Dealing with Mouth Sores After Kissing My Partner
I’m a 23-year-old female, weighing 170 pounds and standing 5'7" tall. Since I started dating my boyfriend, I have experienced recurring mouth sores. It seems that each time we meet and kiss, I end up with painful sores shortly afterward. Today was particularly upsetting because, following our kiss, I developed significant discomfort all around my mouth. The sores have been quite severe. Its perplexing because I’ve never had this problem before meeting him. My boyfriend previously mentioned that he battled gingivitis for six months due to alcoholism and neglecting his dental hygiene. In contrast, I consistently maintain my dental health; I attend regular dental cleanings every six months. My dentist has commended me on my tooth care during my last visit, praising my oral hygiene. Conversely, my boyfriend hasn’t had a dental cleaning in about 20 months, and at his most recent appointment, he was informed that his gums were not in good condition. He is only 22, and it’s concerning that he doesn’t prioritize taking care of his teeth. I am beginning to worry that the bacteria in his mouth might be affecting my oral health, and I can’t shake the feeling that there might be underlying issues he hasn’t disclosed. Additionally, I want to mention that the sores have also appeared on my tongue. We do not engage in oral sex—our interactions remain strictly to kissing, and we always use protection during intimate moments.
Answers (1)
7/26/2025, 11:01:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about developing recurring mouth sores after kissing your partner, especially given the discomfort you've experienced. Mouth sores can be caused by a number of factors ranging from irritation to viral infections.
Explanation
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Possible Causes: The sores you're experiencing may be caused by:
- Irritation: Abrasions or sensitivity from kissing, especially if there's significant force or if either of you has chapped lips.
- Viral Infections: Conditions such as herpes simplex virus can lead to recurring sores, often triggered by stress or illness.
- Bacterial Factors: Your boyfriend's gingivitis could potentially introduce bacteria that may irritate your oral mucosa, though this is less common.
- Systemic Issues: Conditions like canker sores can arise from stress, hormonal changes, or nutritional deficiencies.
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Concerning Aspects: Given your boyfriend’s dental health issues, it is wise to consider the implications for your health. While intimacy often involves some transfer of bacteria, good hygiene typically minimizes risks.
Next Steps
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Hydration & Oral Care:
- Maintain good oral hygiene; brush your teeth twice daily, floss, and consider using an alcohol-free mouthwash that promotes healing.
- Stay hydrated to help your mouth heal.
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When to Seek Help:
- If your sores do not heal within two weeks, get worse, or if you develop additional symptoms like fever or swollen glands, consider seeking dental or medical advice.
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Discussion with Partner:
- Have a candid conversation with your boyfriend about your concerns. Encourage him to prioritize his dental health for both his own well-being and yours.
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Monitoring Symptoms:
- Keep a journal of when the sores appear, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information could be valuable if you need medical advice in the future.
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Nutritional Check:
- Ensure you’re getting enough vitamins, especially B vitamins and zinc, which are important for mouth health.
Taking these steps can help you manage your symptoms and facilitate better conversations about health with your partner. It's important to address your concerns, both for your comfort and overall well-being.
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