HARMFUL ORAL BACTERIA reproduces very quickly, which is why it matters so much that we brush twice a day and floss daily. A clean, healthy mouth will contain between a thousand to a hundred thousand bacteria on the surface of each tooth. Without diligent brushing and flossing, those numbers can quickly explode into the millions and even billions.
The average person has between 34 and 72 different strains of oral bacteria in their mouths. Once a new one is introduced, it’s usually there to stay. Each person has different bacteria, which is how kissing or even something as simple as sharing drinks can introduce new strains of bacteria.
This is a bigger problem for kids than adults. Little kids’ immune systems aren’t used to dealing with adult levels of oral bacteria. Too many kisses from adult relatives (or simply letting them have sips from adult relatives’ drinks) could leave them more vulnerable to cavities.
Fortunately, it’s easy to avoid sharing bacteria with a child; keep those kisses to their cheek and give them their own drinks and utensils. (This is a good idea even for adults who always brush twice a day for the full two minutes and floss daily.) Also, only clean a dropped pacifier in the sink.
No matter your age or who you kiss, it’s essential to maintain good oral health habits. Bacteria isn’t going to take a day off from multiplying if you skip brushing and flossing. In addition to twice-daily brushing and daily flossing, professional cleanings every six months will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy.
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