{"id":148,"date":"2024-09-19T14:57:53","date_gmt":"2024-09-19T14:57:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.baltimoredentalarts.com\/blog\/?p=148"},"modified":"2024-10-10T14:58:16","modified_gmt":"2024-10-10T14:58:16","slug":"is-gum-disease-genetic","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.baltimoredentalarts.com\/blog\/2024\/09\/19\/is-gum-disease-genetic\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Gum Disease Genetic?"},"content":{"rendered":"
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We all have traits that run in the family. Whether it\u2019s your signature blue eyes, your ability to roll your tongue, or even the size of your feet, sometimes the apple doesn\u2019t fall very far from the proverbial tree. But one genetic trait that you probably don\u2019t want to have is the predisposition to periodontal (gum) disease<\/a>. While many environmental factors can affect who will develop this problem, studies have shown that if you have a family member with it, you may be more likely to have it yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s what you need to know about gum disease and genetics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What is Gum Disease?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gum disease is a chronic inflammation of the gum tissue caused by an excess of oral bacteria. This infection can start out small as gingivitis, which is usually reversible with early detection and careful brushing and flossing. But if left untreated, gingivitis can eventually morph into periodontal disease. In addition to inflammation, this irreversible condition can cause tooth loss, gum loss, and even jawbone deterioration and loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Role of Genetics in Gum Disease<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While gum disease is caused by bacteria, researchers have found that patients who have aggressive periodontitis could be more susceptible to it if other family members have had it, too. In fact, in one study it was discovered that patients who possess genetic factors that affect the interleukin-1 (IL-1) cytokine are 20 times more likely to develop it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Outsmarting Your Genes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

While you can only do so much to \u201ctrick\u201d nature, there are still plenty of things you can do to help reduce your risk of developing gum disease, even if it runs in the family. These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n