Can Kissing Cause Cavities? - Yorktown Heights Dental - David L Lerner, DDS, PC

Focusing On Your Whole Body Health

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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 Yorktown Heights 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 Yorktown Heights 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 Yorktown Heights dental office now.

Welcoming new patients from Yorktown Heights, Putnam Valley, Mahopac, Cortland, Croton, and Somers.

Your Top-Rated & New Favorite Dentist In Yorktown Heights, NY

"I can’t thank Dr. Lerner and his staff enough, notably his assistant Nicole for expertly handling my mercury filling removals.I had it done in 2 phases and they took very good care of me on both occasions. The whole office is very pleasant, so professional and I look forward to my visits. On this most recent cleaning appointment, Linda did my cleaning. She was gentle and thorough. Highly recommend."

- Vanessa R.

"Excellent experience during my initial consultation. The most complete examination I have ever had by a dentist, including full body muscle testing. This testing uncovered major alignment issues with my jaw which has been causing a lifetime of misalignment throughout the rest of my body. Dr. Lerner and his staff are outside the box thinkers and I am very happy I have found them."

- Greg R.

"Very professional and compassionate. Love the use of Nucalm, eye mask, calming music, and making removing my mercury fillings a pleasant experience. Well as pleasant as can be. Thank you!!!"

- Jodi B.

"Been seeing Dr Lerner since I was about 11 years old, I’m now 31! I continue to see Jane for cleanings and just did the zoom whitening treatment with them in preparation of my wedding- highly recommend!"

- Chloe L.

*The reviews listed are from actual patients of The Center For Holistic Dentistry. Individual results may vary. Reviews are not claimed to represent results for everyone.

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What To Expect On Your First Visit

Our mission is to encourage full-body wellness through oral health while allowing you to feel heard and understand all your options. During your new patient exam, Dr. Lerner will spend time reviewing your health history, concerns, and goals. Your comprehensive exam will address items you may not have considered such as airway screening and dental materials sensitivity testing. We look forward to meeting you!

Comprehensive Review Of Your Health History & Concerns

Evaluation Of Teeth, Bite, Gums & Airway Passage

Low Radiation Digital X-Rays

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