Spread some healthy bacteria; kiss your loved one.
Some people say, “Don’t do that you’ll be spreading cooties!” Some people think kissing is unsanitary, unhygienic, and can spread germs like the kissing disease Mono (mononucleosis). But in healthy individuals, this can be a way to increase biodiversity in the mouth.
“Kissing your partner for 10 seconds can increase your microbiome at the rate of 80 million bacteria,” was the discovery of a Dutch scientist.
There are many strains of bacteria in the mouth. By introducing a partner’s bacteria it can increase resiliency in the biofilm of the mouth. It can provide more protection against some pathogens.
The biofilm is a structure or organism in the mouth that is attached to the teeth, tongue, gums, and roof of the mouth. Since the mouth is the gateway to the entire digestive system, it is important to have a healthy biofilm to help keep the rest of the digestive system free from pathogens before they get to the stomach.
A good way to support the biofilm is with oral probiotics. Probiotics are multiple strains of good bacteria.
Other ways to support your oral biofilm are:
- Brush your teeth at least twice daily
- Scrape your tongue in the morning
- Floss
- Rinse your mouth with water after consuming sugar. Sugar damages healthy bacteria.
- Avoid mouthwashes as mouthwashes contain ingredients that act like an antibiotic which can kill your oral microbiome.
Reducing stress, drinking clean water, and ceasing smoking may help keep your oral biofilm healthy.
Check out this video to learn a little more!
Wow! Super informative. No idea kissing could be healthy. Thanks!
Thanks Rebecca. Glad our website is informative.