Kissing is one of the universal expressions of affection and can be found in nearly every culture. Kissing can vary from a quick peck to a long, intimate smooch.
On the other hand, kissing on the lips is typically reserved for more intimate relationships — and it’s easy to see why.
Although everyone seems to know how to kiss these days, but are you aware of the disadvantages of kissing?
No matter how skilled you are at Kissing, you may have made some hilarious kissing-related inquiries, including “Can excessive kissing harm our lips?” “What makes light kissing and intense kissing different?” But hold on, are you actually skilled at kissing? Nowadays, everyone seems proficient in kissing; nevertheless, are you aware of the side effects of kissing?
Due to several myths about teen pregnancies and the spreading of sexually transmitted infections (STI), we are curious to find answers to several questions such as “Can lip kisses cause pregnancy?” “Can you get sick from kissing?” “Does lip kissing affect periods?” Today we are going to answer all your questions related to the act of kissing.
No matter what appears on the surface to be the benefits of kissing and what could be said about kissing, whether lips or “deep kissing” and the “when you kiss someone, and they feel right” common sayings. In reality, kissing alone has several drawbacks that you should avoid if possible. Let’s explore the drawbacks of kissing in detail.
Table of Contents
Side Effects of Kissing
Kissing may be fun, but kissing the wrong person could also introduce your body to hundreds of different types of bacteria and viruses, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).
In fact, Kissing may be responsible for 500 different health problems, including colds, Flu, herpes, laryngitis, stomach ulcers, tooth decay, and tonsillitis, according to the ADA.
So, let’s dive in to explore all the possible disadvantages of kissing.
Kissing can transfer bacteria that can be a cause of many bacterial diseases
Mouths can serve as a pathway for germs because they’re connected to the digestive system and respiratory tract, two places where germs often live. According to Dr. Kelly Reynolds, a microbiologist at Arizona State University’s School of Medicine, USA, people who seem to be completely healthy may actually harbor bacteria in their mouths. That means we could pass along infectious diseases without realizing it.
As you may expect, open-mouth kissing is particularly risky. It transmits more germs than closed-mouth Kissing, and the more bacteria you breathe in, the more likely you’ll get sick.
Although the best solution is to not kiss at all, which might seem impractical, the best thing you can do from your end is to avoid kissing a person who is not well, has Flu, running nose, or any other signs of disease.
Kissing can spread viruses like meningitis and mononucleosis
According to Reynold, they’re two of the most commonly transmitted diseases via Kissing. Because the mono virus can persist for up to 6 months in some people, often causing severe fatigue, and meningitis — an inflammation of the membranes around your brain and spine — can last up to 10 days, sometimes causing permanent and potentially deadly damage, neither condition is remotely desirable.
Kissing can also lead to sexually transmitted infection
Kissing can lead to a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) – Microbes that cause Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Herpes, and HPV can be passed through saliva. Often asymptomatic, they can quickly be passed between partners in acts such as an innocent kiss.
The risk of contracting these STIs increases when someone has multiple sexual partners & engages in anal sex or oral sex. You should be tested immediately if you do not know whether you have been exposed to any of these diseases.
Kissing can cause cold sores
Kissing can spread herpes viruses, which are transmitted through direct contact with infected cells. People with active cold sore infections should avoid kissing others until they’ve healed completely. If you’re concerned about getting sick from a kiss, use a barrier such as dental dams or lip balm when you kiss someone.
Kissing can expose you to blood-borne viruses like HIV
While HIV is usually transmitted through blood, vaginal fluids, and sex, it can also be transmitted during a kiss if both partners have gum rips. Strong flossing, excessively forceful brushing or early-stage gingivitis (a gum disease that causes irritation & swelling of the gum) can also cause gum tears that present a possibility for blood to be exchanged.
The best way to prevent getting HIV from kissing is to avoid bleeding gum disease since these conditions increase the risk of transmitting the virus. If you do develop gingivitis, use dental floss to clean between your teeth instead of using your finger. Also, don’t share razors or toothbrushes with anyone with open sores.
Kissing can cause cavities and gum diseases
Kissing can give you not only colds, the Flu, mononucleosis, or a bad batch of herpes but also, like so many sweet things, it could also give you cavities! What? Does kissing help prevent cavities?
The answer is yes, and no. Yes, because Kissing helps prevent tooth decay by removing plaque (a sticky film) between your teeth. No, because Kissing can also transfer bacteria from one mouth into another that can cause cavities by eating away at tooth enamel.
The same is true if someone transfers bacteria into your mouth from their gums or tongue. Gum disease is caused by transferring bacteria from one mouth into the other, so it is possible that oral sex can transfer these diseases.
To avoid getting cavities, you should brush your teeth after eating and drink plenty of water.
Kissing can trigger a serious allergic reaction
Kissing can trigger a severe allergic reaction, especially for those who have allergies to pollen, latex, or nuts. If you kiss someone with these allergies, they may experience symptoms such as hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and chest tightness. People with food allergies should be careful when kissing someone else since certain foods can cause severe reactions.
It is important to know about each other’s food and drinks so that you don’t accidentally kiss someone who has eaten something you’re allergic to.
If you are unsure whether you should kiss someone, ask them first. Also, avoid kissing when your immune system is compromised, such as after surgery or chemotherapy.
What diseases can be transmitted through Kissing?
