While microbial exchange during kissing is generally harmless for those in good health, several infectious diseases can be transmitted through saliva.
The Mystery Behind Intimate Kissing
Mouth-to-mouth contact is common in various animals, but the unique and intimate act of kissing, involving tongue contact and saliva exchange, is predominantly human and prevalent in over 90% of cultures. The question is: Why?
Theories on Intimate Kissing
Some suggest that intimate kissing helps individuals assess and choose partners based on the chemical signals in saliva. Others propose that it evolved to safeguard pregnant women from infections transmitted through saliva, potentially immunizing them before pregnancy.
In reality, these ideas are speculative, and the true purpose of human kissing remains unknown. Regardless of whether it’s partner selection or immune protection, the multitude of microbes in our mouths plays a significant role.
Microbial Exchange During Kissing
In a 2014 study, researchers analyzed mouth microbes in 21 couples after controlled intimate kisses. The findings revealed that couples exchange their tongue microbiota during a kiss, with the transferred bacteria lingering in saliva for hours.
Surprisingly, the more frequent the kisses, the more similar the saliva microbes become. The study even quantified the bacterial exchange, revealing that a 10-second kiss involves swapping around 80 million bacteria.
Understanding the Oral Microbiome
The oral microbiome comprises a diverse community of microorganisms in the mouth, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other single-celled organisms. While most of these microbes have positive effects, some can lead to oral and non-oral diseases.
More than 700 bacterial species inhabit the oral cavity, contributing to digestion, protection against pathogens, and immune system regulation. However, a few can cause diseases like dental issues, cardiovascular problems, diabetes, and respiratory diseases.
Notably, certain oral pathogens may even pose risks for cognitive impairments and dementia associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Herpes and Other Risks
Herpes, including the Epstein-Barr virus causing infectious mononucleosis, can be easily transmitted through kissing, resulting in symptoms like fever, sore throat, and fatigue.
Cytomegalovirus, another herpes type, poses risks for immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women.
Apart from herpes, various bacteria and viruses causing conditions like caries, pharyngitis, and respiratory infections can be transmitted through kissing. This includes papillomavirus, fungi like Candida albicans causing candidiasis, and more.
Maintaining Oral Health for Safe Kissing
Factors like diet, oral hygiene, smoking, and alcohol consumption influence the oral microbiota’s composition and health. To prevent disease transmission through kissing, it is crucial to maintain a healthy balance in the oral microbiota.
This involves regular and proper oral care practices such as brushing teeth and tongue, using dental floss and mouthwash in moderation, visiting the dentist regularly, limiting sugar intake, and avoiding smoking.
The above information has been fact-checked by researchers at WebMD.