Additional information on oropharyngeal human papillomavirus HPV infection related to cancer is addressed in the Oral Cancer Fact Sheet. Removal of warts does not necessarily eliminate HPV infection; warts can reoccur if the virus is still present in the body. Surgical excision may be an option when the cosmetically objectionable. Examples include types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and Low-risk HPV is generally not associated with cancer causation but can cause benign lesions such as common warts and genital warts.
Examples include types 6 and Probable high-risk HPV types have limited data but show possible links to development of cancer, with further research being needed for definitive classification. Examples include types 26, 53, Invasive dental hygiene procedures are scaling teeth and root planing, including curetting surrounding tissue. Warts are contagious. Is medical consult advised? Is the initiation of invasive dental hygiene procedures contra-indicated?
See above. Is medical clearance required? Is antibiotic prophylaxis required? Is postponing treatment advised? Mode of transmission : Usually through direct contact with infected skin or mucous membranes. Warts may be autoinoculated e. The risk of HPV transmission during oral sex fellatio, cunnilingus, and anilingus is increased if there are small cuts in the mouth e. Risk during oral sex is also increased if there are sores on the mouth or genitals caused by rough or prolonged oral sex or an STI such as herpes or syphilis ; if the person receiving oral sex is menstruating; and if there is holding of semen, vaginal fluid, or menstrual blood in the mouth for a long time or if it is swallowed.
Incubation period from time of HPV infection to appearance of warts ranges from 1 to 20 months, with 2 to 3 months being most common. Dental hygienists play an important role in prevention and detection of HPV-related oral lesions, particularly those of oral cancer. Education regarding HPV vaccination and safe oral sex practices saves lives. To reduce acquisition and spread of oral cavity STIs, condoms or dental dams should be used for all oral-genital and oral-anal contact.
Brushing or flossing of teeth should be avoided within 30 minutes of giving oral sex. Additionally, palatal petechiae in children could be a sign of forced oral sex. Dental hygienists with periungal or other warts on their hands should seek medical treatment to accelerate resolution and decrease viral transmission potential.
