Riya Baibhawi

Kissing Is Dangerous To Your Health-Here's How You Can Ensure Safety

Kissing

The coronavirus pandemic made us realise that <span>kissing</span> could be perilous to health. Now research has found that kissing could also take a toll on your teeth. It is because your mouth is a major entry point for bacteria, yeasts, fungi and all other types of infection. Health experts warn that these microorganisms can get into your body through your mucosal tissue, saliva, swallowing, or even by being breathed into your lungs. In other words, your mouth is a hotspot for spreading all kinds of germs—including the ones that cause cavities and gum disease. 

There is empirical evidence that has confirmed that dental cavities and gum disease can be caused by contagious bacteria being spread through activities such as kissing and interestingly, we have found that romantic couples will oftentimes influence each other's microbiome. 

<h2>Why Oral Hygiene Matters: Risks of Kissing</h2>

Brushing your teeth is not just about fresh breath—it could also help you protect your partner's <span>dental health</span>. According to health experts, couples often unknowingly share gum disease. "I've seen many cases where one partner develops gum disease, and a few months later, the other shows similar symptoms," dental health expert Katrina Sander told a leading media outlet. When couples visit the dentist together, they're often surprised by simultaneous diagnoses. 

It's not just romantic partners who need to be cautious. Mothers should prioritize oral hygiene to prevent transferring decay-causing bacteria to their babies. "The top risk factor for babies developing cavities is their mother having cavities because kissing often spreads harmful bacteria," Sanders emphasised. 

Be mindful of others who kiss your baby as well. A family member with poor oral health or a pet licking a baby’s face may introduce bacteria. While cute moments with pets make great social media content, Sanders reminds parents that animals can influence a baby's oral microbiome in unexpected ways.

<h2>How To Ensure Oral Hygiene While Kissing?</h2>

So, what can you do to reduce this risk? Sanders recommends seeing a dentist regularly and ensuring you're treated for any active oral disease. Your dental hygienist can suggest ways to keep your mouth's immune system strong while preventing the transmission of bacteria to others. "Things to help strengthen your oral immune system, like a healthy diet, stable pH in the mouth, good rest, appropriate breathing habits, and appropriate routine oral hygiene practices at home, are important," she said.

Even if you're one of those people who love to kiss others to show your affection, you don't have to give that up or start wearing a mask while smooching. Just be sure to take care of your own mouth. Sanders points out that kissing actually has some surprising benefits for your oral health. "Kissing will typically increase saliva flow, and saliva has many antibacterial and healing properties," she said. "Additionally, kissing releases internal chemicals like dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin which can reduce inflammation and boost immunity."

So, while there are risks involved, a little extra attention to your oral hygiene can go a long way. With a healthy mouth, you can enjoy those affectionate moments — all while helping protect yourself and others.   

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The coronavirus pandemic made us realise that kissing could be perilous to health. Now research has found that kissing could also take a toll on your teeth. It is because your mouth is a major entry point for bacteria, yeasts, fungi and all other types of infection. Health experts warn that these microorganisms can get into your body through your mucosal tissue, saliva, swallowing, or even by being breathed into your lungs. In other words, your mouth is a hotspot for spreading all kinds of germs—including the ones that cause cavities and gum disease. There is empirical evidence that has confirmed that dental cavities and gum disease can be caused by contagious bacteria being spread through activities such as kissing and interestingly, we have found that romantic couples will oftentimes influence each other's microbiome. Why Oral Hygiene Matters: Risks of KissingBrushing your teeth is not just about fresh breath—it could also help you protect your partner's dental health. According to health experts, couples often unknowingly share gum disease. "I've seen many cases where one partner develops gum disease, and a few months later, the other shows similar symptoms," dental health expert Katrina Sander told a leading media outlet. When couples visit the dentist together, they're often surprised by simultaneous diagnoses. It's not just romantic partners who need to be cautious. Mothers should prioritize oral hygiene to prevent transferring decay-causing bacteria to their babies. "The top risk factor for babies developing cavities is their mother having cavities because kissing often spreads harmful bacteria," Sanders emphasised. Be mindful of others who kiss your baby as well. A family member with poor oral health or a pet licking a baby’s face may introduce bacteria. While cute moments with pets make great social media content, Sanders reminds parents that animals can influence a baby's oral microbiome in unexpected ways.How To Ensure Oral Hygiene While Kissing?So, what can you do to reduce this risk? Sanders recommends seeing a dentist regularly and ensuring you're treated for any active oral disease. Your dental hygienist can suggest ways to keep your mouth's immune system strong while preventing the transmission of bacteria to others. "Things to help strengthen your oral immune system, like a healthy diet, stable pH in the mouth, good rest, appropriate breathing habits, and appropriate routine oral hygiene practices at home, are important," she said.Even if you're one of those people who love to kiss others to show your affection, you don't have to give that up or start wearing a mask while smooching. Just be sure to take care of your own mouth. Sanders points out that kissing actually has some surprising benefits for your oral health. "Kissing will typically increase saliva flow, and saliva has many antibacterial and healing properties," she said. "Additionally, kissing releases internal chemicals like dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin which can reduce inflammation and boost immunity."So, while there are risks involved, a little extra attention to your oral hygiene can go a long way. With a healthy mouth, you can enjoy those affectionate moments — all while helping protect yourself and others.   