EN 
ES Dr. Arabella Michelén
Human beings inherit traits from our parents; half and half, which is why we resemble one or the other in certain aspects. Genetics is the science that studies how this process occurs, which includes everything from skin color to the overall development of the individual; teeth, gums, jaws, and face are no exception.
Genetic information is found in DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), which acts like the instruction manual for each individual. It is important to mention that, just as there are differences between siblings, there is greater similarity among some than others; they share differences and similarities. Some traits and/or diseases have dominant characteristics, and a doctor, knowing this information, can act preventively.
At the oral cavity level, inheritance mainly influences:
Quality of dental tissues, including enamel and dentin. This is vital in the prevention of dental cavities and tooth fractures. Weak tissues increase the likelihood of developing diseases and injuries.
Shape of the teeth: the incisors, canines, premolars, and molars have a characteristic morphology that distinguishes them. Sometimes these are altered, resulting in pointed lateral teeth, or other teeth being rounded, square, or rectangular. This affects not only aesthetics but also chewing function and speech.
Size is also determined by inheritance; it is very common to see microdontia and macrodontia—teeth smaller or larger than normal. The former cause diastemas, that is, spaces between teeth, and the latter cause crowding.
Sometimes dental fusions or geminations occur, which is when two teeth are joined, appearing as one.
Genetics influences the size and shape of the jaw, which can affect the alignment of the teeth. This is important, as poor alignment can cause chewing difficulties or aesthetic problems.
Indirectly, patients with a hereditary condition, such as certain syndromes, have conditions that affect oral health, for example: an enlarged tongue or a small oral cavity. General health conditions, such as diabetes, have a close relationship and predisposition to periodontal disease.
Genetics influences and predisposes individuals to certain oral problems and diseases; however, as a family and patient, together with the oral health professional, measures should be taken that will make a difference.
Important tips for your oral health:
- Healthy lifestyle, avoiding harmful habits such as smoking, alcoholic or sugary drinks, high carbohydrate intake, and a sedentary lifestyle; all of these worsen the situation.
- Regular visits to the dentist, starting before the eruption of the first tooth. Diagnosing a frenulum with incorrect attachment and addressing it prevents future complications; not to mention an X-ray around the age of two, which gives the pediatric dentist a complete overview of the teeth and jaw structure, allowing timely diagnosis of tooth absence, supernumerary teeth, and other abnormalities.
- Healthy nutrition, starting from pregnancy, helps strengthen the teeth and later prevents oral diseases.
- Proper oral hygiene. Remember: toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash. Three times a day or after eating. Don’t forget to use any tools recommended by your dentist.
Genetics is all that we inherit from the moment the egg and sperm unite, giving rise to the miracle of life; it is already within us and likely makes us unique. However, with preventive measures and the environment around us, these can be modified, for better or worse.
Let us never forget that prevention is better than cure, and that the dentist is your ally in oral health.
Today's Newspaper Article