Oregon Careers in Healthcare

HIV weakens the immune system, making patients be vulnerable to various infections. The mouth is one of the common parts affected by the deadly disease. As a matter of fact, studies show that a third of HIV patients suffer from oral problems as a result of the condition.  The good news is most oral health problems related to HIV are treatable. You can take advantage of the dentistry services at ddiidentistgosford.com.au/general-dentistry/ to cope with dental and mouth issues realated to HIV. Meanwhile, the prevalent HIV mouth symptoms are discussed below.

1. Dry mouth

Dry mouth is manifested by little saliva, which makes it difficult for HIV patients to chew and swallow food. Besides, the lack of enough saliva in the mouth leads to gum infections and tooth decay. The problem can be alleviated by taking a lot of water or chewing sugar-free gums.

2. Oral thrush

Oral thrush is caused by the Candida albicans fungus. HIV infection weakens the immune system, leading to uncontrollable growth of the fungus. Oral thrush causes white sores or bumps to appear on the inner cheeks, tongue, tonsils, and gums. In addition, the sores itch when they come into contact with food. Fungal medications are used to control oral candidiasis.

3. Hairy leukoplakia

Hairy leukoplakia is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus(EBV) and appears as white and hairy patches on the tongue. The patches can’t be scraped off, unlike the oral thrush patches which can be easily removed using a toothbrush. The patches are commonly painful and present problems in swallowing and chewing.

4. Oral Warts

They’re painless bumps that can develop anywhere inside the mouth. Oral warts are caused by the human papillomavirus(HPV) and are usually white, but at times may be gray or pink. They can bleed when anything brushes against them. A healthcare specialist can perform surgery or use laser treatment to get rid of oral warts.

5. Canker sores

Canker sores frequently affect HIV patients and appear on the tongue, lips, and inner cheeks. They’re small, shallow sores with red edges and white in the center. Chewing, talking or swallowing can easily irritate canker sores. A dentist can prescribe medications to ease the sores.

6.Gum disease(Periodontitis)

Gum disease is preceded by gingivitis, a condition in which the gums get inflamed due to building up of plaque on teeth. The main cause of gum disease is bacteria mainly associated with poor oral hygiene. Periodontitis causes the inner gum to peel away from the teeth to form pockets which may deepen and loosen the infected teeth.

Final say

HIV frequently affects the mouth besides other body parts. Common HIV mouth symptoms include oral thrush, canker sores, oral warts, and dry mouth among others. A visit to a dentist and maintaining proper oral hygiene are some of the ways to quell the symptoms.