{"id":151,"date":"2025-12-18T14:46:29","date_gmt":"2025-12-18T14:46:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.winfieldsmiles.com\/blog\/?p=151"},"modified":"2026-01-12T13:42:31","modified_gmt":"2026-01-12T13:42:31","slug":"is-gum-disease-genetic","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.winfieldsmiles.com\/blog\/2025\/12\/18\/is-gum-disease-genetic\/","title":{"rendered":"All in the Family: Is Gum Disease Genetic?"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\"A<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Some traits handed down from generation to generation are more desirable than others. Sure, you might wish you had your grandmother\u2019s long lashes or your grandfather\u2019s curly hair, but when it comes to your oral health nobody wants to inherit gum disease<\/a>. Although there are a number of factors that can determine if you\u2019ll develop this condition, studies have shown that if someone in your family has it, you have a higher risk of getting it yourself. Here\u2019s what you should know about genetics and protecting your smile against the dangerous effects of gum disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Defining Gum Disease<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gum (periodontal) disease is a chronic inflammation of gum tissue caused by oral bacteria. It begins as a condition called gingivitis, which is completely reversible with improved oral hygiene if caught early. Unfortunately, however, if left untreated, gingivitis can eventually become periodontitis, which can lead to more serious problems including bad breath, sensitive teeth, tooth loss, receding gums, and jawbone deterioration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gum Disease vs. Genetics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gum disease is caused by oral bacteria, but recent studies have shown that patients who have aggressive periodontal problems could be at a higher risk for the condition if other members of their family have had it as well. Although oral bacteria can be transferred from person to person, one study found that patients with certain genetic factors which affect the body\u2019s inflammatory response (which is vital when fighting oral bacteria) are 20 times more likely to develop gum disease than others!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Protect Your Gums<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although there\u2019s no way to rewire your genetic code, there are still many things you can do to help lower your risk of developing gum disease, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n