If someone were to ask you how gum disease develops, your answer might touch on poor oral hygiene habits or dietary choices. Certainly, those personal lifestyle factors can play a huge role in whether or not you develop an infection in your gum tissue. But did you know that gingivitis (the first stage of gum disease) is also contagious? Yes, you might catch it from another person! This blog post explains how that might happen and how you can take reasonable precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones.
How Gum Disease Spreads
One of the most common ways in which gum disease can spread is through kissing. When you kiss someone, you exchange saliva, which can contain harmful bacteria that are responsible for gum disease. If your partner has gingivitis or another form of gum disease, you might unwittingly introduce those bacteria into your own mouth, increasing your risk of infection.
Sharing personal items, particularly toothbrushes, is another way gum disease can spread. Toothbrushes can harbor bacteria and other microorganisms that cause gum disease.
An important note for parents: If you have gum disease, there is a risk you could spread it to your children through everyday interactions. For example, when you share utensils with your child or clean a pacifier with their mouth, you might transfer bacteria that cause gum disease. Children’s immune systems are still developing, making them especially vulnerable to infections, so you should not underestimate how your oral health might affect that of your child.
Protecting Yourself and Your Loved Ones
Although gum disease is contagious, there are practical measures you can take to reduce your risk of infection. Here are some best practices that can protect your oral health and that of your loved ones:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can cause gum disease. You may also choose to use an antimicrobial mouthwash.
- Avoid sharing personal items. Do not share toothbrushes, utensils, or other items that come into contact with your mouth. This will help reduce the risk of transferring harmful bacteria.
- Schedule regular dental checkups. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Early detection and treatment of gum disease can prevent it from progressing to more severe stages.
- Eat a balanced diet. Consume a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, which supports healthy gums. Avoid sugary foods and drinks that can contribute to bacterial growth in the mouth.
- Educate your children about oral hygiene. Teach your children the importance of brushing and flossing their teeth, as well as the risks associated with sharing personal items.
Gum disease can spread from person to person! Take practical measures to protect your smile.
Meet the Practice
At Willow Run Dental Association, our team is proud to help members of our community fight back against gum disease. We offer both preventive care and gum disease therapy. If you are concerned about the health of your gums, we are ready to provide expert guidance on how you can protect your oral health. Contact our Auburn, ME, office at 207-352-2825.