Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a double-stranded DNA virus that only infects humans. Oropharyngeal HPV infection can cause potential oral malignant diseases as well as head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and other adverse consequences. Detection of oropharyngeal HPV infection is the key to early diagnosis and treatment. In recent years, nucleic acid detection and immunohistochemistry (IHC) are the mainstream method for the HPV detection, and many alternative methods have also been rapidly developed. This article reviewed the research progress of adverse effects and detection methods of oropharyngeal HPV infection, so as to provide reference for clinical application.