Advanced Search
Business | Metro | Nation | World | Sports | Features | Specials | Delta Stories
 
 
Dentists urged to detect AIDS signs
2/11/2005 16:21

Cai Wenjun/Shanghai Daily news

Local dentists are urged to detect and report HIV-AIDS symptoms, disinfect their equipment and wear masks, gloves, glasses and other protective covering.
Medical experts stress that it's very important for dentists to detect HIV-AIDS symptoms early, such as mouth ulcers.
The China branch annual meeting of the International Association for Dental Research was told that control and prevention of virus infection during oral treatment is crucial.
More than 500 dental experts took part in the meeting in the city, discussing dental diseases diagnosis, treatment and new technologies.
Dr Zhou Zengtong of Shanghai No. 9 People's Hospital said that his facility detected two HIV carriers, who had tooth and mouth problems.
"It is possible to transfer HIV virus in dental treatment. And the mouth can develop symptoms of HIV/AIDS," Zhou said.
Some patients have mouth ulcers and facial lymph inflammation, but many doctors may not be aware that these common problems can also be symptoms of AIDS.
Dentists are told to protect themselves with masks, gloves, medical hats and protective glasses in every service.
Disinfection of equipment is also essential since they can transmit HIV.