An Antiseptic Lover to His Love

Tooth decay is a highly contagious disease.This is not going to stop kissing,” said the researcher.News item

Drink to me only with thine eyes —
With thine eyes I have no quarrel.
But, my love, some doubts arise
Re your lips of coral.
Take, O take those lips away;
More than love upon them tarries.
Thus the kisses of today
Are tomorrow’s caries.
Gather rosebuds while ye may,
But be sure the buds are sterile;
Baffling, this, for ardent maid.
Or for man who’s virile.
Teeth I love, but kisses more;
To desist is past enduring.
After meals we’ll brush, before,
And, if need be, during,
Seeking each a wholesome mouth.
And to make assurance sure I’d
Lace all beakers of the South
Generously with fluoride.
Come with me and be my love,
Sharing prophylactic ventures;
And we’ll all the pleasures prove,
Neither one with dentures.