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Is gum disease genetic? Question

Genes influence how strongly a person's immune system reacts to gum bacteria, so periodontitis runs in families and some people progress fast even with good care. A study of 117 twin pairs estimated adult periodontitis to be about 50% heritable. Genes do not cause the disease alone: plaque must be present, and smoking and uncontrolled diabetes raise the risk most.

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What does family history mean for me?

A parent or sibling with early tooth loss from gum disease is a reason for a full periodontal exam, not just a cleaning. Fast progression is recorded as grade C in the 2017 classification and calls for closer maintenance.

Questions

Is there a genetic test for gum disease?

Tests exist, but periodontists diagnose and grade from the exam, X-rays and history. A test does not replace them.

Sources

  1. Michalowicz BS et al. Evidence of a substantial genetic basis for risk of adult periodontitis. J Periodontol 2000
  2. Tonetti MS et al. Staging and grading of periodontitis. J Periodontol 2018
  3. American Academy of Periodontology, patient resources

Reviewed by , Director of IT and Medical Compliance: 25 years in dentistry, medicine and HIPAA compliance. Updated . Checked against the sources listed. General information, not medical advice.

Gum disease and symptoms Read next

Why do my gums hurt?Gums hurt most often because they are inflamed by plaque (gingivitis), infected in a deep pocket (a periodontal abscess), irritated by trapped food, or worn by hard brushing.Can gum disease be reversed?Gingivitis, the early stage, reverses completely: gums return to health within days to weeks of removing plaque.Can bone loss around teeth be reversed?Some bone lost to periodontitis can be rebuilt.What do gum pocket numbers mean?The numbers called out during a gum exam are pocket depths: how far, in millimeters, a probe slides between the gum and the tooth.Can gum disease cause tooth loss?Yes. Periodontitis destroys the ligament and bone that hold teeth, and the CDC lists it as a leading cause of tooth loss.What are the warning signs of gum disease?The warning signs of gum disease are red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums, gums pulling away from the teeth, loose or sensitive teeth, pain when chewing, and bad breath that does not go away.