Systemic Disease Manifestations in the Oral Cavity

Abstract

The oral cavity is the window to the body and is often the area where systemic disease first presents itself. The various tissues including lips, tongue, gingiva, mucosal surfaces, dentition and bone are involved in the presentation of disease state. This review introduces an organized structure for the oral examination as well as presenting signs in various parts of the oral cavity. The review is not all inclusive however does address some of the most common, as well as a few of the more rare, disease states seen in both adults and children. A chart is included at the end of the article outlining the various disease states included as well as the area of the oral cavity in which they can be manifested.