There is a link between gingivitis and a bacterial infection. While gingivitis itself does not pass from person to person, the bacteria can transmit through saliva.

Gingivitis can cause inflammation and tenderness in the gums. While it can occur in people of any age, it tends to affect those with plaque buildup and difficulty with oral hygiene. Both of these factors can promote the growth of bacteria in the mouth.

This article reviews how gingivitis can transmit, its symptoms, treatment options, and prevention.

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Bacteria in the mouth can lead to gingivitis and gum inflammation. While it is not usually a transmissible disease, people can pass on gingivitis-causing bacteria through their saliva.

Coming into contact with the bacteria may increase the risk of it attaching to teeth or gums and cause problems. This is especially the case if someone has difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene.

Certain other factors can increase the risk of developing gingivitis. This includes:

People can also transmit bacteria when they do not experience any symptoms of gingivitis.

Learn more about gingivitis.

Is gingivitis passed on by kissing?

Saliva offers some protection against bacteria that people usually encounter in their mouths. While saliva has antimicrobial properties — meaning it offers protection from germs — it may also contain bacteria and transmit infections.

Therefore, if a person kisses someone who has gingivitis, they might be more susceptible to exchanging bacteria and developing gingivitis. Infection is more likely if the person has oral hygiene issues.

It could also affect babies, as their immune systems are underdeveloped. For example, caregivers who kiss a baby on the mouth could transmit bacteria that the baby’s developing immune system is not yet ready to cope with.

In addition, a 2021 study reports that children who have parents with periodontal disease tend to display an abundance of oral disease-associated germs.

Generally, people with gingivitis should avoid kissing others until their condition heals. This can help prevent the transmission of bacteria.

Can people acquire gingivitis by sharing drinks?

Similar to kissing, sharing drinks with a person who has gingivitis may increase the risk of coming into contact with bacteria and infection. This includes sharing the same cup, straw, or glass as someone with gingivitis.

For some, though, infection may not occur. People with risk factors discussed earlier in this article are more likely to be affected.

Treatment for gingivitis focuses on managing and treating the infection while improving the health of teeth and gums. A specialist, such as a dentist, can help treat it.

The dentist removes tartar, plaque, and harmful bacteria from the teeth to reduce inflammation and help prevent it from returning.

The specialist may also recommend an oral hygiene regimen to follow. This can significantly improve gingivitis without the need for additional medical treatment. The regimen might detail using an antimicrobial mouthwash, flossing, and brushing regularly to keep teeth and gums healthy.

In more severe cases of gingivitis, additional treatments such as scaling and root planing may be necessary. These prevent bacteria from sticking to the surfaces of the mouth and buildup.

Good oral hygiene maintenance can help prevent gingivitis. This may include:

  • brushing twice a day after waking up and before going to bed
  • flossing once a day to remove bacteria stuck between the teeth
  • avoiding smoking and using tobacco products
  • limiting drinks and food containing alcohol and sugar
  • managing diabetes, if applicable

People should also visit a dentist at least once a year. Regular checkup appointments with a specialist can help reduce the risks of developing gingivitis and help maintain good oral health.

Learn more about preventing gum infection.

Improper oral hygiene causes plaque buildup, spreading bacteria to the gums and causing gingivitis. While experts generally assert that someone with gingivitis cannot pass the condition on itself, they can transmit the bacteria that causes it through saliva-to-saliva contact.

Adopting good oral hygiene practices, such as regular tooth brushing, flossing, and professional cleaning, is the primary defense against gingivitis development and transmission.