Kissing is universally recognized as a form of intimacy between people, being recognized as a symbol of love, affection and tenderness in various cultures. Even in the animal kingdom, many species, such as primates, birds and fish, practice kissing-like behaviors as part of their courtship ritual and to strengthen bonds. 

However, there are also a number of myths about kissing. In this sense, and on the occasion of World Kissing Day, which is celebrated this Saturday, April 13, Impress demystifies some misconceptions and explores some curiosities.

Read Also: Specialist tells us how to keep the 'flame' burning in a long relationship (Portuguese version)

The myth of transmitting serious diseases

It is estimated that over a lifetime, a person gives about 24,000 kisses and studies indicate that a 10-second kiss can transfer up to 80 million bacteria, from about 278 different types, with the average concentration of bacteria per milliliter of saliva being around 100 million.

Additionally, it is possible that the other person's saliva residue remains in the mouth for up to three days, which explains the popularity of this myth. However, although kissing can facilitate the transmission of bacteria and viruses, such as the common cold, flu, mononucleosis, herpes, candidiasis or syphilis, the risk of contracting a serious illness through a kiss is generally low, as long as both parties are healthy and have no open wounds in the mouth. 

Did you know that kissing can serve as therapy? 

Maintaining good oral health is essential to ensure that a kiss is a pleasant experience and does not cause problems. When practiced with a healthy mouth, kissing releases four types of neurotransmitters: dopamine, which provides pleasure; serotonin, which promotes excitement; epinephrine, which accelerates the heart rate; and oxytocin, which stimulates feelings of affection and trust.

In this sense, it can be considered as a natural antidepressant, since it releases chemicals that promote a sense of well-being and happiness, which brings numerous benefits to mental health, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.

Read Also: Without taboos. The basics of fetishes and when they can be problematic (Portuguese version)

The myth of the number of muscles used during a kiss

It is often stated that a kiss involves the activation of 25 muscles, between the lips and tongue, suggesting that it is one of the actions that uses the most muscles in the body. However, the exact number of muscles used can vary from person to person, depending on the intensity and type of kiss.

However, it is true that a passionate kiss can burn between two to six calories per minute, depending on its intensity and duration. A kiss with tongue, for example, uses 34 muscles and can burn about 26 calories per minute.

Did you know that a kiss can be equated to morphine?

A kiss has significant power, and can be as or even more powerful than morphine. When someone is kissed, the body releases endorphins, chemicals that provide feelings of pleasure and well-being. These endorphins are about 200 times more potent than the effects of morphine.

The myth that braces or retainers ruin kisses

Many young people view the idea of wearing braces as an obstacle in their love lives. The fear of not knowing how to kiss correctly or hurting the partner with the metal structure is common. However, according to Kasem, Impress' chief orthodontist, "using braces does not have to be a problem during kissing, as it does not cut the tongue of the person being kissed".

Did you know that kissing can help prevent oral complications? 

Kissing on the mouth has been associated with the prevention of cavities and bacterial plaque, as it stimulates the production of saliva, which helps to keep teeth clean and control acidity in the mouth. Despite this, it is recommended to use a tongue scraper daily when brushing your teeth and to rinse with mouthwash after brushing, as these practices contribute to maintaining good oral hygiene and fresh breath.

In addition, it is also important to note that cavities are not transmitted through the exchange of saliva, but rather due to imbalances in the process of demineralization and remineralization of tooth enamel, as well as the presence of bacterial plaque.

Finally, there is a direct relationship between stress and kissing, or the absence of kissing. Those who practice regular kissing, commonly known as kissers, tend to have less anxiety and are less likely to develop certain habits that are harmful to oral health, such as nail biting and teeth grinding, which can cause damage to teeth and gums.

Read Also: Itching, burning and swelling during the act? You may be allergic to sex (it's true!) (Portuguese version)