Sweets are not the only factor behind tooth decay. According to Kazakh dentist Aralbek Tasbulatov, the bacteria that cause cavities can be transmitted through saliva, including through kissing.
What causes cavities?
Q: What causes cavities, and are there any lesser-known risk factors?
Tasbulatov: There are several causes of tooth decay. One is excessive consumption of carbohydrates, particularly sugary foods. Bacteria in the mouth feed on leftover carbohydrates and produce acid. Over time, that acid depletes the tooth enamel of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, causing it to break down.
Another contributing factor can be autoimmune disease. It’s also important to understand that while cavities themselves are not contagious, the bacteria associated with tooth decay can be transmitted from one person to another.
Can you «catch» cavities?
Q: So, can cavities be transmitted?
Tasbulatov: The bacteria that contribute to cavities can spread through saliva. If one person has high levels of cavity-causing bacteria, they can be transferred through activities such as kissing.
Many people are becoming more aware of this issue. Some seek dental treatment before pregnancy, while others ask whether they can acquire these bacteria from a spouse with untreated tooth decay. I explain that transmission of the bacteria is possible because they are spread through saliva.
Good hygiene remains the key
However, exposure to cavity-causing bacteria does not mean a person will automatically develop tooth decay. Cavities form only when those bacteria thrive in favorable conditions, particularly frequent sugar consumption and poor oral hygiene.
Tasbulatov also noted that kissing has potential oral health benefits. It stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids, providing a natural layer of protection for tooth enamel.
