A severely decayed tooth is a common reason for rotten teeth extraction. Oral health would sometimes be the first to be affected when a person has HIV. The virus works by targeting the immune system and weakening it. This means that the person may become more susceptible to infections and other illnesses. In the mouth of a person with HIV, this would mean that there is an increased risk of tooth loss.
Rotten teeth extraction in patients with HIV
Since the oral health of an HIV patient would be on the decline, the patient would have an increased risk of many oral problems such as gingivitis, chronic dry mouth and various other oral problems that would promote tooth decay and tooth loss.
The dentist will try to save the tooth at all costs, but they could recommend tooth extraction if the case is very severe.
Harsh decay. Repair would not be possible if too much of the tooth has rotten away from decay. Decay could also cause teeth to crack and break. It would be very difficult for a dentist to repair a rotten tooth if there is very little of the tooth left. In these cases, they will recommend that the rotten tooth be extracted instead.
Root canal treatment is not suitable. In some instances, a tooth will not be well-rooted to the bone because of advanced periodontal diseases in HIV patients. A root canal is done in an effort to save a tooth, it cannot be a logical treatment method if the tooth will fall out or is too rotten to save.
Intense gum disease. In HIV patients, there is an increased risk of periodontal disease. Gum diseases make teeth loose and more prone to decay because the bacteria can be able to get into the tooth through the loose gums.
Can HIV patients prevent bad oral health?
Achieving good oral health in patients with HIV is not altogether impossible. Good oral practices such as brushing and flossing regularly will promote good oral health, keep teeth from rotting as well as keep plaque and tartar at bay.
If there are no problems with the immune system of an HIV patient, oral health problems are also less likely to occur. It is a good idea for a patient to go for regular check-ups with a doctor to monitor the health of the immune system. Also keeping up with regular dentist’s appointments will ensure that good oral health will be maintained.
Rotten teeth can develop in anyone, not just in HIV patients. The key to preventing rotten teeth and bad oral health would be brushing properly, using a soft-bristled brush and a good quality fluoride toothpaste. If you feel that your oral health is not at its best, your dentist can evaluate what you can do better, give recommendations about what you can change about your oral practices and also tell you if there is something you should be concerned about. Prevention is always better than cure in the world of dental health, so that rotten teeth extraction can be prevented.
