Oral findings in patients with sexually transmitted infections: Diagnostic relevance and clinical implications

Oral findings may serve as early indicators of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), yet evidence of their diagnostic relevance remains limited. In this systematic review, the authors aimed to identify and synthesize the most frequent oral manifestations and associated conditions observed in patients with STIs, emphasizing their clinical diagnostic value.

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Scientific Electronic Library Online databases for observational studies published from 2015 through 2024. The population, exposure, comparator, and outcomes framework guided study selection, and quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Seventeen studies met inclusion criteria.

Of the 17 studies included, 7 had low risk of bias and 10 had moderate risk of bias. Reported oral findings included ulcers, plaques, papules, and papillomatous lesions directly linked to STIs. Associated conditions, such as periodontal disease, oral cancer, candidiasis, and temporomandibular disorders, were also described. The most frequently affected oral sites were the tongue, commissures, and palate. Variability among studies was due mainly to differences in population characteristics, diagnostic approaches, and sample size.

Interdisciplinary collaboration between dental care professionals and health care professionals is crucial for prevention, early diagnosis, and comprehensive management of STIs. Dentists play a key role in identifying oral manifestations and distinguishing between direct lesions and associated conditions, facilitating prompt referral and treatment. This systematic review was registered at PROSPERO. The registration number is CRD42025640143.