An intimate 10-second kiss can transfer over 80 million bacteria. Though this may benefit some long-term couples by diversifying their oral bacteria (and thus increasing their resistance to other microorganisms), exchanging saliva can frequently transfer illnesses.
Unfortunately, no one is immune to the disease-spreading dangers of kissing. Though people in long-term relationships may fare slightly better, anyone can become ill in this manner.
Let us explore in detail the diseases spread through Kissing (saliva transmission).
Kissing can lead to a cold sore (Herpes)
Oral herpes is most often called cold sores or fever blisters. It is transmitted through direct contact between the mouth and an open wound or mucous membrane.
Unfortunately, once you have contracted the virus, it stays within your body forever. Furthermore, oral herpes, caused primarily by the Herpes Simplex Type I strain, can also lead to genital herpes. Experts estimate approximately twenty percent of new genital herpes infections are due to HSV1 transmission via oral sex.
Kissing can cause Cytomegalovirus
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) – also called human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), is a member of the Herpesviridae family. HCMV is one of the most common human viral infections, affecting around 50% of people worldwide. It causes mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, tiredness, headache, and muscle ache. However, severe complications may occur if the infection is not treated early.
Though this virus can affect almost everyone, symptoms usually show up only in people who already have one or more health issues. Commonly reported symptoms include fever, muscle aches, swollen glands, and tiredness. An infection can cause pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and convulsions in more severe cases. There’s no known cure for Cytomegalovirus (CMV), but antiviral drugs can help minimize symptoms.
Kissing can transmit Gum Disease
Bacteria, saliva and other particles constantly live inside our mouths and can build into plaque. Brushing and oral hygiene products help remove the plaque, though if left untreated, plaque can build up beneath the gum line and cause gum disease.
Though gum disease doesn’t spread through Kissing, the bacteria that cause it can be passed between people through kissing. Regularly cleaning your teeth with toothpaste and dental floss is an effective way to prevent gum disease.
Mononucleosis can spread through Kissing
This disease, usually induced by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), can spread through saliva and is often called ‘Mono’ or ‘The Kissing Disease.’ Symptoms are extremely similar to those of the Flu and include a fever, a sore throat, tiredness, muscle weakness, and swollen glands.
While there is no cure for Mononucleosis, there are treatments to manage the symptoms. Antibiotics may also help if administered early enough. People between the ages of fifteen and thirty and those who frequently come into contact with others should watch out for signs of the illness. If they get sick, they should consult a doctor immediately. They should avoid kissing anybody until they recover.
Kissing can expose you to Meningitis
Viral Meningitis – Serious but Less Severe than Bacterial Meningitis. Symptoms Include Fever, Headache, Stiff Neck, Nausea, and Vomiting. Though There Are No Medications for Viral Meningitis, People with Healthy Immune Systems Usually Get Better on Their Own.
Conclusion: Disadvantages of Kissing
Kissing your loved ones is a great stress buster & makes you feel loved. If you are careful enough & take all the precautionary measures, then there is no harm in kissing.
I hope reading this guide has shed some light on the side effects of kissing & the preventive measures to take.
We have not only covered in detail all the disadvantages of Kissing but also tried to figure out the diseases that can spread through Kissing.
Still worried about the possible downsides of kissing? Don’t be! Just be careful about who you kiss and avoid kissing people who are ill and go to the dentist for a checkup.
FAQ’s
What are the advantages of kissing?
Kissing is good for you! Kissing help burn a few extra calories, lowers your blood pressure, reduces the pain from cramps, and boosts the chemicals in your brain, which makes you feel happy.
What are the benefits of hugging?
Hugging lower your cortisol levels and relieve stress. In fact, hugging and saying I LOVE YOU to your partner impacts the physiological processes related to stress management.
Can I kiss my GF during her periods?
Yes! It is absolutely safe to kiss your girlfriend during her periods. Kissing during periods will help relieve menstrual cramps and give her some comfort.
Can lip kissing cause pregnancy?
Kissing won’t make your girl pregnant & only unprotected sex can lead to pregnancy.
What are the side effects of kissing too much, or in other words, does Kissing affect your lips?
Extensive lip kissing can damage your lips as it is only 3-5 layers of protection, unlike other body parts. Excessive friction during a kiss and harsh digestive enzymes in the saliva can also damage your lips. Keeping lips moist with a lip balm can help.
Is kissing healthy for the body?
Kissing regularly has its advantages and disadvantages, as discussed. You can kiss regularly by taking extra care if the person suffers from the disease.
Is kissing Safe?
You might also want answers to the following questions: “Is a lip kiss safe?” and “Is a French kiss safe?” Too much use of the tongue and involvement of the mouth during a kiss involves the risk of spreading disease from one person to another. Be sure to know the person’s medical history as an extra precaution while kissing.
What can you do as an extra precaution while kissing?
- Do not kiss without knowing their medical history
- Maintain good oral hygiene
- Avoid kissing a sick person
- Take vaccine to prevent infection prevention
- Regular body checkups can help the infection at an early stage
How long do germs stay in your mouth after kissing?
It might vary from a few hours to months, depending on the germs being transmitted.
Can Kissing cause a sore throat?
Yes! Sore throat, also called “mono” or “the kissing disease,” spreads through saliva. It is usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and has symptoms similar to Flu- fever, fatigue, and muscle weakness.
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