A mouth full of fillings can’t be blamed on genes

THOSE with tooth decay have only years of poor brushing habits to blame, scientists have confirmed, as genes passed down from gap-toothed parents have nothing to do with it.

A US study found that bacteria inherited from parents has no effect on the long-term health of their children’s teeth, with problems entirely caused by too much sugar and not brushing properly.

Scientists from the J Craig Venter Institute in Maryland took mouth swabs from 485 twins to determine if inherited bugs could cause tooth decay. But out of almost 300 types of bacteria found, some of which were genetic, none were associated with tooth decay. The added sugar in food and drink was needed to activate the damaging bacteria before someone was in danger of needing a filling.

Responding to the findings, Professor Damien Walmsley, scientific adviser at the British Dental Association, said: ‘The study indicates that tooth decay is rarely inevitable, and most of the factors are well within our control.

‘Getting prevention right means good oral hygiene – brushing teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, cutting back on sugary food and drinks in our diet, and regular visits to the dentist.’