Question

Do I have to disclose to my dentist?

1 October 2010. Related: All topics, Disclosure, Opportunistic infections.

Hi,

I have not disclosed to my dentist yet and wondered if I was in some way legally obliged to do so. They take all the necessary precautions when treating me so your views would be welcome.

Thanks

Answer

Answer: Charlotte Walker

Thank you for your question.

All healthcare professionals should use universal safety precautions.

This means they assume everyone has a bloodborne infection and protect themselves and the people they treat accordingly. This means you are not putting anyone at risk by not disclosing and so are not legally obliged to tell your dentist about your HIV status.

However, there are certain oral infections that are more prevalent in HIV positive people and if your dentist is aware of your status then he or she can look for them and ensure you get the level of care that you require. Similarly with drugs and drug interactions. If your dentist prescribes you some drugs they would need to be aware of any other treatment you are on to ensure there are no interactions.

For more information about disclosing to healthcare professionals such as your dentist please follow this link

For more information about dentists who are HIV specialists and some personal accounts of disclosure to dentists please follow this link