Exchanging saliva when kissing, particularly deep kissing, can have some positive effects on your oral health and immunity.

There is proof that the saliva you exchange while kissing has some good effects, more than just the satisfactory feeling and those pretty emotions you have.

Does exchanging saliva when kissing really have a good effect on health?

Saliva contains various enzymes and proteins that help break down food particles, which can reduce the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay.

It helps to neutralize the acids produced by bacteria in the mouth, which can protect tooth enamel.

Saliva also contains minerals like calcium and phosphate, which can aid in remineralizing tooth enamel and keeping teeth strong.

Deep kissing, or passionate kissing, typically increases the flow of saliva. This increased saliva flow can help cleanse the mouth of food particles, bacteria, and debris, promoting a healthier oral environment.

Saliva also contains antimicrobial properties, which can help fight off harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi that may be present in the mouth.

When you kiss someone, you’re exposed to the microorganisms that inhabit their mouth. While this might sound unappealing, it can actually be beneficial for your immune system.

Exposure to various microbes can help stimulate your immune system and make it more robust. It’s a form of natural immunization, similar to how vaccines work by exposing your body to a weakened or inactivated form of a pathogen to build immunity.

Kissing can have these potential health benefits, but maintaining good oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups is much more important for you and your partner to have a better kissing experience and to actually enjoy the good effects it brings.

If you or your partner have any oral infections or contagious diseases, take precautions to prevent transmission. Communication and maintaining good oral hygiene would help you both minimise potential risks.

What happens when you swap saliva when kissing?

When you and your partner kiss, you can exchange bacteria, and it is estimated that you can transfer millions of bacteria during a single kiss.

This exchange of bacteria can introduce a variety of microorganisms to your body, which can have some impact on your immune system.

Here is how it works:

• The human body is home to trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the microbiome. These microorganisms play a crucial role in various bodily functions, including digestion and immune system regulation.
• Exposure to a diverse range of bacteria from your partner’s mouth can contribute to the diversity of your own microbiome. A more diverse microbiome is generally considered healthier because it can help your body better adapt to different challenges.
• When you introduce new bacteria to your body, your immune system may become more active. This exposure can help “train” your immune system to recognize and respond to a wider array of pathogens, potentially making it more robust.
• Exchanging saliva when kissing helps give you a little edge over cold and cough by introducing a new variety of bacteria in your body.