Dental genomics – 5 benefits for your smile. Genetic testing for more accurate diagnosis and safe treatments

Many of us wonder why, even with rigorous oral hygiene, we still suffer from conditions such as tooth decay or periodontal disease. The answer lies in our genetic code. DNA contains all the instructions for how the body functions, including the oral cavity and teeth.

Scientists have discovered that the risk of developing tooth decay, periodontal disease or even oral cancers is partly written into our genetic code. For example, certain genes that help form tooth enamel are associated with a higher risk of tooth decay. Similarly, variations in the genes that control inflammation are linked to a higher risk of periodontal disease.

The use of genetic testing in dentistry is no longer a novelty, but is increasingly becoming an integral part of modern dental clinics’ protocols.

Genomic dentistry involves integrating genomics – the science that studies a person’s entire genetic material (the genome) – with dental practice. By analysing a patient’s genetic profile, dentists can identify those at high risk of certain oral conditions and gain a better understanding of how these diseases develop.

“Genomic dentistry marks a significant evolution in oral healthcare worldwide. The integration of genomics into dentistry transforms medical practice from a reactive one, which focuses on repairing problems that have already arisen, into a predictive one. By identifying genetic predispositions early on, the dentist can recommend personalised diets, advise against harmful habits, or suggest regular monitoring tailored to the patient’s specific needs,” explains Dr Andrei Iamandoiu, Specialist in Dental and Maxillofacial Surgery at DENT ESTET clinics and Doctor of Medical Sciences.

1. More accurate diagnosis

Genetic testing, such as that developed by renowned laboratories in the United States or the United Kingdom, is transforming the way oral diseases can be diagnosed.

As genetic information can now be analysed quickly and comprehensively, genetic risk scores have been developed for various oral diseases, which can help doctors identify high-risk individuals and implement targeted preventive measures. For example, genetic biomarkers can help to quickly and effectively distinguish between common gum inflammation and aggressive forms of periodontitis (periodontal disease).

In addition to identifying risk, genetic testing improves diagnosis. For example, in the case of rare genetic disorders affecting oral health, genomic testing can provide a definitive diagnosis where traditional methods might fail.

2. An optimised treatment plan, based on your DNA

The main advantage of genomics is that it paves the way for truly personalised therapies and treatments. In dentistry, the use of genetic testing at the initial investigation stage provides dentists with essential information to personalise every stage of the treatment plan.

“Genes can influence the structure of enamel, the composition of saliva or the balance of bacteria in the mouth (the oral microbiome). This means that two patients with the same oral hygiene may have completely different outcomes if they develop periodontitis or another oral condition. Some heal faster or respond better to treatment. For example, if we know from the outset that there is a higher genetic predisposition to oral cancer or periodontal disease, we can intervene much earlier, perhaps even before the first signs appear,” explains Dr Andrei Iamandoiu.

In practice, the patient’s genetic profile becomes a roadmap guiding clinical decisions. For example, genetic tests can show how sensitive a patient is to anaesthetics or how effective certain anti-inflammatories and antibiotics are. This knowledge allows the doctor to select exactly the right medication and the optimal dose, and to avoid post-operative complications, making the treatment plan truly personalised.

3. Increased treatment effectiveness

The success of dental treatment, whether we are talking about root canal treatment, dental implants or therapy for oral cancer, depends largely on medical expertise and the materials used, but the patient’s genes are a factor that contributes to the failure or success of certain procedures.

“For example, genes that control bone metabolism, vitamin D, collagen production or inflammation can indicate the risk of peri-implantitis or bone resorption. By understanding the genetic factors that influence the process of osseointegration (the integration of the implant into the bone), dentists can use this information to select the appropriate dental implant surface and adjuvant therapy for each patient. “Such an approach, which takes into account each patient’s unique genetic code, massively increases the chances of long-term success,” explains Dr Andrei Iamandoiu.

4. Reducing the risk of complications

The main objective of integrating genomics into dental protocols is to ensure safer surgical procedures and treatments and to minimise the risk of failure or complications.

