The most important thing to know about kissing is that, like everything else having to do with sexuality, individual preferences vary widely.

That’s why communicating about what you like and don’t like is so important. It may sound silly, but checking in, asking, and really listening can make all the difference for you and your partner.

That having been said here are some “good practice” tips:

• Oral hygiene. Let’s be honest, no one wants to kiss someone with bad breath or yellowed teeth. Take the time to keep your mouth, teeth, and tongue clean and bright. See a dentist, brush, floss and rinse.
• Take a few seconds, (or longer) with your lips hovering over theirs and barely touching. Wait. Anticipation is the name of the game.
• Start slow and gently. I’ve never once had a woman complain to me that her partner took too long with soft butterfly kisses before moving in for a more intense kiss.
•  Follow their lead when you are moving your tongue into their mouth. If they seem to be responding in kind, keep going. If they feel like they are pulling away at all, bear that in mind.
•  Take breathing breaks. Everyone needs to breathe.

And remember to check in verbally. That will truly give you all the information you need to know.

Happy Kissing!