Besides having a good-looking smile, there are many reasons to take care of your mouth and teeth. Teeth make it easier to eat a variety of different foods and help you to be able to speak clearly. Unhealthy gums can lead to painful mouth infections and even some more serious health problems.
If you are HIV positive, when your CD4 count is low you have an extra risk for mouth infections or mouth thrush. Regular teeth brushing and flossing can help you keep a healthy smile (and a healthy mouth).
Nutrition (or the food that is in your diet) can also help or hurt your teeth. Going for teeth cleanings at the dentist twice a year can help keep your mouth and teeth healthy, and can help stop teeth problems before they get too bad.
As with all healthcare, it’s a good idea to let dentists know if you have any
serious medical conditions or are taking any medication. This will help them ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatment.
HIV positive people have the same right to see a dentist as anyone else. General hygiene precautions are enough to prevent the transmission of HIV during dental treatment.
