Inherited your mother's beautiful smile? Unfortunately, you may have also inherited her dental conditions. Your genes can make you prone to developing certain issues that can affect your oral health. Here are a few to be aware of.

Jaw Alignment: Jaw structure is hereditary. If uneven jaws run in your family, you and/or your children may have an overbite or underbite that can lead to difficulties with speech and chewing. 

Tooth Size and Spacing: Do either of your parents have crowded, extra or missing teeth? You may have the same issues with your permanent teeth. Irregular tooth size and spacing can cause problems with your gums and jaw.

Thin Tooth Enamel: The formation of your tooth enamel is determined primarily by your genes. Thinner enamel can expose teeth to sensitivity and damage. It can also make teeth appear yellow. 

Gum Disease: Periodontal, or gum, disease is an infection of the soft tissue surrounding teeth that can result in tooth and bone loss. It is generally caused by poor dental hygiene habits, but genetics can make you more susceptible. 

Oral Cancer: While environmental and lifestyle factors are key contributors to oral cancer, having it in your family history can increase your risk. Be sure to tell your dentist if this disease runs in your family.

The presence of dental issues in your family tree can put you at a greater risk for experiencing them yourself. However, maintaining superior oral health by brushing and flossing daily and seeing your dentist regularly can go a long way in preventing them. Take care of that great smile you got from your mother to avoid the dental issues she may have faced.