Dentist reveals horror facts about kissing and poor dental hygiene
It's time to close your mouth, open your eyes, and face the cold hard facts.
We know what you're thinking - "COVID-19 has surely put a stop to any lip-smacking action for at least a year?"
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While everyone around the globe might have seen a decline in lip action, couples could still have shared some kisses and there are also those who chose not to abide by the laws.
But whether or not you're kissing anyone right not, this information will be important FOREVER.
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There is no quicker turnoff than smelling someone's bad breath, seeing those dry as the Sahara lips or looking at a smile filled with leftovers.
As it turns out, poor dental hygiene isn't just gross but someone else's bad habits can cause damage to your own smile!
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Dr Tina Saw, a cosmetic dentist and founder of Oral Genome, spoke to Insider about dental hygiene and we were not ready for the shocking knowledge that was dropped.
Most of us know that bad dental habits and hygiene can lead to gum disease, plaque buildup, and it can create a breeding ground for bacteria, but little did we know that this is all transferable.
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Saliva keeps our mouths moist and is a great medium for oral bacteria to thrive in, so whenever you're swapping saliva with your partner, within 10 seconds of kissing you can exchange around 80-million bacteria and microorganisms.
While good bacteria is more than welcome, bad bacteria can cause some major issues.
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But how do you address the topic without offending your partner?
This can be quite a touchy subject if your boo's oral hygiene is poor. Talk to them gently about the subject and assist with developing a plan of good oral hygiene habits. Encourage them to eat healthy, exercise, and brush and floss with you. Brush together twice a day and two minutes each time. Floss by having the floss 'hug' your teeth and create a C-shaped curve to get into the gum pockets.
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As if we needed an excuse to eat more cheese, Dr Saw says that nuts and cheese are great for boosting dental health, while scheduling dentist appointments together will motivate the other to go and help keep you both accountable.
These simple tips will have you smiling all day long.
And a couple that flosses together, stays together.
Main image courtesy of iStock