A Kiss is More than a Kiss

"You must remember this: A kiss is still a kiss, a sigh is just a sigh. The fundamental things apply as time goes by." These classic lyrics from the film Casablanca are a good reminder that sometimes the basic things in life have the most meaning. Take kissing, for example. Who would have thought that kissing actually might be a good way to prevent tooth erosion?

Kissing for good oral health

When you kiss someone, the salivary glands under your tongue and in your cheeks stimulate your saliva. Containing water, proteins, electrolytes, and mineral salts, saliva is important for keeping your mouth healthy. For example, saliva cleanses away the food particles and neutralizes the acids in your mouth that can cause tooth erosion and other problems.

Tooth enamel, which is one of the hardest substances in our bodies, protects the inner layers of the teeth. Because the mineral salts in saliva help to rebuild the minerals in the tooth enamel, this also helps to prevent tooth erosion.

Some medications, such as antihistamines, decongestants, pain killers, and diuretics, may reduce the flow of saliva. If your loved one is taking any of these medications, give their saliva and health a boost by kissing them often!

The dangers of kissing

Be aware, though, that periodontal disease can be transmitted through saliva. That's why the American Academy of Periodontology recommends that if one family member has periodontal disease, all of the family members should be screened as well.

Don't let the potential dangers stop you from kissing. Just be sure to practice good oral hygiene before you begin. Your loved one will thank you for it!

Smiling for romance

Want to bring more kisses and romance into your life? Focus on your oral health and attractive smile! According to a survey conducted for the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, almost everyone believes:

• A smile is an important social asset (99.7 percent).
• An attractive smile makes a person more appealing (96 percent).

The survey also concluded that what people notice the most about a smile are the teeth's straightness, whiteness, cleanliness, and completeness (any missing teeth?), as well as the sincerety and sparkle of the smile.

For more information

To ensure that your attractive smile is healthy and kissable, contact our office for regular dental checkups. We will be happy to consult with you about cosmetic enhancements (such as whitening or straightening your teeth) to make your smile even more appealing. Also, you might find the following websites useful:

• Academy of General Dentistry at http://www.agd.org/consumer/topics/decay/kissing.asp
• American Academy of Periodontology at http://www.perio.org/consumer/families.html
• Massachusetts Dental Society at http://www.massdental.org/public/wordofmouth.cfm?doc_id=538
• "What's So Great About Kissing?" at http://www.webmd.com/content/article/11/1687_51154.htm