Fact Check: "Can you get teeth disease through kissing?"
What We Know
Kissing can transmit various germs, including those that cause tooth decay. According to the Better Health Channel, saliva can carry bacteria that are responsible for dental diseases. Specifically, the bacteria that cause tooth decay are not present in the mouths of newborns; they must be introduced through contact with infected saliva, which can occur during kissing. This indicates that kissing can indeed facilitate the transfer of bacteria associated with dental issues.
Additionally, a fact check from Truth or Fake confirms that while kissing can exchange bacteria linked to dental diseases, the actual transmission of disease depends on various factors, including the oral health of the individuals involved. The Cleveland Clinic also notes that while gum disease may not be caught through casual contact, prolonged exposure through saliva, such as kissing, can increase the risk of developing gum disease.
Analysis
The claim that kissing can lead to dental diseases is supported by multiple credible sources. The Better Health Channel provides a straightforward explanation of how bacteria responsible for tooth decay can be transmitted through saliva during kissing. This source is reliable as it is maintained by a government health department, which typically ensures accuracy and thoroughness in health-related information.
The Truth or Fake fact check adds nuance by stating that while bacteria can be exchanged, the extent to which this leads to disease is uncertain and often depends on the individual's oral health. This critical perspective is essential, as it highlights that not everyone who kisses an individual with poor oral health will necessarily develop dental issues.
Moreover, the Cleveland Clinic's insights into the relationship between kissing and gum disease further reinforce the idea that prolonged contact through saliva can increase risk, although it does not guarantee transmission. This source is also credible, being a well-respected medical institution.
In contrast, sources like Ask the Dentist suggest that gum disease is multifactorial and not solely dependent on bacterial transmission through kissing, which adds complexity to the discussion but does not negate the potential risk involved.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that you can get teeth disease through kissing is true. Evidence from multiple reputable sources indicates that kissing can facilitate the transmission of bacteria linked to dental diseases, particularly tooth decay and gum disease. While the risk may vary based on individual health factors, the potential for disease transmission exists, making the claim valid.
Sources
- Kissing and your health
- Human tooth - Wikipedia
- Fact Check: Can you get teeth disease though kissing?
- Is periodontal disease contagious?
- Teeth names: Diagram, types, and functions - Medical News Today
- Can You Get Gum Disease From Kissing Someone? - Ask the Dentist
- Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
- Teeth: Anatomy, Types, Function & Care - Cleveland Clinic