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HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS and Oral Health

What Oral Problems are Caused by HIV/AIDS?

People with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), are at special risk for oral health problems. Many of these problems arise because the person’s immune system is weakened and less able to fight off infection.

Some of the most common oral problems for people with HIV/AIDS include:

  • oral warts
  • fever blisters
  • hairy leukoplakia
  • oral candidiasis (thrush)
  • aphthous ulcers, often called canker sores

People with HIV/AIDS may also experience dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and can make chewing, eating, swallowing, and even talking difficult.

Treatment

Many of the common oral health problems associated with HIV can often be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medications. There are also self-care steps you can take to help ease dry mouth.

To learn more about HIV/AIDS and oral health, please see:

Publications

Publications in Spanish

News Releases and Articles

Reports from Conferences, Meetings and Workshops

Other Government Information

  • MedlinePlus:  HIV/AIDS and Oral Health
    The National Library of Medicine's compilation of links to government, professional and non-profit/voluntary organizations with information on HIV/AIDS and oral health.



     

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    This page last updated: February 13, 2013