Concerns About Oral Warts: Which Specialist to Consult?

Suspected oral warts?

Hello, doctor.
I was diagnosed with genital warts, but I recently performed oral sex on my partner.
I suspect I may have developed them in my oral cavity.
Which specialty should I consult for this issue? If the warts have already disappeared, can I still transmit the virus to someone who does not have warts during sexual activity?

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/10

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I was diagnosed with genital warts and performed oral sex on my partner.
I suspect I may have them in my mouth as well.
1.
Which department should I visit for oral concerns? Answer: Dentistry.
2.
If the warts have already disappeared, is it possible to transmit them to someone who does not have warts during sexual activity? Answer: In reality, it is highly unlikely to transmit to them.

Reply Date: 2017/05/10

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you have some concerns regarding oral warts, specifically those caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can manifest as genital warts (often referred to colloquially as "cauliflower" due to their appearance). Given your situation, it’s important to approach this matter with care and seek the appropriate medical advice.

1. Which Specialist to Consult: For concerns about oral warts or any lesions in the mouth, the best specialist to consult would be an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a dentist with experience in oral pathology. These professionals are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the mouth, jaws, and face. If you have any lesions or growths in your mouth, they can perform a thorough examination and may recommend a biopsy if necessary to determine the nature of the growths.

2. Transmission Concerns: Regarding your question about the potential for transmission, HPV is primarily spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity. If the warts have completely resolved and there are no visible signs of HPV, the risk of transmission is significantly reduced, but it is not entirely eliminated. HPV can sometimes remain dormant in the body, and while the risk of transmission is lower when there are no active warts, it is still possible to transmit the virus.
3. Safe Practices: If you are concerned about transmitting HPV to a partner, it is advisable to practice safe sex. Using condoms can help reduce the risk of transmission, although they do not provide complete protection since HPV can infect areas not covered by a condom. Open communication with your partner about your health status is also crucial.

4. Follow-Up: If you notice any new growths or changes in your oral cavity, it’s important to follow up with a healthcare provider promptly. Regular dental check-ups can also help monitor your oral health and catch any potential issues early.

5. HPV Vaccination: If you haven’t already, consider discussing the HPV vaccine with your healthcare provider. The vaccine can protect against the types of HPV that most commonly cause genital warts and certain cancers. It is most effective when given before the onset of sexual activity.

6. Emotional Support: Dealing with concerns about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be stressful. If you find yourself feeling anxious or overwhelmed, consider seeking support from a mental health professional or a support group.

In summary, for your oral concerns, consult an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or a dentist specializing in oral pathology. They can provide the necessary evaluation and guidance. Regarding transmission, while the risk is lower when warts are not present, it is still advisable to practice safe sex and maintain open communication with your partner. If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. Take care!

Similar Q&A

What Specialist to See for Oral Warts and HPV Concerns?

1. For oral lesions, you should see an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon or a Dentist who specializes in oral pathology. They can properly diagnose and treat any oral conditions. 2. Yes, there is a possibility of transmitting the virus through kissing, even if your girlfriend has b...

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology
Hello: 1. It is recommended that when dealing with genital warts, you consult with your physician to find out which department in the hospital can assist with oral lesions, as regular dental clinics may not be able to help; oral surgery is typically available only at larger hospi...

Which Specialist to See for Cauliflower-Like Growths on the Tongue?

If you accidentally develop warts on your tongue, should you see a dermatologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist? Which department would be more appropriate to consult? Thank you.

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
If the issue is at the tip of the tongue, a dermatologist can help; however, if it is located further back, please consult an otolaryngologist.

Understanding Oral Warts: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

I am 16 years old and have developed some strange pink bumps under my tongue, about 10 in total, some are separate and some are connected. I am concerned because I performed oral sex on a stranger three weeks ago, so I suspect I might have genital warts or something else. Which d...

Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine
● If you suspect warts, you may want to consult an otolaryngologist. If the diagnosis remains uncertain, you can also visit a dermatologist for further evaluation. ● Treatment options for warts include cryotherapy, electrosurgery, laser therapy, topical wart removal medications, ...

Understanding Oral Warts: When to See a Urologist or Other Specialist

I would like to ask a question. If there are some rough, whitish growths on the inner side of the lower lip, could that be a sign of genital warts? If so, should I see a urologist, or which specialist should I consult? Thank you for your help.

Dr. Chen Jiansheng reply Urology
Otolaryngology