Back in the 17th century, nothing was known about bacteria or how it was linked to tooth decay. In fact, brushing your teeth was only done on special occasions. The wealthy and elite usually had slightly better hygiene, but only slightly. Many historical accounts tell us that the Royals had browning teeth.
As far as we know, the first time bacteria in the mouth were detected it was by the French scientist Antony van Leeuwenhoek. He examined the film on the teeth of himself and other people in the town and found that they were alive with movement. Thanks to this discovery we now know the role bacteria plays in tooth decay and how bacteria transfers.
When you have small children, it becomes a habit to eat their leftovers or give them a bite off of your plate. This is fine, but since adult bacteria can spread to children easily, avoid sharing the same utensils. Covering your mouth when you cough and sneeze will keep bacteria from transferring to your child’s food and set a good example for them. If you have gingivitis, periodontal disease, or other oral disorders, avoid kissing your kids on the lips and opt for the cheek instead (http://www.northmiamibeachdentist.com/dental-services/periodontics-gum-disease/).
Children have a lower resistance to bacteria than adults do. They have not had the chance to build up immunities to germs and, therefore, are at particular risk for developing serious oral health issues if they are exposed to the more advanced bacteria which reside in the mouths of people with these conditions.
A healthy mouth contains 500-1,000 different types of bacteria which are beneficial. When these bacteria reproduce and are given a food source, like sugar, they stop keeping the ecological balance and become detrimental. The bacteria don’t just live on your teeth, they live on your tongue and on your gums and on your lips. When you kiss your partner for 10-seconds, 80,000,000 bacteria can be transferred.
I am not suggesting that you stop kissing your significant other, but that you consider this and keep your own oral hygiene above par. Consider not “French kissing” if you have a serious bacterial infection in your mouth and avoid kissing altogether if there is an abscess present.
The bacterial ecology between the mouths of couples is more similar than one person’s tongue is to a stranger’s tongue. This means that over time the degree to which certain bacteria exist in the mouth will be the same for two people in a relationship.
It does not just occur from kissing either. Over time, sharing toothpaste, cups, utensils, etc… will cause several types of bacteria to swap back and forth. Remember, though, these are not so bad in moderation. It is when a particularly harmful strain of bacteria enters the mouth of one partner that the other is put in danger.
Getting a dental check up every three-months is the best way to keep bacteria at bay. When you get your check-ups with the trusted Miami dentist, Dr. Jean-Jacques Edderai, (read a review at http://www.northmiamibeachdentist.com/testimonial/leon-weinschneider/) you know that you are getting world-class treatment that stops bacteria from accumulating. This not only keeps you safe, it keeps your family safe as well. After all, having gingivitis is tough, but it does not need to be given to those you love.
Copyright Dr. Jean-Jacques Edderai -2015