Experts Warn of Oral Disease Risks from Kissing

A number of Rwandan citizens say they still believe that certain oral diseases can be transmitted through kissing. They are calling for continued awareness campaigns encouraging people to maintain proper oral hygiene and seek medical treatment whenever they notice unusual symptoms.

Marie Claire Mukamana, one of the residents interviewed, says ignoring oral health while continuing to kiss may expose partners to possible infections. “You sometimes see people struggling with dental problems and mouth infections, yet they ignore treatment and continue kissing. I believe this can easily lead to disease transmission, which is why everyone should take their oral health seriously,”

Another resident, Jean Bosco Niyonzima from Huye District, explains that while kissing is a normal expression of affection, people should understand that it may have consequences when one partner has an oral disease. “We cannot ignore the fact that the mouth contains many microbes. If someone is sick and still continues kissing another person, I believe there may be health risks involved,”

Medical professionals confirm that some oral diseases can indeed affect another person depending on hygiene levels and the patient’s condition.

Dr Emmanuel Nsabimana, an oral health specialist at the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (CHUB), explains that the mouth naturally contains many bacteria, some harmless and others potentially harmful. “The mouth contains numerous microorganisms, both good and bad. When a person has conditions such as gingivitis, mouth ulcers, gum infections, or diseases caused by poor hygiene, there is a possibility of health complications for another person when saliva is exchanged,”

He strongly advises people who know they have oral infections to avoid kissing until they have received proper medical treatment. “The most important thing is maintaining daily oral hygiene, brushing teeth at least twice a day, visiting the dentist at least twice a year, and seeking medical help immediately when something feels unusual. These are key to preventing complications from oral diseases,”

Experts also emphasize that oral health is closely connected to general body health, including non-communicable diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. They encourage regular dental check-ups as part of overall healthcare.

They insist that awareness, timely treatment, and consistent hygiene remain the strongest ways to ensure healthy mouths and prevent avoidable infections.