Genetics of Dental Caries: An Analysis of Genetic Susceptibility and Applied Gene Therapeutics in Scientific and Judaic Literature

Abstract

Oftentimes dentists have patients who continuously have issues with dental caries. These patients follow the advice of dentists by properly brushing and flossing their teeth, as well as adjusting their diets to aid in the maintenance of their teeth. However, these precautions patients adhere to are not universally successful; many still find themselves susceptible to frequent dental caries. Therefore, it is important to understand the genetic underpinnings to explain why some are more prone to dental caries than others. This knowledge can further be applied in researching targeted gene therapies to prevent dental caries formation, while simultaneously altering the standard treatment plan. There has been promising therapeutic research to select genes for strong enamel growth and healthy saliva, as well as genes that attack and prevent bacteria in the mouth. The usage of gene therapy is subject to controversy in Jewish law. However, these specific therapies should escape this controversy, as there is a health motivation for its allowance. Both Judaism and science mutually agree that maintaining proper oral care is crucial to the health of the mouth. Without a healthy regimen, dental caries will certainly form irrespective of one’s genetic makeup.