What are the Pros & Cons of Kissing? Ask your Chicago Dentist!

We all know that February is the month when we all feel a bit more in love. We hug more, cuddle more, and kiss more. At Smile Group of Highland Park’s Highland Park and Chicago Heights dental office, we’d like to take you away from your partner for just a minute to talk a bit about the pros and cons of kissing, and how it can affect your oral health.

When you want to know more about kissing, your dentist in Highland Park and Chicago Heights may not be the first person you think to turn to for advice. But we’re the experts in everything oral health related so there’s actually nobody better!

Kissing, like almost anything, not only has its benefits, it also has some disadvantages. Since we’re feeling the love that February brings, let’s cover the positives first. Kissing is actually good for your teeth. Smooching increases saliva production, and saliva helps remove food particles and cavity-causing bacteria, so it protects teeth from decay and neutralizes acids.

But kissing also has some dangers lurking behind those locked lips. We all know that kissing is a great way to spread germs, colds, and the flu. What some people may not know is that kissing can also share cold sores, Mononucleosis (Mono, or the kissing disease), and even gum disease.

Does that mean we recommend no more kissing? Of course not! But we do recommend keeping your mouth healthy and free of gum disease and dangerous bacteria that can be easily transferred from one person to another. The best way to make sure your mouth is kissable is to keep up with your professional cleanings and checkups with your Chicago Heights and Highland Park dentist. If you’re in need of a cleaning or checkup during this kiss-filled holiday, call Smile Group of Highland Park today!