Does HIV affect teeth and gums?
Does HIV affect teeth and gums?
Some of the most common oral problems for people with HIV/AIDS are: chronic dry mouth, gingivitis, bone loss around the teeth (periodontitis), canker sores, oral warts, fever blisters, oral candidiasis (thrush), hairy leukoplakia (which causes a rough, white patch on the tongue), and dental caries.
Does HIV cause gum pain?
Oral (mouth) problems can be very common in people living with HIV. Oral health can often be an indicator of overall health. Therefore, if HIV weakens your immune system, you may be at greater risk for gum problems (gingivitis or periodontal disease), mouth infections, and sores.
What does oral HIV look like?
Oral herpes usually appears as red sores in the mouth. When they appear outside the lips, they may look like blisters. Nicknamed “fever blisters,” these red, raised bumps can be painful. They’re also known as cold sores.
What causes swollen gums?
If you have swollen, inflamed gums, you know they can lead to serious discomfort. The most common cause of inflammation is gum disease, but improper brushing or flossing, tobacco use, chemotherapy, hormone changes, and irritation from dental hardware can also play a role.
Do swollen gums go away?
Typically sore gums will go away with time, but if additional symptoms do appear, then it may be best to consult with a dentist. Knowing what the best ways are to relieve the gums of discomfort can be extremely beneficial.
Can a virus cause gum swelling?
Fever and inflammation in the mouth leading to swollen gums can accompany a variety of different medical conditions. Examples include infections like influenza, sinusitis, or viral sore throat. These symptoms are typically associated with other symptoms related to the infection as well.
What are the symptoms of swollen gums?
There is a variety of different symptoms that can occur simultaneously with gum swelling, most of which are not serious and do not indicate a severe medical problem. In addition to swelling, gums might be: Swollen gums might also be accompanied by bad breath, loosening of the teeth, nausea, and digestive issues.
Why is gum disease more common in HIV?
Gum disease is more common in those with HIV due to a weakened immune system. The discomfort and irritation caused by gum disease can lead to swelling or pain. Because of these factors, it’s especially important for those with HIV to practice good dental hygiene.
Can HIV cause dry mouth and sore mouth?
HIV can cause the salivary glands to swell, which can lead to reduced saliva production and dry mouth. Saliva protects the teeth and gums from plaque and helps fight off infection. Dry mouth can also be a side effect of HIV medications. Symptoms of dry mouth include:
Why do HIV patients have more dental problems?
Gum Disease Gum disease is more common in those with HIV due to a weakened immune system. The discomfort and irritation caused by gum disease can lead to swelling or pain. Because of these factors, it’s especially important for those with HIV to practice good dental hygiene.
