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Lowcountry Family Dentistry Beaufort SC Dentist

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843-986-0177
Mon-Thurs 7:30AM-3:30PM
154 Sea Island Pkwy, Beaufort, SC 29907
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Can Genetic Testing Predict Your Dental Health?

November 26, 2020 //  by Lowcountry Family Dentistry

Can a genetic test predict your risk of developing future cavities or severe gum disease? The answer, at this point in time, is no.

There are commercially marketed tests that claim to measure risk of disease or susceptibility to future disease. Predictive genetic tests look for clues in your Oral DNA that could indicate whether you are at risk of developing certain diseases or medical conditions. For these tests, you are often asked to swab your cheek or mail a saliva sample back to a lab. The company follows up with results and may or may not provide a consultation with a medical professional.

However, just because you have a DNA “marker” associated with a particular disease, it does not mean you will ultimately develop the disease. That’s because there are many diseases, including cavities and gum disease, in which “environment” and “lifestyle” factors also play a role. In fact, these environmental and lifestyle factors control more of your risk of developing either cavities or gum disease than do any identified genetic marker.

Whether you regularly brush and clean between your teeth, what you eat and drink, whether you have had cavities in the past, and whether you use tobacco products—these are “environmental” or “lifestyle” factors that strongly affect your risk for developing gum disease or cavities.

While genetic testing may hold potential to improve predictions of future oral health, the tools your dentist already uses during an exam, including x-rays and probing measurements, are currently the best way to know where you stand in terms of your oral health today and what may lie ahead in the future.

Take an active role in preventing dental disease and keeping your mouth healthy by following these recommendations from the ADA:

  • Brush twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. (Don’t forget to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance.)
  • Clean between your teeth once a day
  • Eat a balanced, healthy diet
  • See your ADA dentist regularly for check ups

Schedule an Appointment

While genetic testing cannot predict future dental health, we can help.  A dentist is the most preventive doctor of all.  Our office focuses on preventative oral health through regular exams and patient education.  If you’re searching for a family dentist in the Beaufort SC area, Lowcountry Family Dentistry is always accepting great new patients. Call us at 843-986-0177 or schedule an appointment online to learn more about how our dental team can offer care for your entire family.

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Category: Dental Blog, Dental Education Library, TechnologyTag: DNA, Genetic Testing, Oral DNA

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Dental Services

  • General Dentistry
    • Family Dentistry
    • Teeth Cleanings
    • Dental Exams
    • Periodontal Therapy
    • Scaling and Root Planing
    • Periodontal Maintenance
    • Tooth Extraction
    • Root Canal Therapy
    • Nitrous Sedation (Laughing Gas)
  • Cosmetic Dentistry
    • Professional Teeth Whitening
    • Porcelain Veneers
    • Dental Bonding
    • Tooth Contouring & Shaping
    • Invisalign Clear Braces
  • Restorative Dentistry
    • Dental Fillings
    • Composite Fillings
    • Dental Crowns
    • Dental Bridge
    • Implant Supported Dentures
    • Air Abrasion
  • Pediatric Dentistry
    • Fluoride Treatments
    • Dental Sealants
    • Stainless Steel Crowns
    • Space Maintainers
    • Children’s First Dental Exam
    • Interceptive Orthodontics
    • Pulp Therapy
    • Athletic Mouthguards
  • Emergency Dental Care
  • Dental Concerns
    • Bleeding Gums
    • Crooked Teeth
    • Discolored Teeth
    • Sleep Apnea
    • TMJ/TMD Treatment
    • Dental Anxiety
  • Same-Day Crowns (CEREC)
  • Dental Implants
    • Benefits of Dental Implants
    • Types of Dental Implants
    • Dental Implant Procedure
    • Cost of Dental Implants
    • Dental Implants vs Dentures
    • Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

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Lowcountry Family Dentistry

154 Sea Island Pkwy
Beaufort, SC 29907

843-986-0177

Monday to Thursday
7:30am-3:30pm

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