a bearded dragon licked my tongue, i immediately brushed my teeth and swished my mouth out with water and spit it out, will i be okay?

3 answers

While it's generally unlikely that licking from a bearded dragon would cause any serious issues, there are some important considerations. Bearded dragons can carry bacteria like Salmonella, which can potentially lead to illness if transmitted to humans.

Since you brushed your teeth and rinsed your mouth out with water, you're taking good precautionary measures. Keep an eye on how you're feeling in the coming days. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as gastrointestinal issues, it's a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. In the future, try to avoid direct contact with your mouth and reptiles to minimize any risk.

what are the chances of me getting sick

The chances of getting sick from a bearded dragon licking your tongue are generally low, especially since you took steps to clean your mouth afterward. However, there is still a small risk because reptiles can carry bacteria such as Salmonella, which can cause illness in humans.

Factors that can influence your risk include:

  1. Overall Health: If you have a weakened immune system, you're at a higher risk for infections.
  2. Exposure to Bacteria: Even if the bearded dragon is healthy, it could still carry bacteria that might lead to sickness.
  3. Hygiene Practices: Your quick action of brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth reduces the chance of bacteria entering your system.

While serious illness is uncommon from this type of exposure, it's always wise to be cautious. If you start to feel unwell or notice symptoms like diarrhea, fever, or abdominal cramps, it's a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.