Dentists say they can tell if a patient has recently performed oral sex, due to distinct changes inside the mouth that last up to three days after the act.
A number of dental professionals have recently taken to social media to share the ‘fun fact’ in several clips, to the general horror and embarrassment of other users.
The tell-tale sign is a rash of pinpoint-sized red or purple marks at the back of the roof of the mouth, medically known as palatal petechiae.
These marks are caused by bleeding beneath the tissues—much like a bruise.
Palatal petechiae can be triggered by an illness, such as Covid, strep throat, or glandular fever—due to a virus or bacteria damaging the blood supply to the mouth.
But in the case of oral sex, it’s caused by something repeatedly, and vigorously, hitting the back of the mouth.
This, combined with the negative pressure created by a sucking action boosting blood flow in the mouth, increases the risk of marks appearing.
Most dentists take a note of it during examinations even if they don’t bring it up with the patient as, if the marks don’t heal, further investigation may be needed.
One dentist sharing the fact, Dr Britany Baker, wrote to her 23,000 followers on Instagram : ‘How can your dental provider tell you have participated in oral sex? Palatal petechiae
Medically known as ‘palatal petechiae’ this condition looks like a ‘hicky’ or a red-spotted rash at the back of the roof of the mouth
