As a parent, there are a lot of characteristics that we share with our children in the genetic sense. We get half of our DNA from our mom, and the other half from our dad. Because of this, many physical traits can be passed down from parent to children. This includes oral, mouth, and teeth characteristics.
Because of this, many people might not know if the need for braces is something that is hereditary or not. If one or both parents have had braces in the past, is it a guarantee that the child is also going to need braces? Crystal River residents should know that this type of scenario does not always mean a child is going to need braces in the future, but it does increase their chances of having complications and alignment issues.
This is why it is always a good idea to get children to a pediatric dentist while they are young, so these types of issues can be caught early and prepared for. Here we will go into a little more detail about identifying the need for braces in children.
Why Does Two Parents Having Braces Affect Their Child’s Chances?
Braces are typically needed when there is not enough space in a person’s mouth. This is usually determined by the spaces of teeth and the jaw of an individual, which can be different from person to person.
Yet, since genetic traits end up getting passed down from parent to child, there is a good chance that a child will also inherit these specific issues. If both parents have needed braces, Crystal River residents should know there is a high probability that their child will need braces for the same reasons.
This is not always the case, as there are some instances in which a child will not need braces if their parents have had them, but it is less likely than you might think.
Braces Are Assessed on an Individual Basis
When a child goes to a dental office, the dental professional is not going to assume that the child will need braces based on the genetic information of the parents. This is because braces should be assessed on an individual basis.
For example, two parents who do not need braces may have a child that will need braces in the future. Genetics is a great way to prepare for and predict certain health issues, but it is just as important to assess the patients based on their need alone, and not the needs of their parents.
When it comes to getting braces, Crystal River parents should know the first sign of shifting or miss aligned teeth is not always a cause for concern. Make sure to talk to your child’s dental professional before moving forward working with an orthodontist.
*Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Anchor Dental Care*