Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection.
Without proper dental care the bacteria that are present in plaque can infect the gums (gingivitis) and
destroy the bone and tissues that support the teeth in what is called
periodontitis-- the leading cause of tooth loss and bad breath (halitosis) in adults. In addition, gum disease has been linked to more serious health threats such as
diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and pre-term,
low-birthweight babies.
Is periodontal disease contagious? Can it be passed from one person to
another like tuberculosis or meningitis? Can you get periodontal disease by
kissing someone who has it? The answer to all these questions is YES.
In a
dental care article published in the Journal of the American Dental Association,
it was revealed that periodontitis might be passed from parents to
children and between intimate partners.
The bacteria that inhabit the periodontal pockets are also present on the
oral soft tissues, teeth, tongue and saliva. They can be transferred from one
person to another through saliva, intimate kissing, sharing of food, utensils,
or toothbrushes, and can result in exposure to saliva that contain the bacteria
that cause periodontal disease.
Based on these findings and the fact that periodontal disease has a genetic
component, it is recommended that if one family member has periodontitis,
all family members see a
dental care professional or periodontist for a periodontal screening.
Parents need to know that gum disease and halitosis are not just adult health
problems and that children can also be affected.
To prevent transmission of periodontitis between family members or
intimate partners, it is important to follow proper
dental care and oral hygiene techniques that
include daily brushing and flossing and to see a
dental care provider routinely
for professional cleanings and examinations.
