Kissing Under The Mistletoe & Oral Health

Getting caught kissing under the mistletoe is a long-time holiday tradition that spans centuries. But did you know that this holiday smooch can also lead to some unwanted problems? Of course, kissing anyone can transfer cold or viruses, but your dentist in Rocky Mount also knows that smooches may also increase your risk for cavities.  

From Kissing to Cavities

How exactly does someone catch a cavity from kissing? Well, it’s a little complicated, and in fact, cavities aren’t technically contagious. However, the bacteria that can cause cavities are. Our mouths are home to thousands of different types of bacteria, some are good bacteria and some are bad. These bacteria can be swapped back and forth between two kissers, and if one of you has an abundance of bad bacteria, it can increase the risk for cavities. But don’t worry, it’s not all bad news. 

Benefits of Kissing

There are both whole-body and oral health benefits associated with kissing. From an overall wellness perspective, kissing can release endorphins and make us happier, work out facial muscles, and may even burn a calorie or two. When it comes to kissing and oral health, we already covered how good bacteria can transfer from person to person, but your dentist in Rocky Mount doesn’t want to forget about the saliva. Yes, we’re talking about spit. While that may sound gross, spit is an important part of oral health. Saliva helps wash away excess bacteria and neutralizes acids that can wear away tooth enamel. When we kiss, saliva production increases and can further protect oral health.

Kiss Safely 

Kissing a great way to show someone that you love them, but as we know now, it doesn’t come without risks. Kissing someone who is sick can spread illness very easily since germs and viruses are also swapped through saliva. It can also increase someone’s risk of cavities. But this doesn’t mean you have to stop smooching altogether. There are things you can do to reduce your risk of spreading (or catching) cavity-causing bacteria through kissing such as: 

• Brushing and flossing regularly

• Rinsing your mouth with water between brushings

• Chewing Xylitol gum

• Seeing your dentist in Rocky Mount twice a year 

Don’t forget, kissing is a two-way street, so both you and your partner should follow the tips above to protect yourselves from catching anything besides a healthy, happy mistletoe kiss.

About The Author

Dr. Richard Hunt

Dr. Richard Hunt has served as president of the NC Dental Society and the Dental Foundation of NC. He is the director and past chair of the LD Pankey Foundation and former chair of the Dental Assisting National Board. Dr. Hunt regularly teaches at the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education and the UNC Adams School of Dentistry. An active member of the American Dental Association, he has represented his peers from NC, SC, and VA on the ADA’s Council on Dental Practice.

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