Your mouth is like the front door to your body, and it’s often where germs and viruses first make their entrance. Some of these viruses can cause various issues, from annoying symptoms to serious health problems. Consequently, they all fall under the realm of oral pathology in Plantation, FL. It’s best to know about the viral infections that can appear in the mouth.
What Are the Most Common Viral Infections Affecting the Mouth?
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
HSV is a highly contagious virus that can cause oral and genital herpes. Oral herpes, also known as cold sores or fever blisters, typically appears on or around the lips but can also affect the inside of the mouth, including the gums, tongue, and cheeks. These lesions are usually painful and can be accompanied by fever, swollen lymph nodes, and malaise.
Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV)
VZV causes chickenpox during childhood and can later reactivate to cause shingles in adults. Oral manifestations of VZV infection include ulcers, erythema, and vesicles on the tongue, palate, and buccal mucosa. These lesions can be painful and may cause difficulty in eating, speaking, and drinking.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that can cause many oral and genital cancers. Oral manifestations of HPV infection include white or red lesions on the tongue, palate, and tonsils. These lesions may be accompanied by pain, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
CMV is a common virus that can cause serious complications in immunocompromised individuals, including those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, and cancer patients. Oral manifestations of CMV infection include ulcers, erythema, and white patches on the tongue, palate, and gums.
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)
EBV is a ubiquitous virus that can cause infectious mononucleosis and several cancers. Oral manifestations of EBV infection include ulcers, erythema, and white patches on the tonsils and buccal mucosa. These lesions can be accompanied by fever, sore throat, and malaise.
Get Help From the Experts in Oral Pathology in Plantation, FL
At Oral Facial Reconstruction, we’re here to give you an easy-to-understand rundown of the most common viral infections that affect the mouth and what you can do to keep them from causing trouble. Contact us today to make an appointment.
