- 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.
The bacteria that inhabit the
periodontal pockets are also present on the oral soft tissues, teeth, tongue
and saliva.
They can be transferred from one person to another through saliva,
intimate kissing, sharing of food, utensils, or toothbrushes, and can result in
exposure to saliva that contain the bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
- Cold sores
Cold sores are caused by Herpes
Simplex Virus-1 (HSV-1). In contrast to infections spread through the saliva,
HSV-1 is spread through open cold sores on the lips or near the mouth. Although
the infection is contagious through all stages of a cold sore, the infection is
most contagious when the sore is open and leaking fluid.
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease,
caused by Coxsackie virus, is another infectious disease that is spread through
open sores in the mouth. This infection is common in kids, especially those in
daycare or preschool settings. It spreads primarily via the fecal-oral route, a
common problem among daycares, since changing of diapers goes on all day.
- 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 system 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.
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 take extra effort to practice
good oral hygiene, which of course includes regular brushing and flossing, and
see your dentist every six months.
Source; Red Pepper
E!News Kenya
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