Kissing comes with risks. You might fall in love, catch a cold, or be grossed out by bad breath. But did you know that kissing someone with poor oral hygiene could increase your risk for cavities? At my El Paso dental office, we want to explain how this frightening, yet very true, cavity swap can happen.

What Causes a Cavity?

Cavities are caused by the bacteria that naturally form around your teeth and on your gums. Regular cleanings and good oral hygiene keeps that bacteria in check. But when it’s allowed to build up, the bacteria keep multiplying. When this happens, they create acid that eats away at enamel and leads to a cavities. And just like any other virus or bacteria, the ones in your mouth don’t stay put. They can be transferred from one mouth to another. Yep. They are contagious.

It’s Not Just Kissing

Kissing isn’t the only way the bacteria that causes cavities can be transferred from one person to another. People with poor oral hygiene put others at risk doing other activities including:

• Sharing utensils or straws
• Using someone else’s toothbrush (gross!)
• Splitting food

We have heard of people who never had cavities in their lives, suddenly have several after beginning to date someone with gum disease or poor oral hygiene!

Lower Your Risk of Infecting Someone Else

While you can’t necessarily control your partner’s oral health, you can definitely control your own.

• Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day
• Floss at least once every single day
• Don’t use tobacco
• Scrub your tongue
• Maintain regular visits with your El Paso dentist

Follow these tips and you’re sure to please your partner not only because your kisses will be fresh, but also because you’re not infecting them with cavity-causing bacteria. Now that’s love!

If you keep up with your own oral hygiene, be careful about who you are “swapping spit” with. If you have become a little lax in your habits, show consideration for anyone you might want to share the love with by scheduling a professional cleaning at my El Paso dental office now.

Welcoming new patients from El Paso,Las Cruces, and Cloudcroft.

About The Author

Dr. David M. Rizk

Dr. David M. Rizk, recognized as the Best Dentist in America in 2004-2005, focuses on treating patients who have given up on their dental care. He is a member of several dental organizations, including the Academy of General Dentistry and the Las Vegas Institute. He obtained fellowship accreditation from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and is a fellow at the Misch International Implant Institute. Dr. Rizk contributes to different dental journals, being an expert in his field.

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