Is a tooth infection contagious?

My boyfriend has a really bad tooth infection (abscess). I have kissed him a couple of times -- not even thinking about it.

Is there any way for me to catch his infection?

Ps. He in the process of treatment.

I obviously meant "He IS in the process of treatment". Sorry for the typo.

No, you shouldn't be affected by this at all. He has an abcess because of whatever situation has developed under his gums (with the root of the tooth most likely) and it's not something that you can catch.

No you cannot catch teeth infections. They usually start in the gum and move to the tooth. I have never heard of any one catching a tooth infection,but if you are that worried about it, try rinsing your mouth with salt water a couple of times a day.

Don't think so, but it can be deadly if not corrected. The wife and I have kissed when we've had a similar problem, it sure wouldn't hurt to use a mouth wash afterward.

DEAR MISTAKEN,
YOU CANNOT "CATCH" AN INFECTION FROM A DENTAL ABCESS. HOWEVER, LONG-STANDING PERIODONTAL DISEASE CAN BE PASSES BY THE PERSON YOUR KISSING.
Millions of Americans May Be at Risk for Serious Health Problems Due to Periodontal (Gum) Disease According to Study
(The American Academy of Periodontology) 颅 A new analysis of recent research has revealed gum disease may represent a far more serious threat to the health of millions of Americans than previously realized. These studies found that periodontal (gum) infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, the nation's number one cause of death, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.

"It seems clear that gum disease, far from being just an oral health problem, actually represents a significant health risk to millions of people," said Robert Genco, D.D.S., Ph.D., editor-in-chief of the Journal of Periodontology.

"Periodontal disease is characterized by inflammation and bacterial infections of the gums surrounding the teeth. The bacteria that area associated with periodontal disease can travel into the bloodstream to other parts of the body, and that puts health at risk," said Dr. Genco. "People think of gum disease in terms of their teeth, but they don't think about the fact that gum disease is a serious infection that can release bacteria into the bloodstream. The end result could mean additional health risks for people whose health is already affected by other diseases 颅 or lead to serious complications like heart disease."

Not really the infection, but the decay that can lead to it. Tooth decay can be contagious as the bacteria that causes it can be passed through the saliva. Parents unknowingly pass this bacteria to their small children as they "clean off" a soother or spoon then put it in their child's mouth. If you are keeping up with your flossing and brushing, you should be okay. =)