Yes, DNA from a kiss can be detected in your mouth, but only for a short time.
How Long Does DNA Linger After a Kiss?
Studies show that DNA transferred during a kiss can persist in the mouth for up to an hour. After that, the detectability significantly decreases. It's important to note that this DNA doesn't integrate into your own DNA; it's simply present in the saliva. Several sources confirm this finding [1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7]. One study even indicates that the yield of DNA extracted from saliva samples after kissing doesn't significantly differ depending on the time elapsed after the kiss [7]. However, this doesn't mean it remains indefinitely detectable.
The Kissing Process and DNA Transfer
During a kiss, especially a French kiss, saliva is exchanged. Saliva contains DNA. Therefore, this exchange results in the transfer of DNA from one person to another [1, 2, 3, 4]. Think of it like a mingling of genetic material [1]. This mingling doesn't alter your own genetic code; it simply means the other person's DNA is temporarily present in your mouth.
Misconceptions about DNA Transfer During Kissing
It's crucial to dispel the myth that DNA from a kiss remains for extended periods (like six months) [4, 8]. While DNA can be detected shortly after a kiss, it doesn't permanently alter or integrate with your own DNA [6]. The transfer of DNA during kissing is temporary and readily decreases in detectability.
In Summary
A kiss leads to a temporary transfer of DNA via saliva exchange. This DNA is detectable for a short period (up to an hour), after which its detection becomes increasingly difficult. Claims of DNA persistence for months are inaccurate.
[1] So, what happens when we kiss? Same thing occurs as when a swab is taken – we release our DNA. With a kiss it mingles. The DNA of a lover can be detected in your mouth up to an hour after the act.02-Jul-2015
[2] Quora: When you kiss someone does their DNA stay in your mouth for 6 ...
[3] New Scientist: Lingering kiss: DNA persists in the mouth after smooch
[4] Quora: When you French kiss someone, how long does their saliva stay in your mouth
[5] PubMed: Prevalence and persistence of male DNA identified in mixed saliva samples
[6] Brainly: How long does someone's DNA stay in you after kissing?
[7] FSI Genetics: Prevalence and persistence of male DNA identified in mixed saliva samples
[8] TikTok: Dna 6 Months After Kissing
