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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Hi. Anyone Experience Dental Issues Related To Their HIV Meds?

A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
Tucson, AZ

Anyone experience dental issues, such as cavities, loss of, or soft enamel and/or gum erosion as an adverse effect of their HIV meds, Atripla, specifically? I've been taking Atripla since it became available, 10+ yrs ago, and I'm having these dental issues, despite taking care of my teeth. My dentist thinks it's from the meds causing dry mouth, so that bacteria thrives in the mouth, softening enamel at the gumline, creating a good environment for cavities to form.

November 22, 2018
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Answer Summary

Members widely confirmed experiencing serious dental problems linked to HIV medications, particularly Atripla and other drugs containing... Read more

Members widely confirmed experiencing serious dental problems linked to HIV medications, particularly Atripla and other drugs containing Viread, with issues ranging from enamel erosion and receding gums to teeth becoming brittle, breaking, or disintegrating entirely despite consistent oral care. Several members shared practical strategies including Prevident prescription toothpaste for dry mouth, hydrogen peroxide gargles to reduce bacteria, and affordable moisturizing products like Target's Biotene alternative, while also discussing the bone loss caused by some HIV meds that complicates implant options and leaves many facing expensive dentures. A recurring theme was the financial and emotional toll of dental deterioration, ongoing lawsuits against medication manufacturers, and navigating disclosure fears with dental offices, though some members found compassionate care by being open about their status.

A myHIVteam Member

Ramon, I read your post and I need to tell you that all Dentist are to practice using Universal Precautions, I have never told the dentist anything about being POZ and I make sure I don't tell them about the HIV meds! Nowadays it's thier responsibility to protect you and themselves! Some on this site might not like how I handle this, but I'm old school POZ and 30yrs ago no dentist would touch you! Praying for you my friend!

November 27, 2018
A myHIVteam Member

I've been reading some of the horror stories related to dental problems and how hopeless some feel! This is an area that absolutely freaks me out! I'm in the same boat and the thought of loosing my teeth is something I just can't deal with! Two years ago my lower 4 from teeth turned to pulp and disintegrated! The meds have blocked the absorption of phosphorus and calcium and I have osteoporosis! Just sayin! I saw the post about the high cost of Biotene and need to let everyone know that Target now carries a 33oz bottle of thier brand for 5 bucks and yes it does help! Hope everyone takes this issue seriously before it's too late!

November 27, 2018
A myHIVteam Member

We told our dentist our HIV status when we first started going to him 14 yrs ago and he and his staff have never been anything but super to us . . . give 'em a chance, you may be pleasantly surprised.

November 26, 2018
A myHIVteam Member

Have you tried gargles with 75%water and 25% Hydrogen peroxide, DO NOT SWALLOW, it can be deadly but it wirk getting rid of bacteria.

November 29, 2018
A myHIVteam Member

Use a moisturizing toothpaste and mouthwash. HIV meds play havoc with oral health

November 26, 2018

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