My dentist visit experience as a Hep C'er

   My first visit to the dentist while I "knowingly" had Hep c was a bit embarrassing. The dentist did not ask me how i "got it" at least. But I found it ODD that  I had a filling that was old and needed to be replaced and when I asked him if he could do this he said it was better to leave it alone. He cleaned my teeth and did use the little hooik to chip away some of the tartar on my teeth but not all. I did bleed allot and of course had warned him about the hep c before hand ..so I can't really blame him. I f he didn't do a thorough job because he was afraid of becoming infected how can you not understand that. He told me I needed to see a periodontist, which didn't surprise me because I had had gum surgery when I was only 21 for gum disease. (I was about 44 at the time of THIS dentist visit). I went home but never called a periodontist because I was just too embarrassed.
   Yesterday I went back to a new dentist a co-worker kept nagging me to go to. My co-worker does not know I have Hep C. He kept bugging me to go to see his dentist ..there are not many dentists in my area that accept the insurance I now have and I really neede to see a dentist since I hadn't been in 4 years..so I finally went.
   I did the what I consider the right thing and told him right away that I had Hep C and asked him if he was alright with this. He asked me if had consulted my doctor, and said that I may need to take antibiotics first like people with heart murmurs and such, before getting dental treatment. I told him I had never heard of that for Hep C.  He then asked me how I got Hep C. This was really humililating to me since I don't see why that matters, but I told him it was probably from some tattoos I had gotten when I was younger. The truth is I USED to main line heroiin way before anyone knew about AIDS and HEP C and I probably got it back then..but I really don't feel comfortabe telling people I used to be a junky..Now i am Not but NOW i have Hep C and no matter how clean I live my life now and how STUPID i NOW know I was I will ALWAYS have this Hep C to remind me of my passt and it really *****! He looked at my x rays and told my I had a large cavity and gum disease, he said he would only polish my teeth and to talk to my doctor. Before leaving I asked him that if I talk to my doctor and he tells me it is OK to go to the dentist, I wanted to know honestly if the Hep C would be a problem with him, he said he would have to see after I spoke to my doctor.
   On the train ride home I felt so depressed and dirty. I started to think paranoid thoughts about him telling my co-worker about me, "You know that woman you reccomended to see me...she's got Hepatitis C!!!" Oh God ..I hope not, but it does worry me. When I got home I  told myself it would be alright, I will find another dentist. I went online and looked for dentists that take my insurance. I found a good dentist in my area after MUCH web surfing and am going to call tomorrow morning for an appointment.
   And now the Question that BURNS in my brain...Do I tell THIS dentist I have Hep C!!?? I know the morally correct answer is YES..YES OF COURSE! But now I think if this dentist is afraid to treat me I have just about run out of options, my dam tooth is hurting and I need to get it fixed AND then see a periodontist...AND aren't dentists SUPPOSSED to clean all their utensils THOUROUGHLY?  Also, so many people have Hep C and don't even know.
I am thinking of just asking the dentist to please be sure to thouroughly clean all the equipment because a "friend" I  know contacted Hep C from haveing dental work and thereby asking them how well they clean everything...would that be responsible enough?? I would never never want to pass this Hep C on to anyone , am I correct in thinking if the dentist is CLEAN no one will be infected from me? Would it be horrible not to tell the dentist I have Hep C?? And if I do tell the dentist and I end up losing all my teeth because I can't find a dentist how will take my insurance AND treat me...THEN have I done the right thing??
DEPRESSED AND CONFUSED.
  

[Rockerforlife]

There are densists out there that specialize i hep c patients,,,,OR...you can just go to regular denstist and keep yopur mouth shut....choice is yours.

[Andiamo1]

I always felt an obligation to be honest and I think everyone with HCV should tell anyone that could be infected about the danger.  I was always honest with any dentist and managed to get excellent dental care over the years.

Don't sweat it.  Doctors and dentists know how to deal with it.  Most importantly, they work for you.  You are paying their salary while they work.  You should demand the best care and don't feel ashamed about anything.

[lapis]

As Rocker says, the choice is yours....but I always tell all my health care providers I have HCV.  Although all health care providers in the US are required to use standard precautions (thus treating every client as if they could have a communicable disease by wearing gloves, careful handwashing, sterilizing reusable equipment, etc), still it seems my responsibility to provide that information, since my blood is contagious.  

I currently see a periodontist who has replaced several fillings, pulled a tooth to place a bridge, etc, and I get my teeth cleaned every 3 months; there has been no conversation about my HCV, although I did provide that information in my initial health history.  

