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The idea that cavities could be contagious has sparked considerable interest and concern, especially among parents. In a TikTok video that went viral, Dr. Mia Thompson, a dentist from Dallas, made the bold assertion that dental decay can be transmitted from one person to another. This revelation led many to question whether sharing kisses with a partner who has tooth issues could pose a risk, and it also left parents pondering if their children could “catch” cavities.
Dr. Thompson’s video featured her pondering the implications of kissing her partner, who has cavities, and stated, “That’s just the reality of cavities being contagious.” The claim caught the attention of various media outlets, including The Health Journal, which consulted Dr. Alan Richards, a professor of dentistry at the University of Florida. He confirmed that certain strains of bacteria linked to tooth decay can indeed be transferred through saliva, particularly during close contact like kissing.
Dr. Richards cautioned, “If your partner has severe decay, it’s wise to encourage them to seek dental help.” However, he emphasized that just because you might acquire these bacteria doesn’t guarantee you’ll develop cavities, particularly if you maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. “Most of us carry decay-causing bacteria, but with proper care, we can prevent cavities,” he noted.
Cavities and Kids
So, can parents inadvertently pass decay-causing bacteria to their kids? Pediatric dentist Dr. Emily Harper, practicing in Seattle, weighed in on this topic. While she refrained from labeling cavities as contagious, she acknowledged that bacteria can be transferred between individuals. “Although most parents don’t kiss their kids on the mouth, it’s a good idea to avoid sharing utensils or using your mouth to clean a pacifier,” she advised.
Dr. Harper also highlighted the importance of maintaining your own dental health to minimize the bacteria you might pass onto your child. She explained, “If your cavities are treated, your bacteria levels will be lower, reducing the risk of transmission.” Parents should be particularly vigilant during their child’s early teething stages, as new teeth can be more susceptible to decay.
Despite the potential for bacteria transmission, Dr. Harper reassured parents that they shouldn’t overly worry about “catching” cavities. “Many children will encounter these bacteria regardless of their environment, so focus on proper dental care instead,” she stated. “Brushing, flossing, and a balanced diet are the key factors in preventing cavities, far more than the risk of bacteria from others.”
If you’re interested in learning more about the implications of dental health on overall wellness, check out one of our other blog posts about home insemination for insights on related health topics. Additionally, for those looking to boost fertility, Make a Mom’s fertility supplements are an excellent resource. For a deeper understanding of treating infertility, visit ACOG’s page on treating infertility.
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In summary, while the idea that cavities could be contagious has merit, it is essential to prioritize good oral hygiene and regular dental visits over concerns of bacteria transmission. Maintaining a healthy mouth can significantly reduce the risk of cavities, making it less of a worry for both parents and children.
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