Kissing is as good for teeth as BRUSHING, dentist claims
KISSING is as good for teeth as brushing, a dentist claims.
Smooching boosts saliva production and clears the mouth of the bad bacteria and acids that cause decay.
Orthodontist Dr Khaled Kasem said people should kiss for four minutes a day on top of brushing and flossing.
He said: “The main benefit of kissing is that it produces more saliva in your mouth.
“Saliva neutralises the acids that sit on your teeth which helps to reduce your risk of getting tooth decay. It can also wash bacteria off your teeth to reduce stubborn oral plaque.
“So keep kissing if you want nice breath and healthy teeth.”
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A daily snog also reduces infection risk because bacteria from your partner’s saliva boost your immune system — and vice versa.
Other health benefits include stress relief, thanks to love hormones, and more youthful looks from exercising the face muscles.
But lovers might swap bad bacteria and boost the risk of decay if one of them already has dental problems.
Dr Kasem, chief of Impress orthodontics, added: “The only negative impact of kissing is when people are sick, have a cold sore or already have bad oral hygiene. Otherwise kiss away — but keep brushing and flossing.”
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The British Dental Association said snacking, sipping fizzy drinks and not cleaning your teeth thoroughly all raise the risk of tooth decay.
A BDA spokesperson said: “Kissing is no substitute for following a good oral hygiene routine.”
