What if a person’s genes could be used to predict their risk for gum disease? A new study at the University of Michigan will examine just that issue.
Genetic testing will be done on some 4,000 patients, and the data will be correlated with levels of tooth loss and periodontal disease.
Genetics has been shown to play a role in gingivitis. It is thought that certain gene variants can cause proteins to be overexpressed, leading soft tissue to detach from bone, and correlating with periodontal problems like bleeding gums, periodontitis, and eventual loss of teeth.
Read more: Genetic test to help predict gum disease