Immunocompromised people develop oral pathologies that affect their general well-being, so it is essential that they visit the dentist periodically to prevent or treat them.
On the occasion of World AIDS Day, which is commemorated on December 1he General Council of Dentists wants to inform patients who suffer from this disease about the oral pathologies that can affect them.
According to the Ministry of Health, In 2023, 3,196 new HIV diagnoses and 337 cases of AIDS were reported in Spain. “Due to the weakening of their immune system, these people have more chances of suffering from conditions such as cavities, warts and canker sores, candidiasis, gingivitis, periodontitis, hairy leukoplakia or xerostomia“, declares the Dr. Oscar Castropresident of the General Council of Dentists.
“A coordinated and humanized multidisciplinary approach can make a big difference in the quality of life of HIV-positive people”
“Many of these HIV-associated lesions are painful, make chewing and swallowing difficult and, therefore, worsen the quality of life of patients. That is why it is crucial that they go to the dentist regularly to prevent and treat these pathologies, as well as to receive adequate oral hygiene and care guidelines,” adds Dr. Castro. “We must not forget that oral health affects general health and Infections or inflammations in the mouth can aggravate systemic problems in people with HIV. Therefore, adequate care can prevent secondary infections and improve your overall immune status,” he highlights.
In this sense, the General Council of Dentists assures that “dentists are physicians who perfectly know the protocols for treating immunosuppressed people and They play a fundamental role not only in detecting the disease, but also in providing well-being to their patients.. In the dental clinic, care will be provided without prejudice, ensuring an inclusive and respectful environment.”
Finally, Dr. Castro states that “A coordinated and humanized multidisciplinary approach can make a big difference in the quality of life of HIV-positive people. Furthermore, the combined antiretroviral treatments that currently exist make the disease chronic, reduce the viral load and restore the function of the immune system, helping to reduce oral problems and other complications.”
