The Resource Train The Importance of Dental CareNovember/December 2004
Reasons why oral health is important to individuals living with HIV:
Common Oral ManifestationsThere are several oral manifestations associated with HIV. An important part of proper dental health care for individuals living with HIV is to be able to differentiate one manifestation from another, as well as practicing proper dental hygiene as a preventative measure to promote a healthy mouth.Oral CandidiasisThis condition occurs frequently and is most often called "thrush." The affected area can be all over the mouth and possibly in the throat. The problem appears as white patches that can be wiped away, leaving a red surface. Some of the symptoms related with oral candidiasis are pain, loss of taste, distortion of taste, burning and discomfort.Kaposi's SarcomaKaposi's Sarcoma is the most common tumor associated with HIV and may initially appear as an intraoral tumor. The affected area is commonly on the roof of the mouth, but may also appear throughout the entire oral cavity. The symptoms of Kaposi's Sarcoma are red or purple patches or swellings, which may appear as raised or flat and may become painful.Hairy LeukoplakiaThis is a common condition which appears usually without any symptoms. This is a white lesion that most often presents on the sides of the tongue; however, it may appear in other parts of the mouth. If symptoms present, the oral manifestation is described as white, streaky, "hairy" patches that cannot be scraped off.Gingivitis and PeriodontitisThis is a commonly occurring problem, often described as the most painful of oral manifestations. Gingivitis and periodontitis affect the gums and teeth. Symptoms include inflammation of the gums, swelling, bleeding, bad breath and breaks in the seal between the gums and teeth.XerostomiaThis problem is also called dry mouth. This is one of the most common complaints among individuals living with HIV. This problem should be addressed immediately to ensure the prevention of dental decay and periodontal problems. The affected areas can be the entire mouth and throat. The symptoms of dry mouth include the observation of reduced saliva production, leading to ongoing dryness of the mouth and throat area.The above oral manifestations and descriptions are not a comprehensive listing of all potential problems. There are several other oral manifestations which may occur; however, the above have been listed as the most common. If you would like more information on specific oral manifestations, www.HIVdent.org and www.projectinform.org are two resources that can help in your research. Promoting Good Oral HealthAfter understanding potential oral manifestations it is essential to learn the general guidelines promoted by the American Dental Association as a preventative measure associated with good oral health.
Finding a Dentist That is Right for YouDental care is an important aspect of general health care. However, one must not overlook the issues of finding a dentist that is right for you. Finding a dentist can often be a difficult process, and it is important to find someone you feel comfortable with, one to whom you are willing to disclose your HIV status. This is important because there are conditions and problems such as those discussed in this article that the dentist will need to pay attention to during your regular checkups. Hopefully after reading this article, you will have a better understanding of the importance of dental care to your overall health.If you don't already have a dentist, take this opportunity to do some research. There are several outlets for research to find a dentist that fits your needs. First, if you feel comfortable doing so, you may want to ask your doctor for a referral to a dentist or for a listing of area dentists with experience working with individuals living with HIV. Also, there are several listings in the resource database at AIDS Survival Project. Just give a peer counselor a call at (404) 874-7926 ext. 11 and ask for help locating a dentist in your area. Lastly, if you still need help locating a dentist, visit www.HIVdent.org, which provides information on HIV dental care as well as referrals to HIV dental programs in your community. ![]()
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