HPV in the Mouth: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

The human papilloma virus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted infection that can affect various areas of the body, including the mouth. When an HPV infection occurs in the mouth, symptoms usually include the appearance of whitish lesions or warts. These lesions can develop, so it’s crucial to recognize and treat the infection early.

HPV infection in the mouth can manifest itself in different ways, such as frequent canker sores and lesions on the tongue, cheeks and roof of the mouth. This clinical condition can cause discomfort, but also raises concerns due to the potential risk of it developing into more serious problems. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical advice to determine the appropriate treatment.

Dr. Roberto Markarian, a specialist in implant dentistry at the ImplArt Clinic, warns that “patients often come in worried about lesions in the mouth that don’t heal or appear repeatedly. HPV is one of the possible causes and, when diagnosed early, allows for more effective control of the infection.

Understanding the impacts of HPV in the mouth and the importance of treatment is essential to maintaining oral health and preventing complications. Treatment can include topical therapies or the removal of visible lesions on the oral mucosa, as indicated by the patient’s condition and medical recommendations.

Understanding HPV in the Mouth and its Transmission

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a virus that can affect the skin and mucous membranes, leading to different health problems. It is linked to diseases such as cancer of the mouth, cervix and oropharynx. Transmission occurs through direct contact with the skin, often during sexual activities.

HPV Types and Association with Cancer

There are more than 200 types of HPV, around 40 of which are associated with the genital and oral areas. Among these, some are considered high risk because they are linked to the development of cancers, such as cervical and oropharyngeal cancer. In particular, types 16 and 18 are the most frequently associated with cervical cancer.

The low-risk types generate manifestations such as warts on the skin and mucous membranes. The immune system’s defenses play a crucial role in eliminating the virus, and not all infections progress to serious illnesses. Prevention and early diagnosis are key to minimizing the impact.

At the clinic, we’ve seen patients who reported small warts on the oral mucosa and didn’t pay much attention until they started to grow or bother them. When these lesions are ignored, the evolution can be worrying,” explains Dr. Roberto.

Mechanisms of Transmission of the HPV Virus in the Mouth

HPV is transmitted through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person. This can occur during vaginal, anal or oral sex, with oral sex being a significant route of transmission for oral infections. Kissing can also be a form of contamination, although it is less common.

The use of condoms offers partial protection, since contact is not limited to the area covered. Autoinoculation, where one area of the body transmits the virus to another, is possible, increasing the risk of lesions in other regions. Vaccination is recommended to reduce the spread of the virus, protecting against the most dangerous types.

Prevention and treatment

Prevention and treatment of HPV in the mouth are essential to control the infection and avoid complications. Vaccination and sex education are important preventive strategies, while treatment may involve specific clinical management depending on the symptoms presented.

HPV Prevention Practices

Vaccination is an effective measure to prevent HPV infections, including those that affect the mouth. The vaccine is offered free of charge by the Brazilian health system and is a proven way of reducing the incidence of severe forms of HPV that can lead to cancer. In addition to the vaccine, the use of condoms during oral sex can reduce the risk of transmission.

Sex education plays a crucial role in prevention. Informing young people and adults about the ways in which HPV is transmitted and the importance of having preventive exams can help control the spread of the virus. Educational programs and public health campaigns focus on raising awareness by offering clear information about the virus.

“There is still a lot of ignorance about the transmission of oral HPV. Many patients are surprised to learn that this infection can be linked to common habits, such as unprotected oral sex,” says Dr. Roberto.

Treatment Options and Procedures

Treatment for HPV in the mouth varies according to the symptoms presented. Cryotherapy is a common option, where the warts are frozen to make them easier to remove. For more complex lesions, it may be necessary to resort to surgical procedures or the use of topical acids.

Considering the possibility of cancer, a biopsy may be recommended for suspicious lesions. If cancer is identified at an early stage, more intensive treatment, such as surgery or radiotherapy, may be necessary. Early treatment is vital to prevent the infection from progressing and to protect the patient‘s health.

Frequently Asked Questions about HPV in the Mouth

What are the symptoms of HPV in the oral region?

HPV symptoms in the mouth include white or reddish lesions that can look like canker sores. Lesions in the mouth or throat can be difficult to detect at first due to their subclinical appearance.

How is HPV transmitted to the mouth?

HPV transmission to the mouth usually occurs through direct contact with infected mucous membranes. This can happen through oral-genital intercourse or through other forms of intimate contact.

Are there any effective treatments for oral HPV?

Treatment for HPV in the mouth includes monitoring the lesions and, when necessary, medical interventions to remove them. Depending on the type and severity of the lesions, additional treatments may be considered.

What is the relationship between oral HPV and oral cancer?

Oral HPV is associated with an increased risk of mouth and throat cancer. This is due to the virus’s ability to cause cellular changes that can lead to the development of cancer.

How can I prevent HPV infection in my mouth?

Prevention includes using protection during oral sex and avoiding sharing personal objects that could be contaminated. Vaccination also plays an important role in preventing infection.

Does the HPV vaccine also protect against the oral version of the virus?

Yes, the HPV vaccine offers protection against the types of virus known to cause oral infections. It is recommended to prevent not only genital contamination but also oral forms of the virus.

Conclusion and Final Considerations

HPV in the mouth is a serious condition that can be prevented and treated with appropriate measures. Early diagnosis and vaccination are the main tools for avoiding more serious complications. Awareness of the risks and the adoption of safe habits are fundamental for oral and general health.

The ImplArt Clinic Experience

With 18 years’ experience, the ImplArt Clinic stands out in implant dentistry and oral rehabilitation. We have recently expanded our operations to include facial harmonization, offering complete care for aesthetics and oral health.

If you have any questions about oral HPV or any other dental problem, we invite you to visit the ImplArt Clinic. Make an appointment and find out how we can help you!

Before following any trend, I recommend seeking out a qualified professional who can present an individualized treatment plan based on a complete diagnosis. In this way, we guarantee not only a beautiful smile, but also a healthy and long-lasting one,” says Dr. Roberto Markarian, Clinical Director of the ImplArt Clinic.

Text written by DR. ROBERTO MARKARIAN – CRO-SP 73.583
Founder and Director of the ImplArt Dental Clinic – Dr. Roberto’s Linkedin profile
Access Dr. Roberto Markarian‘s scientific production on Google Scholar

Dr. Roberto Markarian is a reference in dental implants and computerized dental prostheses in Brazil. As well as having more than 10,000 implants installed, he is a researcher who produces knowledge that is published worldwide in renowned scientific journals in the field of dentistry. He is responsible for promoting knowledge and high technology applied in all the treatments offered by the ImplArt Dental Clinic.

*Accessmore videos about the treatments on the ImplArt Clinic YouTube channel and see how a dental implant is made: ImplArt Dental Clinic YouTube videos