Question
Should I tell my dentist I am HIV positive?
Do I have to tell my dentist I have HIV? I have read and heard conflicting things, my doctor says no but a previous one said I should. However, it seems that many people who have told their dentist had then had a huge problem trying to find a new one. I know this is discrimination but it still seems to happen sadly.
16 May 2011 • Related: All topics, Disclosure, Healthcare worker-patient relationship
Answer
Thank you for your question.
It is your decision whether or not to tell your dentist about your status. Legally you are not obliged to do so. If you have a good relationship with your dentist and you trust them then it may be worth considering.
For a full answer to your question please follow this link to a similar question.
Answer: Charlotte Walker
Comments
Cindy • 16 May 2011 10:58 am
Its really sad but we should understand that no matter how aware the people in the medical proffession are they are still human beings, If I were HIV -ve i’d do the same. Its a manageable condition but nobody will willingly say ‘ok I dont mind if I have it or not’ because where do you start from. The stigma out there is outrageous.
I’m taking one day at a time and believing a cure will be found and life will truly go on.
I have no intentions of telling my dentist or GP. I have sisters that are medical doctors and anything i need i get from them free of charge!