Oral Manifestations of COVID-19

Abstract

Since the inception of COVID-19 pandemic in November 2019, caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, relationship between corona virus disease and oral effects caused due to viral enanthema have been studied with great interest. Owing to the existence of many ACE2 receptors (which permit entry of virus in the host cell) in the oral cavity, a multitude of oral manifestations have been described. Among various oral symptoms, dysgeusia is the most prevalent. Other oral lesions included ulcer, erosion, vesicle, bulla, depapillated tongue, macule, papule, plaque, pigmentation, whitish areas, petechiae and erythema. Aphthous stomatitis, mucositis were also diagnosed among COVID-19 affected patients. Kawasaki-like disease and atypical Sweet syndrome was also noted in some patients. People with severe disease state and older individuals had significantly more oral lesions. Many oral symptoms were seen in patients post the corona virus disease recovery as well. This may be due to the diverse treatment given to the patients which may have ill-effects. Older age group, underlying diseases, opportunistic infections, poor oral hygiene and stress are the important factors for the development of oral manifestations in COVID-19 patients. Health care workers should be vigilant to identify the various oral manifestations and provide extensive treatment with an intent to improve general status as well as oral health of COVID affected individuals.