Knowing a potential significant other’s sexually transmitted disease status is mandatory these days. But is there even more to be concerned about?
It seems as though before you even kiss goodnight, you may want to check your date’s dental records. According to a study conducted by the University of Louisville, cavities can be transmitted through swapping spit, just like colds and flu. In fact, some experts estimate that up to 500 different germs can be transmitted in a single kiss.
Saliva and the mouth contain numerous bacteria and viruses, including those responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. According to Fletcher Dental Care, one of the key bacteria involved in cavities is Streptococcus mutans, which thrives in sugary environments and contributes to tooth decay. Kissing someone with active gum disease or a high concentration of cavity-causing bacteria can introduce these harmful microorganisms to a partner who may have previously had lower levels of these bacteria. If the recipient of the kiss has poor oral hygiene habits, it increases the likelihood that the bacteria will cause problems, potentially leading to cavities or gum disease. Studies show that Streptococcus mutans can be transmitted through saliva exchange, such as kissing or sharing utensils.
1. Periodontitis
In a dental care article published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, it was revealed that periodontitis might be passed from parents to children and between intimate partners.
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The bacteria that contribute to periodontal disease, which resides in the periodontal pockets of the gums, can indeed be found in other areas of the mouth, including the teeth, tongue, oral soft tissues, and saliva. These bacteria can be transmitted between individuals through saliva, including activities such as intimate kissing, sharing food, utensils, or even toothbrushes. This transfer of bacteria can potentially expose others to the harmful microorganisms that cause gum disease
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2. Herpes
Oral herpes is commonly called “cold sores” or “fever blisters.” It’s transmitted through direct contact between an infected area and broken skin or a mucous membrane. More than 50 percent of the U.S. adult population has oral herpes, but symptoms aren’t always visible.
Unfortunately, once you contract the virus, it stays with you forever. Additionally, oral herpes, caused by the herpes simplex type 1 strain, can cause genital herpes. Experts estimate that over 20 percent of new genital herpes cases are caused by herpes simplex type 1 transmitted through oral sex.
3. Syphilis
Syphilis is a highly infectious condition. The sores, which are usually round and open, combine to make syphilis transmissible through kissing. Kissing isn’t the most common way to transmit syphilis—oral, anal, and vaginal sex still rank higher. But syphilis rates are currently on the rise, according to the CDC, so this is important to share. If you or your partner has syphilis-related sores in your mouth, they (and the virus itself) should clear up with the help of doctor-prescribed antibiotics.
While the chances of passing infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HIV through saliva are generally low, the risk increases if there is an open sore or cut in the mouth. In particular, throat gonorrhea can be transmitted through oral contact, including kissing, especially if one partner has an infection. Any time there’s an open wound or blood present, there is a theoretical risk of transmitting infections orally. Experts emphasize that the presence of sores or blood increases the likelihood of infections like gonorrhea being spread through oral interactions
4. Strep Throat
“Strep” bacteria are highly contagious, and they spread through airborne droplets. This means that tiny droplets containing the bacteria are released into the air when someone with strep breathes, coughs, kisses someone or sneezes.
To prevent transmission of periodontitis between family members or intimate partners, it is important to follow proper dental care and oral hygiene techniques that include daily brushing and flossing and to see a dental care provider routinely and possibly a Periodontist for professional cleanings and examinations.
Now, the good news: Most people have natural defenses in their immune systems that protect them from infection. However, if you do have gum issues, it is a good idea to avoid kissing infants and those with compromised immune systems (including people with chronic diseases) on the mouth, says Reynolds.
5. Mumps
Mumps is a viral infection that affects the salivary glands, causing them to swell. It usually spreads via airborne droplets from the nose or throat of an infected person. Easily preventable by vaccine, this disease is no longer as common as it once was, though outbreaks in unvaccinated groups still sporadically occur.
Symptoms typically include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and loss of appetite. Recovering from mumps takes about two weeks, and treatment usually focuses on relieving the symptoms.
And don’t let wet kisses scare you: In fact, bacteria are more likely to lurk in a dry mouth.
Even if your partner has gum disease, you don’t have to stop smooching. Just make the extra effort to practice good oral hygiene, which of course includes regular brushing and flossing, and see your dentist every six months.
Medically Reviewed By:
Lisa Fitzpatrick
Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick is a board-certified infectious diseases physician and medical epidemiologist with a background in public health. She is the founder and CEO of Grapevine Health, a digital health media company focused on improving patient engagement among Medicaid patients through culturally relevant health information.
