AIDS and Dental Care
Dental Facts
Fact: Oral infections and ulcers are common among individuals with immune suppression.
Fact: Thirty to fifty percent of people with AIDS experience severe periodontal disease, which can result in loss of bone and teeth.
Fact: Managing your HIV/AIDS diagnosis includes taking care of your mouth, teeth, and gums.
Fact: The best care is preventative, so it's important to see your dentist regularly.
Why Regular Dental Checkups?
Regular check ups are important to help keep your mouth healthy by
- preventing tooth decay
- preventing gum disease
- assisting with early detection of any HIV related infections that occur in the mouth
- helping you avoid potential problems with your gums and teeth that may interfere with eating
Also, professional dental care can help prevent and treat infections that occur in the mouth. Below are some infections that your dentist may help diagnosis.
- Oral warts
- Gum disease
- Periodontal disease
- Kaposi's sarcoma
- Hairy leukoplakia
- Oral ulcers
- Thrush
- Oral carcinoma
Oral Health
In addition to getting professional dental car, you must practice good oral hygiene at home. Performing the following will help ensure healthy teeth and gums:
- At least two times a day brush your teeth, tongue and gums
- Floss at least once a day
- Rinse or gargle with mouthwash at least once a day
Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice every day and getting regular dental exams will help you prevent gum and periodontal disease.
Finding A Dentist
If you do not have Medi-Cal, CMS, or private insurance free dental care is available through the Ryan White program at the locations below.
- Hillcrest Dental Clinic
- 2850 Sixth Avenue, Ste. 205
- San Diego, CA 92103
- 683-7595
- Comprehensive Health Center
- 3177 Oceanview Blvd.
- San Diego, CA
- 231-9300
- Escondido Community Health Center
- 401 E. Valley parkway
- Escondido, CA
- 760-737-2018
- Logan Heights Family Health Center
- 1809 National Avenue
- San Diego, CA 92113
- 234-8172
- North County Health Services
- 150 Valpreda road
- San Marcos, CA
- 760-736-6794
Please send any questions or comments to the Owen Clinic Webmaster.
