A new study from Umeå University in Sweden has found that both your genes and your daily habits may affect your risk of getting tooth decay and gum disease.
These two conditions—also known as cavities and periodontitis—are among the most common health problems in the world.
Scientists have believed for a long time that our genes might play a part in dental health. But until now, they didn’t have clear proof. That’s because tooth decay and gum disease are influenced by many different things, not just genetics.
To dig deeper, researchers collected data from nine clinical studies around the world, including information from 62,000 people. They also used data from the UK Biobank, which included answers from over 460,000 people about their dental health. This made it the largest study ever on how genes are linked to dental problems.
The scientists looked at millions of points in the human genome and found 47 new genes that may increase the risk of getting cavities. They also confirmed that one gene linked to the immune system plays a role in gum disease.
These newly discovered genes do different things. Some help form teeth and bones in the jaw. Others help the body make saliva, which protects the teeth. Some genes even affect the types of bacteria that live in your mouth. For gum disease, the gene they found shows that the immune system—your body’s defense system—is very important.
The study also found that cavities are connected to other health risks like obesity and smoking, which are also linked to heart disease. This means that your dental health is connected to your overall health.
In short, your teeth are not separate from the rest of your body. What happens in your mouth can show what’s going on in your body—and can even affect it.
Even though the study found links between genes and dental health, the best way to avoid tooth decay and gum disease is still simple: take care of your teeth. Brush them, floss regularly, and avoid eating too much sugar.
This study, led by Ingegerd Johansson and published in Nature Communications, gives scientists a better understanding of how genes and lifestyle choices work together to affect dental health. It may lead to better treatments or ways to help people who are more at risk because of their genes.
But for now, the advice stays the same—good oral hygiene and a healthy diet are the best ways to protect your smile and your overall health.
If you care about tooth health, please read studies about an important causes of tooth decay and gum disease, and common tooth disease that may increase risks of dementia.
For more health information, please see recent studies about mouthwash that may increase your tooth damage, and results showing this diet could help treat gum disease.
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