Original ContributionsPeriodontal DiseaseAssociation of periodontitis and human papillomavirus in oral rinse specimens: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2009-2012

Background Human papillomavirus (HPV)–positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas are increasing in incidence and are becoming significant public health concerns. Periodontitis is a chronic condition in which the affected tissue may facilitate oral HPV infection and persistence. The purpose of this study was to determine if an association of the presence of HPV in oral rinse specimens and periodontal disease exists.