The Oral Effects of STDs
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are contracted in various ways. Each
disease has a different effect, and the symptoms for each may vary with
individual cases. Some infections and their symptoms are more apparent than
others—the oral effects of STDs, for instance, appear in the tissue that
surrounds the area of contact. Here are some of the STDs that can affect your
oral health.
Epstein-Barr
Virus/ Mononucleosis
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), associated with infectious mononucleosis
(mono), has symptoms ranging from fatigue, fever, enlarged glands, to a sore
throat. EBV may cause sores around the mouth with a white appearance, the most
common place being on the side of the tongue. Mono, which can be caused by EBV,
lives in the saliva and can transfer from person to person in the exchange of
saliva—hence why it is called the “kissing disease.”
To treat the initial EBV, you need to take antiviral drugs, but it may
reappear after you finish the prescription. If left untreated, EBV may lead to
cancer in the upper part of the throat. If you have any concerns, visit your
dentist as soon as possible.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea does not often affect the mouth, but it can affect the
throat. Symptoms may include a sore throat and occasionally sores in the mouth.
The tissue in the mouth or throat may appear red or swollen. If you suffer from
this condition, try to avoid dental treatment unless it is an emergency.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis rarely affects the oral cavity. Instead, it affects the way
the body reacts to pharmaceutical drugs and the way the blood clots. Hepatitis
can be transmitted through blood or blood contaminated saliva, which can
potentially spread to dental personnel, so be sure to make them aware of your
condition so they may be properly protected.
Doctors can offer a vaccination as a form of treatment. Unfortunately,
this only applies to Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. Hepatitis C currently doesn’t
have a vaccine available.
Herpes
Simplex Virus
There are two types of the herpes simplex virus—HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1
can cause cold sores and skin infections and can be contracted through close
contact through saliva or naval secretions. On the other hand, HSV-2 is often
sexually transmitted. Symptoms of HV-1 may include inflamed gums, mouth ulcers,
and a sore throat, and you should seek emergency dental treatment after
diagnosis. To treat, you may be prescribed antiviral drugs.
If you’ve had any of these STDs and received treatment, it’s possible
to contract the disease again from an infected partner. Some diseases can
remain dormant before symptoms appear. To prevent contracting any of these
conditions, try to use caution while maintaining a high standard of oral
hygiene. Doing so will help reduce your
risk of infection.
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