Are Kisses Healthy? The Surprising Pros and Cons of Smooching
                                
                                
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                                    4 min read                                
                            
                                According to a study published in the journal *Microbiome*, a 10-second intimate kiss can transfer as many as 80 million bacteria, an idea that sounds both fascinating and potentially risky. But are kisses healthy, or is this exchange of germs a cause for concern? The answer is a compelling mix of both surprising benefits and minor, manageable risks that impact emotional, physical, and even dental health.