You may have heard that cavities are contagious, but is this really true? Can you get cavities from kissing? Yes, in a technical sense, cavities are contagious and transmissible from person to person. However, that doesn’t mean that you should be overly worried about this happening to you. In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and what to do to minimize the risks of getting a cavity. Keep reading to learn more!
Why Are Cavities Contagious?
To understand why cavities are contagious, you first need to know a little bit about them.
Cavities Are A Result of Bacteria in the Mouth
Cavities are caused by tooth decay, which is the result of bacteria in your mouth (specifically Streptococcus mutans) breaking down sugars and other food particles. When this happens, the bacteria release acids that eat away at your tooth enamel, causing dental caries (or cavities) to form. These bacteria are normally found in the mouth, however, the increased amount of sugar in the diet has tipped the balance from health to disease.
Bacteria Can Pass From Mouth to Mouth
These bacteria are passed from person to person through saliva, which is why cavities are considered contagious. When you kiss someone or share a drink with them, you are also sharing the bacteria that cause cavities. Additionally, if you share utensils or a toothbrush with someone who has cavities, you are also at risk of getting them yourself.
Just Because A Person Doesn’t Have Cavities Doesn’t Mean You Can’t Get One From Them
Even if a person doesn’t have any cavities themselves, they can still pass the bacteria that causes them to other people. This is especially the case for people who have poor oral hygiene or who don’t brush their teeth regularly. Therefore, it’s important to be cautious when sharing drinks, kissing, or using utensils with others.
This is very commonly seen in children, as they are more likely to share drinks, kiss, and use utensils with their parents and guardians. As a result, children are more likely to get cavities from the adults in their lives and vice versa.
How Can You Prevent Cavities?
Even if you are sharing saliva with people with poor oral hygiene, there are a few things that you can do to prevent or even reverse cavities.
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Eat a healthy diet
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Visit your dentist regularly
By following these simple tips, you can help prevent cavities and keep your mouth healthy. Remember, even if someone has cavities, you don’t have to get them too! Just be sure to take care of your mouth and see your dentist regularly.
Disclaimer
The contents of this website, such as text, graphics, images, and other material are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be substituted for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing on this website constitutes the practice of medicine, law or any other regulated profession.
No two mouths are the same, and each oral situation is unique. As such, it isn’t possible to give comprehensive advice or diagnose oral conditions based on articles alone. The best way to ensure you’re getting the best dental care possible is to visit a dentist in person for an examination and consultation.
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