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 aren’t usually worth worrying about, that changes if one of you has a cut or sore in your mouth. Experts say that any time there’s an open sore and/or blood present, theoretically, an infection could be transmitted orally.
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.
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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.
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Even if your partner has gum disease, you don’t have to stop smooching. Just take extra effort to practice good oral hygiene, which of course includes regular brushing and flossing, and see your dentist every six months.
