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How IL2 Genetics Can Affect Your Gum Health

Gum disease, also called periodontitis, is an inflammatory condition that damages the tissues and bone that support your teeth. It usually starts with bacteria building up on tooth surfaces and in gum pockets. Left unchecked, chronic inflammation can cause tissue loss and bone resorption that lead to loose teeth and other health complications.

The IL2 gene helps regulate immune responses by producing Interleukin 2, a signaling molecule that coordinates white blood cell activity. Interleukin 2 is important for fighting infection, but when its activity is higher or dysregulated it can contribute to excessive inflammation and stimulate cells that break down bone. Variations in IL2 can change how strongly your immune system reacts in the gums, which may affect your risk of developing severe or rapidly progressing gum disease.

How to Use This Information

Genetic results are one piece of the bigger picture. Whether your genetic profile suggests higher or typical risk, the same practical steps help protect your gums and overall health. Use these recommendations to guide conversations with your dental provider and primary care clinician.

Everyday steps to support gum health

  • Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss or use interdental cleaners once daily to remove plaque between teeth.
  • Schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings as recommended by your dentist.
  • Avoid smoking and limit tobacco exposure because it greatly increases gum disease risk and slows healing.
  • Manage stress with sleep, movement, relaxation techniques, and social support because stress can worsen inflammation.
  • Stay well hydrated to support saliva production. Saliva helps buffer acids and control bacterial growth.

Diet and nutrients that support healthy gums

  • Eat an anti-inflammatory pattern focused on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
  • Include oily fish or algae-based omega-3 sources to supply EPA and DHA, which help modulate inflammation.
  • Choose foods rich in vitamin C such as citrus, berries, peppers, and cruciferous vegetables for gum tissue repair.
  • Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D for bone health and periodontal support.
  • Limit added sugars and refined carbohydrates that feed oral bacteria and increase plaque formation.

Supplements and tests to consider with your provider

  • Vitamin D and calcium: check levels with your clinician before supplementing. Both support bone strength and immune balance.
  • Omega-3 supplements: may reduce gum inflammation. Discuss dose and interactions with medications.
  • Coenzyme Q10: some people use CoQ10 to support gum cell health, but discuss evidence and dosing with a clinician.
  • Oral microbiome and periodontal assessments: professional evaluation can guide targeted treatments, including deep cleaning, local antimicrobials, or referral to a periodontist.

Genetic Interpretation for IL2 rs2069763

Below are genotype-specific interpretations for the IL2 variant rs2069763. Click to expand the section that matches your genotype. Remember that PlexusDx provides education about genetic predispositions and does not offer medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to treatment, medications, or supplement use.

2 effect alleles (AA)

Your genotype: AA. This means you carry two copies of the effect allele for rs2069763 in the IL2 gene. This variant has been associated with increased risk of chronic periodontitis in some studies. The IL2 gene produces Interleukin 2, which can increase immune activation and promote cells that break down bone.

What this can mean for you

  • Potentially stronger inflammatory responses in gum tissues.
  • Higher likelihood of more severe gum inflammation and faster progression of tissue and bone loss if gum disease develops.
  • Greater need for proactive dental prevention and monitoring.

Practical steps

  • Maintain strict oral hygiene: brush twice daily and clean between teeth daily.
  • Schedule more frequent dental cleanings and periodontal assessments as recommended by your dentist.
  • Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and fiber to help modulate immune responses.
  • Avoid tobacco and manage stress to minimize inflammatory triggers.
  • Discuss testing of vitamin D levels and bone health with your provider. Consider guided supplementation if deficient.
  • If periodontal disease is present, ask about early or more aggressive interventions such as scaling and root planing, localized antimicrobial therapy, or referral to a periodontist.
1 effect allele (AC)

Your genotype: AC. This means you carry one copy of the effect allele for rs2069763. This genotype is associated with a likely increased risk of chronic periodontitis compared with people who do not carry the effect allele. IL2 activity may be moderately different, influencing immune-driven inflammation in the gums.

What this can mean for you

  • A moderate increase in susceptibility to gum inflammation and possible progression to periodontitis if preventive measures are not followed.
  • Importance of early detection and consistent preventive care.

Practical steps

  • Practice excellent daily oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams.
  • Follow an anti-inflammatory dietary pattern and include omega-3 rich foods.
  • Quit smoking and minimize other lifestyle factors that elevate inflammation.
  • Monitor gum health for signs such as bleeding, swelling, receding gums, or bad breath and seek dental care if these occur.
  • Work with your clinician to check vitamin D status and discuss supplements only under professional guidance.
0 effect alleles (CC)

Your genotype: CC. You carry two copies of the non-effect allele at rs2069763. This suggests your IL2-related genetic risk for periodontitis is typical at this specific site. You do not carry the A variant that has been linked to altered IL2 activity in some studies.

What this can mean for you

  • No increased risk from this IL2 variant specifically, but other genes and non-genetic factors still influence gum disease risk.
  • Maintaining prevention and healthy habits remains essential to reduce overall risk.

Practical steps

  • Continue good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and an anti-inflammatory diet.
  • Avoid smoking and manage stress to reduce inflammation.
  • Consider routine checks of vitamin D and bone health when suggested by your healthcare provider.

When to talk with a professional

  • If you notice persistent gum bleeding, pain, swelling, or gum recession seek dental evaluation promptly.
  • If you have rapid tooth mobility or a history of severe periodontitis, ask about referral to a periodontist for specialized care.
  • Before starting any supplements such as vitamin D, omega-3s, calcium, or CoQ10 discuss dosing, interactions, and testing with your provider.

Important disclaimer

PlexusDx provides educational information about genetic predispositions only. This content is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or dentist before making decisions about diagnosis, treatment, or supplements. Genetics is one factor among many that influence health. Regular dental care, healthy lifestyle habits, and open communication with your clinicians are key to protecting your gum health and supporting long term wellness.