Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gum and tissues that hold your teeth in place. The disease results from poor oral hygiene, but some risk factors contribute to it. These include smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes due to pregnancy, and certain medication, which cause mouth dryness. People with gum disease can spread it to others through kissing and sharing utensils. If untreated, gum disease can result in loss of teeth.
Kissing
Prolonged kissing between couples or a mother and child can spread gum disease. If an individual has gum disease, they can spread it to their partner by exchanging bacteria in their saliva. During pregnancy, mothers experience hormonal changes that predispose them to gum disease. If the disease is not treated, the mother might spread it to their babies through kissing. Also, given that babies have weak immunity, their probability of contracting the disease is high.
Sharing Utensils and Personal Items
Since saliva is the primary medium for spreading bacteria, people with gum diseases can spread it through sharing utensils. When a person with gum disease uses a cup or spoon, bacteria in their saliva remain on the utensil's surface and will spread to the next person. Also, sharing personal items such as toothbrushes will spread bacteria to your mouth, making you susceptible to gum disease. While kissing and sharing utensils spread the bacteria that cause gum disease, you should not worry if you unknowingly come into contact with the saliva of someone with gum disease. If you practice good oral hygiene and your immunity is strong, your chances of contracting the disease are low. Regular dental exams and cleanings will also enable early detection and treatment of gum disease to prevent further spread. Contact our office today for more information on how you can prevent the spread of gum disease.
Dental Blog | Dentist Menasha, WI | Mid Valley Dental, S.C. Michael J. Wockenfus, DDS created a blog to educate the community. It is your resource for all dentistry questions. Learn and read topics in the blog here! Mid Valley Dental, SC, 903 E. Airport Road, Menasha, WI 54952 \ (920) 215-4160 \ midvalleydental.com \ 10/10/2024 \ Key Phrases: dentist Menasha WI \
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gum and tissues that hold your teeth in place. The disease results from poor oral hygiene, but some risk factors contribute to it. These include smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes due to pregnancy, and certain medication, which cause mouth dryness. People with gum disease can spread it to others through kissing and sharing utensils. If untreated, gum disease can result in loss of teeth.
