Q.
I would like to know if there is anything i can do to help prevent gum disease. I have been told That you can almost inherit gum disease from your parents. that it is the way you and your gums react to the build up of bacteria. the issue is that both my mum and dad have had gingivitis and that have as for as I can remember, always brushed and generally practiced good oral health methods. does this mean that I will get It no matter what? Im 16 now and don’t want to have to go through gum disease. If it is hereditary Is there nothing I can do about it because even brushing to keep off bacteria obviously doesn’t work? I’m generally quite worries about this as they say the second thing someone notices after your eyes is your smile, and having just started college I don’t want to jeopardise that. thanks
I would like to know if there is anything i can do to help prevent gum disease. I have been told That you can almost inherit gum disease from your parents. that it is the way you and your gums react to the build up of bacteria. the issue is that both my mum and dad have had gingivitis and that have as for as I can remember, always brushed and generally practiced good oral health methods. does this mean that I will get It no matter what? Im 16 now and don’t want to have to go through gum disease. If it is hereditary Is there nothing I can do about it because even brushing to keep off bacteria obviously doesn’t work? I’m generally quite worries about this as they say the second thing someone notices after your eyes is your smile, and having just started college I don’t want to jeopardise that. thanks
A.
What you have been told is generally true that there is a genetic element to gum disease and if it is in your family then you are at increased risk. That does not mean that you will automatically get gum disease. YOu can reduce the risks by brushing and flossing twice daily and if you have gingivitis then you can expect the gums to bleed in the early stages. YOu should eat a balanced diet and avoid smoking as this is a huge risk factor.
What you have been told is generally true that there is a genetic element to gum disease and if it is in your family then you are at increased risk. That does not mean that you will automatically get gum disease. YOu can reduce the risks by brushing and flossing twice daily and if you have gingivitis then you can expect the gums to bleed in the early stages. YOu should eat a balanced diet and avoid smoking as this is a huge risk factor.
Of course see you dentist every 6 months and ask can you see a hygienist who can offer preventative care.
Dr Ian Dunn
PurelyPerio Clinic 334, PO Box 334, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 0AG Web: www.purelyperio.co.uk Tel: 01625 419700
