Did you know that you can actually “catch” gum disease from your partner?  The bacteria that causes gum disease can be spread from one partner to the other by kissing.  Who knew kissing could be a bad thing?

When researchers looked in the mouths of 14 married couples, they found a statistically significant match between the bacteria under the gums and between the teeth of both partners.

Dr. Steven Offenbacher, chairman of periodontics at Atlanta’s Emory University, confirmed what many dentists suspected already: Unless the partner is also treated, a married patient with gum diesease may be headed for reinfection.  Because, while certain specific bacterial forms (spirochetes) are found in the mouths of 25% of the general population, they are found in a whopping 75% of people whose partners have them!

So, while kissing is romantic and enjoyable, it may be detrimental to your oral health.  At Joseph R. Nemeth, DDS & Associates, we offer a free “screening” to the spouses/partners of our patients who are diagnosed with and being treated for gum disease.  Don’t let the romance cloud your judgement.  Call for a periodontal evaluation today- 248.357.3100 – or visit our website for more information http://www.drnemeth.com