What is Oral Sex?

Oral sex can be fun and pleasurable, but it can also come with its share of health concerns if not done properly. Oral sex is any sexual activity that involves the stimulation of the genitalia by the use of the mouth, tongue, teeth, or throat.

The practice is also known as fellatio or oral intercourse; colloquially may be referred to as going down on in slang speech (e.g., Giving head). It may be performed before, during, or after other sexual activities, such as vaginal or anal intercourse. It may also be performed simultaneously with vaginal penetration.

Two Types of Oral Sex

  • Cunnilingus (oral sex performed on a woman)
  • Fellatio (oral sex performed on a man)

Diseases that can be Transmitted Through Oral Sex

When someone has oral sex with an infected partner, certain diseases can be transmitted. These include;

  • Herpes Simplex Virus (HPV)
  • Hepatitis B (HBV),
  • Syphilis.
  • Gonorrhea

How Does Oral Sex Affect Your Dental Health?

When we think of oral sex, we tend to think of deep-throating and gagging. But what about all those tiny little movements made during cunnilingus (oral sex for a woman) or fellatio (oral sex for a man)? To our surprise, those small strokes can have an impact on our dental health. Mouth infections are usually not caused by oral sex alone, but there are some dental diseases that can be contracted through oral sex they are;

  1. Gum Disease: People who engage in oral sex are more likely to develop gum disease than those who don’t. The risk of these diseases increases if you already have cuts or sores inside your mouth. If left untreated, gum disease can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
  2. Herpes Simplex Virus: From kissing to oral sex—they’re all potential ways that human papillomavirus (HPV) can spread. If a person with HPV gives oral sex to another person without it, there’s little risk of infecting them with it. But if a person without HPV gives oral sex to someone who has it, they can get infected.

Is Oral Sex Good For Your Teeth?

Yes, oral sex is beneficial for your teeth because it can help to reduce your risk of having a dental cavity; When you have oral sex there is more saliva in your mouth than when you are performing another sexual act. The saliva washes away germs in your mouth, thereby reducing the actions of bacteria that cause the cavity.

What You Should Do To Protect Yourself when having oral sex

First off, know your partner. Don’t engage in oral sex with someone you don’t trust or haven’t properly researched. The best way to protect yourself and prevent complications due to oral sex is to;

  • Practice safe oral sex; that means limiting your exposure to bodily fluids during oral sex to decrease your risk of picking up a bacterial or viral infection.
  • Use a condom or dental dam.
  • Take particular care with any open cuts or sores.
  • Get regular dental checkups.

How Can You Improve Your Dental Health After Oral Sex

The best way to improve your dental health after oral sex is by keeping up with daily brushing and flossing, making regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings.

You should also take good care of your teeth with a healthy diet as well. Make sure you consume plenty of vitamin C to strengthen gum and fight bacteria. If you wear dentures or other removable dental appliances, they should be cleaned regularly according to manufacturer instructions.

When to See Your Dentist  

Only a dental professional can examine your teeth to make a determination of oral health risks. If you are experiencing any symptoms of poor oral health after unprotected oral sex, it is advised that you visit your dentist immediately to be examined for any cavities or other problems caused by saliva exposure. Follow-up visits may be needed as well to monitor your progress.