep gums healthy

1. Floss your teeth daily.
2. Get a regular dental cleaning.
3. Brush twice a day.
4. Use fluoride toothpaste.
5. Use a therapeutic mouthwash.
6. Quit smoking.

Most common hereditary diseases

1. Diabetes

2. Cystic Fibrosis

3. Sickle cell disease

4. Hemophilia

5. Huntington’s Disease

Conclusion

Maintaining excellent dental hygiene is the best way to protect against gum disease regardless of genetic makeup or other factors.

If you already have developed signs of gum disease, get immediate help from your local dentist before it progresses to severe stages.