Braces and HIV+

[Pauluk1983]

Hi all. I have recently tested positive for hiv. I have had Braces for 3 years and have approximatley 6 months left until there off. I'm not 100% sure where I stand with telling my ortho. It's not like a general dentist where there are sharp instruments used and blood ect. Not sure what I should do!

[kennyandrew85]

Of course you should tell him, why would you not? to save yourself an awkward conversation?

HIV can't be transmitted through Saliva, however I would still let any doctor/dentist treating me know.

I had the hygienist do a cleaning before an adjustment recently and my gums were all bleeding.

[Mirai404]

Yeah you should. Anything related to biology... you never know what will happen. Think about others and yourself. Your orthodontist deserve to know and he may advise you on what you should do or take precautions.

[NICURN85]

Hi
I am a nurse and I think your orthodontist has the right to know for his safety his staff working with your braces safety and your safety also. Like Kenny said above it could be a day they perform a task with your braces and blood could be involved. For example, I was at the ortho once and got an adjustment and the tool they use to move the ligs slipped and cut my gum.So I think it would be wise of you to inform them for everyone's safety. I wish you the best!!

[Dee17]

First of all, I'm sorry to hear about your change in health status. I'm sure it must be very upsetting with you. Disclosing that you have HIV to anyone is always going to be a tricky thing for you. Some people need to know, others don't. But in the case of your orthodontist and his or her treatment team, of course they need to know. Even though every dental professional should always be using universal precautions, they are still entitled to know. This is for their own safety as well as yours. Good luck with your decision and the rest of your treatment. I wish you all the best.

[cavomington]

I'm surprised it wasn't a question that was asked on your "application" form. It was on mine.

[Roboto]

I'm very sorry to hear that Pauluk!

I agree with everyone else that you should let your ortho know.. Braces are a really up close and personal procedure where people spend nearly the whole appointment with their hands in your mouth. Plus, it's so easy to make the mouth bleed. Maybe you could ask for a private meeting with him/her so you don't have the blurt it out for whoever's around to hear? I doubt they will really change their procedures or treat you differently, but it's still important that they be aware.

[Pauluk1983]

Just to let you know I had a long conversation with my ortho at my last appointment an told him about my health situation. He was very understanding

[Dee17]

I'm not the least bit surprised. I think you did the right thing. I'm sure that him having his information will not affect either your treatment or the way he interacts with you. Stay healthy.

[Lopez]

You did the right thing.

[NICURN85]

I am glad everything went well. You did the right thing!! I am so happy your ortho was understanding.

[Mirai404]

Stay healthy. Happy that your ortho is understanding. Not all orthos are like that. You have a good ortho

[fosterp]

You can be held liable for not disclosing this kind of thing if the worst case scenario were to happen.

[tfischer]

Good for you - I imagine that was a difficult conversation to have - but you are better for it!!! I am sorry you have this but hope you can keep a wonderful positive attitude...

[deessepeaubrune]

interestingly, on my new patient forms, it had a a section for sexually transmitted diseases.

i wish they would have just asked specific questions.

i'm glad your talk went well tho.