When most people think of contagious illnesses, they think of colds or the flu. But did you know that cavities and gum disease are actually infectious diseases that can spread from person to person — including through kissing?

Cavities Are Caused by Bacteria — and Bacteria Can Spread

Tooth decay isn’t just caused by sugar or poor brushing.

It’s caused by harmful bacteria that produce acids, which eat away at tooth enamel. These bacteria can transfer from one mouth to another through saliva — whether from kissing, sharing utensils, or even sipping from the same cup.

If you or your partner has untreated cavities, you could be passing these bacteria back and forth. This is why, even if you get your cavities treated, you could still become reinfected if your partner’s mouth isn’t healthy.

Gum Disease Is Also Contagious

Just like cavities, gum disease (periodontal disease) is caused by bacteria that live under the gums.

If you have gum disease and kiss your partner, or share food and drinks, those bacteria can transfer. This is why couples often have similar oral health conditions.

Why Treating Just One Person Isn’t Enough

It’s important that both partners — and ideally, the whole family — get dental checkups and cleanings regularly.

Treating gum disease or cavities in one person without addressing it in the other can lead to repeated reinfection, much like trying to get rid of the flu without treating the rest of the household.

Our Family-Friendly Approach at Atlantis Dental

We believe that a healthy smile is a family affair.
That’s why we’re currently offering:

- $99 new patient cleaning special (includes exam & X-rays) for your family or friends.
- Free professional whitening when you bring a family member for their first appointment.

Our mission is to help you and your loved ones stay healthy — and that means stopping cavity and gum disease bacteria from making the rounds in your household.

📞 Call us today at (508) 270-5050 to book appointments for the whole family.