When you bring your family to the dentist in Saskatoon, you might notice something strange: even though you share the same DNA (or at least part of it), your teeth can be completely different. One sibling has perfectly straight teeth, while another needs braces. One parent has super strong enamel, and their child has cavities despite brushing religiously. And if you’ve ever met a set of twins in Saskatoon with totally different dental needs, you might be wondering—how does this happen?
At Boulevard Dental, we see families from all over Saskatoon, and we know firsthand how unique every smile can be—even within the same family. Let’s dive into why your family members have different teeth, how to take care of them, and how to optimize your family’s dental visits in Saskatoon.
Genetics and Teeth: Why No Two Family Members Have the Same Smile
Your smile is part nature and part nurture. Here’s why your family’s dental traits don’t always match up:
Genetics Play a Big Role
Your parents pass down their tooth shape, size, and even jaw structure. However, these genes combine in different ways, which is why one sibling might get their mom’s straight teeth, while another inherits dad’s overbite.
Enamel Strength Varies
Some people naturally have stronger enamel than others. If your family has a history of weak enamel, your family dentist in Saskatoon may recommend extra fluoride treatments to help.
Saliva Differences
Believe it or not, saliva plays a big role in cavity prevention. Some family members may have more saliva that naturally fights bacteria, while others are more prone to dry mouth, increasing their risk for decay.
Oral Bacteria Is Family-Sharable
Yes, it sounds gross, but families often share bacteria. Kissing, sharing utensils, and even sneezing can spread cavity-causing bacteria among family members. So if one person has frequent cavities, it’s worth checking the whole family’s oral health.
What About Twins in Saskatoon? Why Don’t They Have the Same Teeth?
Twins—especially identical twins—are a fascinating case when it comes to dental health. If they have the same DNA, shouldn’t their teeth be identical? Not always! At Boulevard Dental, we’ve treated twins in Saskatoon who have surprisingly different dental needs. Here’s why:
Epigenetics
Even though identical twins have the same genes, environmental factors (diet, habits, and even how they sleep) influence how their teeth develop.
Thumb Sucking & Pacifiers
If one twin sucked their thumb and the other didn’t, their bites can develop differently.
Diet & Lifestyle Choices
If one twin loves sugary snacks while the other sticks to water and veggies, guess who’s more likely to have cavities?
Orthodontic Needs Can Differ
Even small differences in jaw alignment can mean one twin needs braces while the other doesn’t.
If you’ve ever met a set of twins in Saskatoon with one needing braces and the other not, now you know why!
How to Take Care of Your Family’s Unique Dental Needs in Saskatoon
Since every family in Saskatoon has different dental needs, taking care of your family’s oral health requires a tailored approach. Here’s what you can do:
1. Customize Your Family’s Dental Care Routine – No two family members have the same smile, so your trusted family dentist in Saskatoon may recommend different approaches for each person. For example:
- Some kids may need sealants for cavity protection, while others don’t.
- A parent with receding gums may need sensitive toothpaste.
- A teenager in sports may need a custom mouthguard.
2. Make Family Dental Visits a Priority – It’s tempting to schedule each family member’s dental checkup separately, but grouping your visits at Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon can make life easier. Family block appointments mean fewer trips and a more convenient experience for busy Saskatoon families.
3. Pay Attention to Diet – Different teeth react differently to foods. Some family members might have a higher risk of cavities due to sugary snacks, while others need more calcium for strong enamel. Encourage your family to:
- Drink more water (especially fluoridated Saskatoon tap water!)
- Eat crunchy fruits and veggies to keep teeth clean
- Limit sticky, sugary snacks that linger on teeth
4. Protect Your Family’s Teeth With Good Habits
Each family member should have their own toothbrush (no sharing!) and should replace it every three months. If you have young kids, supervise their brushing to make sure they’re getting those back molars.
Family Brush Time: The Gender Divide in Oral Care
Brushing together as a family can be a great way to instill good habits, but did you know that men and women often approach oral care differently? Here’s what we’ve noticed at Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon:
• Women tend to brush more often and with better technique. Studies show that women are more likely to brush twice a day and for the full two minutes recommended by dentists.
• Men are more likely to skip flossing. Sorry guys, but the numbers don’t lie! Many men overlook flossing, which can lead to plaque buildup and gum disease over time.
• Kids take cues from their parents. If Dad skips brushing at night, the kids might too. Setting a strong example as a family can make all the difference.
A fun way to encourage family brush time is to turn it into a challenge—who can brush the longest? Who can make the best toothpaste foam? A little friendly competition goes a long way in getting everyone engaged!
What Our Dental Clients Are Saying
“Dr. Ryan Brezinski takes such good care of the dental health of my family. If you are looking for a dentist, look no further. And we can always count on the superb care provided by Janet, the best dental hygienist ever! The clinic Administrator and all the other staff are always kind and helpful. 5 stars!” – Ana
Book Your Family’s Next Dental Appointment with the Best Family Dentist in Saskatoon
At Boulevard Dental in Saskatoon, we understand that every family has unique dental needs. Whether your kids need their first checkup, your teenager needs braces, or you’re looking for a trusted family dentist in Saskatoon to help with adult dental care, we’re here for you.
Looking for the best family dentist in Saskatoon who truly understands your family’s unique dental needs? Boulevard Dental is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your family’s smiles healthy and bright!