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My hiv clinic referred me to a dentist that the clinic approved or had a reputation. Need to ask your ID dr for a referral. The thought of going to my rural dentist was horrifying and concerning that people would gossip. Even with this being said the dental hygienist tore her glove doing a simple cleaning and spazzed out creating a scene.
Even in this day there still are Dr's who panic at HIV/AIDs. Its now the first question out of my mouth. 99% of the dr's just want to know my counts and prefer me to someone who has never been tested cause they know exactly what I do/dont have. Dentists still freak out. My first clue to the office attitude is on the intake sheet do they ask about HIV or AIDs. Those that call it HIV seem to be better about it then those who call it AIDs. I really need a dentist soon and this scares me.
The first time I disclosed to my dentist, she was like was your VL and are you in treatment. I've been undetectable for many years. I gave her my doctors information and told her what medication I'm taking, her reply was I still cant even touch you or do any type of work or cleaning without your written consent from your doctor. Once you have that document I can start doing your cleaning.???? It was hard to disclose and never been treated like that by a medical professional.
I absolutely do not disclose at any dentist I have gone to over past 15 years. When funding was available and the state I lived in had an actual hiv dental office in conjunction with the hospital then yes of course. But when I moved to lower states in southeast I would have been considered a leper so I did not. Universal precautions on my side. I HATE the first thing you are usually asked is how did you contract hiv. What is the difference? The only person who cares is a person who judges.
I have tried to find a dentist, When I tell them I'm told either no or where not taking any new patients sorry, So I just don't go any more!
YES, You do! It has nothing to do with legal rights. It has to do with your responsibility to disclose every time you engage in an activity which places another person at risk of infection. There's plenty of blood involved even in a dental cleaning. You would be ethically irresponsible not to do so. In fact it would be to your detriment not to protect yourself. Take Amoxicillin antibiotic two hours before the consult. This will protect you from bacteria entering your compromised immune system.
There's absolutely no need to create panic in the minds of healthcare workers. I've heard of horror stories when a poz person discloses to a dentist. There's no reason to create drama, especially if you're undetectable. Arkansas should have no legal authority to force a private medical status disclosure to anyone, including a dentist. Dentists already take safety precautions for everyone because some people don't know their STI status.
riverhuston
I used to disclose till I became fed up with the reaction and the change in attitude. I am undetectable and have been for 25 years. I am sick of this stigma and all the fears of others so I have peace of mind when I say no.
August 1, 2023