Objectives: To explore unique characteristics of HPV related oral malignant and premalignant lesions and to describe role of dental surgeons in prevention of this viral- induced carcinogenesis.

Methods: Extensive literature search was conducted to identify articles detailing HPV associated diseases. Data collected were categorised under relevant titles of clinical interest.

Results: Peculiarities of HPV linked cancers in head and neck include its different mode of transmission, younger age distribution, irrelevant habit history, good treatment response, better survival rates, less chance of local recurrence and low distant metastasis.

Conclusions: The most distinguishing feature of HPV related head and neck cancers is that it is vaccine preventable. Dental surgeons have got an influential role in creating patient awareness regarding this emerging epidemic. The article advocate further research in this regard.

Key Message:  The carcinogenic potential of Human papilloma virus has been an interesting topic of research for the past few decades. This article discusses the recent epidemiologic and etiologic trends in Human Papilloma Virus – associated head and neck cancers, its presence in precancerous lesions and its implication in dental practise.

Keywords: Human papilloma virus, Head and neck cancers, Viral carcinogenesis

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Dimla Denny Cheruvathoor

Junior Resident, Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Government Dental College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India

Phone number- 9495854948, Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.