Authors: Mohraz Minoo, Amanpour Sara, Alirezaie Somaieh, Bahari Bandari Arash, Mafi Sahar
Introduction: A few studies have addressed oral lesions in HIV+ patients of Iran and the possible problems in access to the oral health care services. This study for the first time was designed to evaluate the oral and dental health status of these patients and issues regarding dental care services in Iran.
Methods and Materials: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 130 HIV/AIDS patients. Decay, missing and filling teeth (DMFT) and community periodontal index (CPI) were used to evaluate dental and periodontal status of the subjects respectively. Data were analyzed using SPSS v.21 and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Study subjects had a higher mean of DMFT (21.66 ~22) in comparison to the general Iranian population stated in other studies. Subjects had a high prevalence of periodontal disease and just 1.5% of the subjects had a healthy periodontium according to (CPI). Most of the patients stated the high cost of dental care services and rejection by dentist because of HIV were the most barriers to get dental care.
Conclusion: Providing special facilities for oral health care delivery to these patients might significantly affect their oral health status and further studies are needed to address the specific dental needs of these patients.
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