Role of genes in dental caries
The genetics of dental caries enables us to identify high- risk groups as well as the individuals who show resistance despite of cariogenic diet.
To evaluate the potential role of genetics in dental caries, twin studies were performed and it was concluded that monozygotic twins have higher concordance than dizygotic twins.
In a recognizable Vipeholm study, it was observed that there is certain subpopulation that show resistance to dental caries even after being exposed to rich cariogenic diet. Notwithstanding the influence of environmental factors cannot be dismissed.
The genetic determinants of proneness to caries include the tooth structure, their degree of mineralization, variations in immunological response to cariogenic bacteria and flow rate of saliva.
The genetic determinants of caries include :
TOOTH GENES
The process of enamel matrix formation is genetically controlled through interaction of organic matrix molecules namely ameloblastin, tuftelin, enamelin, amelogenin and dentin sialophosphoprotein. The role of these proteins are as following:
• Dentin Sialophosphoprotein- biominerlaization of dentin
• Ameloblastin- involved in enamel formation
• Tuftelin- involved in initial stage of mineralization
The genetic association with tooth which increases the susceptibility or resistance to caries are:
DEFECTIVE MINERALIZATION
Mutations in these genes results in impaired production or reduction of the aforesaid proteins leads to defective mineralization thereby increasing the susceptibility of tooth surface to dental caries. Thus fluoride varnishes are used as prophylactic measures. Use toothpaste with fluoride in it. You can buy healthcare products online.
DIFFRENTIAL GENETIC EFFECTS BOTH ON DENTITIONS AND SURFACES
It was seen that hereditability for pit & fissure and smooth surface caries is greater in primary than in permanent dentition.
Few studies also observed SNPs in associated genes to be affiliated with protection against pit & fissure and smooth surface caries in Caucasian parent child trio.
TASTE GENES
Sweet, bitter, salty taste perceptions are mediated by specific genes which act through their influence on taste and dietary habits resulting in sensitivity or insensitivity to cariogenic food.
It was observed that polymorphisms in sweet taste receptors and glucose transporter genes individually and in combination are associated with caries risk.
According to twin studies, eating habits as well as sucrose sweetness recognition of monozygotic pairs were more alike than dizygotic twin pairs.
IMMUNE RESPONSE
Genetic influence of immune response involves great diversity of modifications which determine colonization by cariogenic microorganisms.
Studies proved a great association with genes of HLA complex and disturbances in development of enamel which makes the tooth surface vulnerable to caries.
Polymorphism in MHC may cause variation in immune response making individual susceptible to caries.
Beta defensin 1 gene has been implicated as a protective shield against caries.
SALIVA
Saliva serves as defence mechanism to caries by providing aqueous medium for fluoride, calcium and phosphates required for remineralisation. Salivary flow is less in females than in males thus increase risk of caries is seen in females than males.
Antimicrobial peptides are salivary defence mechanism system and the their concentration is determined genetically which serve as predicator of caries risk in children. Mouthwash has all the active ingredients that help one to protect their teeth against caries. You can buy mouthwah from best online medicine store in India
Lactotransferrin is a multifunctional metalloproteinase secreted in saliva with antibacterial effect.
Conclusion
There is a strong genetic contribution to the susceptibility to caries along with superimposed environmental factors. Further investigation on human genome will permit us to better recognize the genetic background of dental caries for more efficient diagnosis and treatment.