In the case of dental implant treatments, knowledge of the genetic profile allows the dentist to adjust the surgical protocol. If a patient has a high genetic risk of slower healing, they will benefit from much closer monitoring and optimised adjuvant therapy, designed to stimulate bone regeneration.

By choosing the most optimal solutions, the risk of problems such as infections or implant rejection is reduced.

“The introduction of genetic testing into our practice simply enhances the implantology protocols already in place at DENT ESTET clinics. The DENT ESTET implantology masterplan is based on a complex 3D digital assessment, using CBCT technology, and on the use of a surgical guide that allows for a minimally invasive procedure, with implants placed with a precision of 0.1 mm. “This technical rigour, combined with the expertise provided by interdisciplinary collaboration (surgeon, prosthodontist, dental technician), ensures that the procedure is carried out to the highest standards, minimising risks,” explains Dr Andrei Iamandoiu.

5. Reliable long-term results

Genomics helps us transform oral health from a reparative process (which takes place after the onset of decay or disease) into a process of prediction and prevention, which guarantees optimal long-term results. Saliva collection for genetic screening, as well as tests for the oral microbiome, are already standard practice, and the results can also be used by dentists.

In dental implant treatments, by selecting the optimal implant surface and appropriate adjuvant therapy, taking into account the genes that control bone metabolism, the chance of long-term success increases exponentially.

For patients with periodontal disease, recommending a more rigorous hygiene plan that takes the existing risk into account helps maintain the results achieved through treatment with laser technologies such as Waterlase and Epic Biolase, available at DENT ESTET clinics nationwide.

“Today, you don’t have to wait for a problem to arise. Genetic testing offers us a unique opportunity to become partners with the dentist in managing oral health, not just patients coming in for treatment. Genomics provides dentistry with the tools to make treatments safer, healing faster, and patients’ smiles – truly unique!”, says Dr Andrei Iamandoiu.

Although modern dentistry has come a long way, and serious conditions such as periodontal disease or oral cancer can be detected early thanks to genetic testing, the best treatment remains dental prevention.
Prevention helps us preserve the natural structure of the tooth. Only through prevention can we ensure a longer lifespan for natural teeth, thereby avoiding major interventions.

“We believe that genomic dentistry is the future and are taking steps in this direction by developing a modern clinical protocol integrated with genomics. Undoubtedly, in the future we will all have an ‘oral genetic passport’, containing data on predispositions, prevention recommendations, treatment and personalised nutrition. In this way, the dentist’s role will be not only curative but also preventive, working as part of a multidisciplinary team for health and longevity. Until then, however, prevention remains key. Daily oral hygiene and visits to the dentist are important for enjoying good oral health in the long term,” says Dr Oana Taban, CEO of DENT ESTET.

1. What is the difference between genetics and genomics?

Genetics studies genes and their role in the transmission of a particular trait or disease.

Genomics is a newer term and refers to the study of the entire human genetic material (the genome). Furthermore, genomics analyses the interactions between genes and environmental factors. Dental genomics involves the use of genetic testing to prevent and treat certain oral conditions.

2. For which oral diseases can genetic testing be carried out?

Genomic testing can identify a predisposition to a wide range of conditions, including periodontal disease (periodontitis), tooth decay (by analysing enamel strength) and even oral cancer. It also helps to understand how you react to infections and certain medications.

3. When should I have a genetic test for oral health?

Genetic testing is ideal at the prevention stage, before problems arise. It is particularly recommended if you have a family history of periodontal disease, if you have a complex treatment plan (such as dental implants), or if you simply want to move from standard hygiene to a highly personalised prevention strategy based on your DNA.

4. How does my DNA help with dental implant treatments?

Genomics offers you a safer and more durable treatment. By analysing the genes that control bone metabolism and inflammation, the dentist can anticipate the risk of failure or peri-implantitis. Based on this data, they can select the optimal implant surface and adjust the surgical protocol and medication, significantly increasing the chances of long-term success.

5. How is genetic testing actually carried out in the dental surgery?

Testing is a simple and non-invasive process. Most often, it involves collecting a saliva sample or taking a sample from the inside of the cheek (using a sterile swab). The sample is then sent to a specialist laboratory. The results, interpreted by the dentist, become your unique roadmap for a personalised oral health plan.