Are Certain Types of Malocclusions Genetic?
By Gertrude Lee | Published on February 18, 2011 | 0 Comments
Certain types of malocclusions certainly can be genetic, but that does not necessarily mean that all malocclusions are caused by parental genes. According to Dr. Gertrude Lee at Rocklin Family Dental Group in Rocklin, CA, a malocclusion is essentially just a misalignment of the teeth that can be caused by many things.
As a dentist who offers dental implants, Invisalign, and more at her practice in Rocklin, CA, Dr. Lee explains that malocclusions come in all different forms. The most common type of malocclusion for Dr. Lee to come into contact with – and the form that most people have heard of before – is known, in layman’s terms, as “buck teeth.” Buck teeth is a term used to describe a malocclusion in which a person’s front teeth protrude a little bit too much, explains Dr. Lee.
Interesting, Dr. Lee has noticed over the years that many adults with this type of malocclusion end up having children with the very same dental problem. This has led Dr. Lee to believe that certain types of malocclusions may very well be genetic in nature.
In cases where a child’s teeth are growing in severely misaligned, Dr. Lee says that she will generally refer the pediatric patient to her colleague at Rocklin Family Dental Group, Dr. Dubanski. Although Dr. Lee offers dental implants, Invisalign and other cosmetic treatments to patients in Rocklin, CA, she prefers letting Dr. Dubanski treat pediatric patients with severe malocclusions.
Most commonly, patients with severe overbites or buck teeth are treated with orthodontic braces. In order to determine whether a child is a good candidate for braces, Dr. Dubanski will need to get a close look and determine the best course of treatment. While Invisalign is frequently used to treat patients with certain types of malocclusions, patients with severe cases may need to see a specialist in orthodontics.
The reason why Dr. Lee recommends that patients with genetic malocclusions seek orthodontic intervention is that having these types of alignment problems and crowding issues can lead to severe tooth decay. If a person’s teeth are too crowded in the front, it can be nearly impossible to keep them clean with brushing and flossing alone. Thus, tartar buildup will begin, and various types of gum issues will develop. People with genetic malocclusions are more likely to suffer from tooth staining than people without these problems.
As a dentist in Rocklin, CA, who offers dental implants, Invisalign, and more, Dr. Lee says that getting a patient’s teeth straightened out can definitely help with hygiene issues. Although most people think of genetic malocclusions like buck teeth as a cosmetic issue, Dr. Lee confirms that certain types of malocclusions can lead to gum disease and decay, both of which are oral health issues that people need to address.
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.