Abstract
BACKGROUNDS: The non-indigenous tropical infectious diseases that occur in the non-tropics arise from personnel communication between locals and visitors. Many of these infectious diseases involve oral complications. It is very important for practitioners to manage such cases based on a clear understanding of the association between tropical infectious diseases and oral health. In this study, we summarize the oral complications related to tropical infectious diseases and investigate the understanding of infectious disease practitioners in relation to the association between these conditions. In addition, we provide supportive advice to facilitate the oral management of tropical infectious diseases. METHODS: First, we investigate the oral complications related to tropical infectious diseases by performing an appropriate literature search. Then, we analyzed the understanding of 207 Chinese practitioners specializing in infectious diseases in relation to the association between these two conditions by applying a bespoke online questionnaire. RESULTS: Analysis revealed that the Chinese practitioners had very poor attitudes and knowledge relating to the association between tropical infectious diseases and oral health. Different backgrounds had no significant impact on the understanding of Chinese practitioners with regards to the association between tropical infectious diseases and oral health. CONCLUSION: Many oral complications are related to tropical infectious diseases. The understanding of Chinese practitioners with regards to the association between infectious disease and oral health was very inadequate. It is essential to promote publicity and education relating to infectious tropical diseases and oral health.