It’s understandable that parents would like to pass on their good traits to next generation but escape their unfavorable ones. Things, however, cannot go as we wish. Some suffering from bad teeth have concerns whether their dental issues will genetically come down to their children and get even worse. 

    According to dentists from AKJ Dental Hospital, it depends, maybe and maybe not. 

    Such severe malocclusion as maxillary excess, mandibular deficiency or underbite could be genetic. And as for skeletal deformity, it may show worse symptoms in the next generation. Should one confront such problems, it’s early intervention and treatment that are required. Generally a correction can be sought at as early as the age of three. 

    In addition, pregnant women who take medicines like tetracycline are at risk of delivering a baby who will suffer from tetracycline pigmentation deciduous teeth, because the medicines will get through the uterine placenta and exert an impact on the fetus. That’s why pregnant women should be extremely wary about taking medicines. 

    When it comes to dental diseases like dental caries and periodontitis, mostly it’s the poor oral hygiene and care that should be blamed. Without effective cleaning, over time there will be formation of dental plaque and calculus which harbor a large amount of bacteria that will cause problems. Therefore, it’s of great significance to always maintain good oral hygiene for your children. 

    Moreover, children with bad habits including sticking tongue out, sucking fingers and biting lips are more susceptible to malocclusion. When children have such behaviour, parents are supposed to intervene and help them quit. Regular oral check-ups for children are recommended, in order to early detect potential problems and have them fixed in time. 

    In brief, to an extent dental issues are indeed genetic. But it’s acquired disposition that accounts for much. In mixed dentition, much attention should be paid to prevent issues like dental caries, premature shedding of deciduous teeth, double-row teeth and supernumerary tooth. It’s important to seek proper treatment in time whenever there are dental problems. Such measures as fluoride application and pit and fissure sealing work well to prevent caries. 

    It’s suggested to arrange a thorough dental examination and have existing issues fixed before pregnancy. Even if they do pass on to next generation, a desirable result can still be expected with timely treatment. So you don’t need to worry a lot.

    Please feel free to contact me if there’s any dental problem. (WeChat ID: aiyuan3251805)