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Dentistry/HIV and dental issues

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Question
I have HIV and had fuull blown aids in 2004, since then I have noticed a dramatic change in my teeth, a break down of the enamel and have had 2 extractions.  Could my edication be doing this or is it the HIV?  Ive asked my docs but they arent sure..Im wondering...change my meds?

Answer
Dave - Usually it is not the medication directly.  Often, the amount of saliva released is a bit less and, in a drier mouth, the chances of a decay is more.  A help would be to rinse a couple of times a day with an anti-cavity mouthrinse. So contact your dentist and ask for his recommendation of the type of anti-cavity mouthrinse.

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Joel S. Teig, DMD, Diplomate ABOMS, retired

Expertise

I am a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon and I am available to answer questions related to tooth extractions, implant insertion, facial recontruction, facial and oral tumor removal, TMJ dysfunction and various successful treatments, including surgery if all else fails, and occlusal discrepancy requiring orthognathic or jaw surgery.

Experience

Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon practicine for over 20 years. Assistant Clincal Professor and State University School of Dentistry.

Organizations
American Dental Association, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Education/Credentials
BA -University of Connecticut DMD - University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine

Awards and Honors
National Honor Society (OKU), Philadelphia County Dental Society, Mosby Book Award, Oral Surgery Honors, Summa Cum Laude

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