A KISS is just a kiss, croons Louis Armstrong in the song “As Time Goes By”.
Well, yes and no. True, a kiss is just a kiss just as much as a “sigh is just a sigh,” as Mr. Armstrong continues in the classic song.
Not to belittle the kiss, beautiful as it is. Be careful, though, when kissing someone with poor oral health.
If you do, something might smell awful, and we don’t mean the bad breath only.
And, would you believe, it can ruin your smile too.
We’re not making this up. If you have oral health issues, such as gum disease, kissing will spread bacteria around. It’s true. Saliva is a breeding ground for bacteria.
Kissing spreads saliva around. And so with bacteria. That means it’s possible to spread the gum disease too.
While it’s impossible not to spread bacteria through saliva while kissing, it can be avoided. Start by brushing your teeth ideally after each and every meal, or at least twice a day, perhaps after waking up in the morning then before going to sleep at night.
Have that good old-fashioned checkup and cleaning with your friendly neighborhood dentist. At least twice a year.
One final word. If and when kissing cannot be avoided, tell your partner – very, very gently – that her or his breath smells odd. And that he or she might have some dental issues.
And that both of you might well discuss it first so that the issue is not spread around. Perhaps visit the dentist too. (There’s nothing wrong if you can do it together.)
While pandemic times have somewhat changed the way people visit the dental clinic, it can still be done. It is even encouraged.
Check with your dentist. Schedule an appointment. And follow the health protocols prescribed, such as putting the correct distance from other patients, wearing a face mask and following instructions.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim is the former Associate Dean of the UE College of Dentistry, former Dean of the College of Dentistry, National University, past president and honorary fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy, and honorary fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists and Honorary Life Member of Thai Association of Dental Implantology. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515./PN
