It's hard to refute the anecdotal evidence out there, but generally the answer is NO. Just because your parents or grandparents had "bad teeth" doesn't mean you are doomed to the same fate, and shouldn't be used as an excuse to explain the dental missteps you may experience. While it could be said that "family influence" or the way you were raised is the early basis for most good (or bad) dental hygiene habits; generally speaking, the health of your teeth and gums has more to do with the quality of your diet and current home care routine than your family history.