What every dentist needs to know about human papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has a nearly ubiquitous prevalence within the adolescent and adult populations worldwide. The virus has been implicated for decades in cervical and uterine cancers, but recent data have shown an increase in cases of virally related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma in both male and female cohorts. The objective of this article is to review the oral health implications of HPV infection, including oral and oropharyngeal prevalence, manifestations, neoplastic potential of HPV-associated head and neck lesions, treatment modalities, and vaccine use. The article will also discuss the continuing education needs of oral healthcare providers. Dental professionals should routinely screen patients for oral and oropharyngeal manifestations of HPV infection, seek timely referral for therapeutic intervention of potentially malignant lesions, and become strong proponents of HPV vaccinations for at-risk patients.