BE CAREFUL WHO YOU SWAP SPIT WITH UNDER THE MISTLETOE

BE CAREFUL WHO YOU SWAP SPIT WITH UNDER THE MISTLETOE

GADSDEN, Ala. (Wireless Flash) -- You may get more than just a cheap thrill from kissing under the mistletoe this year. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, passionate partygoers who follow the longtime holiday tradition can infect fellow revelers with the germs that cause gum disease. Spokesman Dr. Gordon Isbell says just one spit swapping session can lead to infection -- and your risk gets higher with each additional kiss and each new kissing partner. He recommends folks who have gum disease refrain from kissing under the mistletoe and suggests other folks check out their partner before smooching to make sure he or she isn't infected.