If you have any genetic dental abnormalities, then you can blame your genes for your oral troubles. Unfortunately, many people suffer from genetic abnormalities. They have diseases, problems, and dysfunctions in their teeth and tissues that originate in their genes. Find out about the most common genetic dental abnormalities.
1. Cleft Lip or Palate
As far as craniofacial deformities go, the cleft palate and lip is the most common. It occurs when the lip and/or palate do not fuse completely. If someone has a cleft palate, then it is more likely that they will have an offspring with one. Although it can happen to any ethnicity, it is most common among Asians. It is also more common in boys than in girls. Fortunately, it is possible to repair this genetic dental abnormality. Because babies are born with cleft palates, the repair can occur at a young age. Usually, it occurs between nine and 12 months old. The procedure requires a plastic surgeon. During the surgery, he connects the muscles of the palate and rearranges tissues to close the cleft. Before the surgery, the child gets general anesthesia. After it, she usually stays several days in the hospital.
2. Amelogenesis Imperfecta and Dentinogenesis Imperfecta
This common genetic dental abnormality involves your tooth enamel. Your enamel covers the crowns of your teeth. Because it protects your teeth, the enamel needs to be hard. However, people with amelogenesis imperfecta have trouble with their enamel. In some cases, the enamel does not harden as it should. In other cases, there is not enough enamel production. Meanwhile, dentinogenesis imperfecta involves your dentin. The dentin makes up most of the structure of your teeth. It keeps your teeth intact and safe. However, people with this abnormality have defective dentin. As a result, the enamel flakes off of their teeth. These two genetic dental abnormalities are similar in that they have the same effects. When you have either disease, you could have weak teeth. They may be sensitive to both pressure and temperature. Additionally, they may wear out quickly. Treating either disease requires
treating the effects of the disease. For example, you may need fillings, veneers, or crowns. If you lose your teeth, then you might need dentures or dental implants.
3. Malocclusion
Although you might not be familiar with the term malocclusion, you probably are familiar with a bad bite. The terms are one-in-the-same. Many individuals suffer from a bad bite. It occurs when you have jaws that don’t align, extra or missing teeth, or crowded teeth. In any situation, the cause is usually hereditary. Your genes often give you malocclusion. If you have malocclusion, you could develop TMJ disorders. As a result, you could have a difficult time chewing your food or speaking. Your bad bite could greatly impact the quality of your life. There are a few possible treatments for this disorder. In some cases, braces can fix it. However, the problem could be with your jaw placement. In that case, jaw surgery could be necessary. You usually need to see an orthodontist. When he assesses you, he can tell you the treatment options. It might also be necessary to treat your TMJ.
4. Gum Disease
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease can be hereditary. It occurs when you have a bacterial infection that damages the soft and hard tissues that hold your teeth. At first, it starts as gingivitis. The gums become red and swollen. Additionally, they tend to bleed. At that point, you can reverse the disease. If it progresses, then more damage can occur. It becomes periodontitis, which involves severe damage to your supporting gum and bone. If you develop periodontitis, then you may need to have a dentist remove your teeth. If the disease is severe, then you may need dentures. There are several causes for gum disease. Your oral hygiene plays a major part in the disease. However, it is also hereditary. Depending on your genes, you may be more likely to get gum disease. The only way to prevent it is to practice good oral hygiene. In addition to brushing your teeth two or three times a day, you should also floss. Using mouthwash can also prevent the disease.
Getting Treatment for Your Genetic Dental Abnormalities
If you have any genetic dental abnormalities, then you need to see a dentist. Although some abnormalities are noticed at birth, others go ignored until adulthood. You don’t need to wait to get help. If you
go to a dentist, he can explain the problem. Then, he can help you come up with a treatment plan. In some cases, he may be able to do the treatment. However, some situations require other specialists. After your exam, your dentist can refer you to the right specialist. Your abnormality may require a simple fix or a complicated one. In any case, you’re in good hands. With a little dental work, you might no longer have an abnormality.