Syphilisis a commonsexually transmitted infection(STI) that is characterized by painless sores.
It is typically contracted through genital, anal, or oral sexual activity.
It is known to be a highly contagious bacterial infection.
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This article discusses the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for oral syphilis.
Martin Barraud / Getty Images
Syphilis Symptoms
Oral syphilis shows up when someone contracts the infection orally.
When this happens, the initial symptom is one or multiple sores, known aschancres.
As the disease progresses, it can go through other stages, including secondary, latency, and tertiary.
During secondary oral syphilis,lesionsthat appear as white patches can develop on the inner lips and tongue.
These white patches could also develop into sores orulcers within the mouth.
If that bacteria enters through a cut within the mouth, oral syphilis will develop.
How Else Is Oral Syphilis Transmitted?
Diagnosis
The diagnostic process for oral syphilis is similar to that of other types of syphilis infection.
However, dentists are usually the first to notice or examine the lesions.
Treatment
Syphilis is curable with the use ofantibiotics.
Using protection while participating in oral sexual activities can also help prevent contracting a bacterial infection from another person.
Secondary oral syphilis presents with worsened mouth lesions that can appear as white patches, sores, and ulcers.
Oral syphilis may originally be noticed by a dentist examining the mouth.
The only treatment is antibiotics.
The best way to protect yourself against oral syphilis is to engage in safer-sex practices and get regular screenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Syphilis is a common sexually transmitted infection.
That said, oral syphilis is not as common.
According to research, oral syphilis accounts for only 4%-12% of all syphilis cases.
The speed at which oral syphilis can be diagnosed depends on several factors.
The first is the incubation period, which is the time it takes for symptoms to appear.
Since this number can range dramatically, it can be challenging to determine an actual timeline.
Other factors include how quickly a person sees their healthcare provider for their symptoms and what tests are used.
If testing is used first to rule out other conditions, the diagnosis will take longer.
While it is rare, kissing someone who has an active oral syphilis infection can spread it.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About syphilis.