Maybe you could just call your medical doctor, and ask if he/she has any specific recommendations for dental work for people with HCV.  Then maybe you could screen your next choice of dentist by phone.  At least you'd be able to tell him/her that you have spoken to your doctor first.  I'm not aware of any recommendations for HCV pts to get antibiotics before dental tx, and this has never been required of me (and I've been + for 12 years, and gotten regular dental care (at least every 6 months) this whole time.

I have also experienced that frustration of feeling judged when I told someone about my HCV.  Even though I never injected drugs, there is a stigma associated with this disease, and I'm sorry your dental experiences have reflected that.  A good and educated dentist and dental staff should know how to protect themselves against all blood-borne diseases, and should take the proper precautions to do so.  My hygienist wears a face-mask and goggles and gloves, and I do not begrudge her these protections in any way.  In fact, if someone begins to draw my blood without gloves on, I tell them to wear gloves please.

So take a deep breath, begin with the knowledge that you are deserving of excellent dental care, and find a dentist who will work for and with you.  I wish you the best of luck in pursuing this for yourself!

[pitter]

hi Scarlette,
I would just do the "I have a friend thing"
I mainly say that bcz  I have 2 avenues of where I think I got it. , and one is through dental work, and nobody there warned me!!!
Should you  bare your soul to these people.? Hah  they may charge you more money too.! I don't mean to be negative ...but just do what you have to do to take care of yourself.!  of course - not to put anyone else in jeopardy of contracting hep c  either, but I think we probably care more than they do. Just get your teeth fixed.!!!
I have had some eye opening experiences with medical people over the last few years...you have to be seriously proactive in your own health care these days.
I think most medical people are so over loaded with people, and pain in the butt people, that they just can only handle so much... I don't expect any cushy care from any health care people at all any more.
So my vote - is to only tell whom you have to tell.
all the best
Pitter

[copyman]

exactly why I would never tell my dentist or anyone not close to me. real shame but this is the stigma attached to this disease. any good dentist should be practicing the ADA standard protocol that is to protect you and themselves from hepatitis, hiv, etc

[jmjm530]

Very early on I felt a compulsion to tell people like Dentists I had HCV . From experiences like yours, I am over that compulsion now and only disclose on a need to know basis, i.e. where I feel the need for them to know :)  Dentists and all medical professionals are supposed to take universal precautions to protect all of us from those with HIV, HCV and who knows what else walks into the office on probably a daily basis. It's a shame you had to subject yourself to the stupidity of this dentist. Do yourself a favor and don't expose yourself to the stupdity of another. Hopefully most dentists know how to clean and fix teeth. Many don't know any more about Hep C than they do about brain surgery.

-- Jim

[moahunter]

It all depends on the dentist I guess. I decided to tell mine (before I was SVR). No issues at all, they didn't even blink, and proceeded to remove three wisdom teeth and replace a half dozen filings.  

I felt better telling - I mean, if your dentist reacts stupidly and ignorantly, perhaps thats not someone you want working on your teeth?

[Facta_non_verba]

I'm for telling anyone who may be exposed to my blood. I had spine surgery a few months before starting treatment, and I told my surgeon right away that I had Hep C. He had a right to know so he could take extra steps to protect himself. Also, he had a right to refuse to treat me, so he needed the facts.

It's true that we're all supposed to practice universal precautions, but knowing someone has a blood-borne communicable disease makes me extra careful with every incision I make and every stitch I place. I always take care to let the scrub nurse know that I'm placing a needle or blade on the mayo stand, but I'm even more cautious when I know the patient has hep C or any other thing that might infect me or the O.R. staff.

As for the feelings of shame that go along with having Hep C, you're not alone. Many of us had or have to face that. For myself, I just don't give a damn about that. Then again, everyone probably assumes it was from a needle stick anyway, so I would be more likely to be seen as unfortunate rather than a bad person. I didn't tell anyone at work mainly because I didn't want people constantly asking me how I was doing. I also might have faced discrimination despite the CDC and American College of Surgeons recommendations that surgeons with Hep C should face no restrictions in practice and that they need not inform their patients.

Just me two cents.

Jeff
Facta non Verba

[Proactive]

You did the right thing and I hope you continue to do so..I certainly, in clear conscience could not place having my feelings hurt, above the possibility of infecting another person with the virus. I mean my goodness, especailly at a dentist office, or where ever any chances off blood exposure are possible, how could you not inform, and still sleep well at night?
Best of luck on your decision, I did tell my dentist and all other medical professionals...only others I informed were my immediate family.
Pro

[Trinity4]

If they don't ask, I don't tell.  Heathcare provider or not and I do sleep well.
Trinity

[Proactive]

Interesting.......so let's look at pitter's case, to quote her
"I mainly say that bcz  I have 2 avenues of where I think I got it. , and one is through dentalDental cavities Tooth abscess work, and nobody there warned me!!! "
Let's say, for the sake of argument pitter did get infected at the dentist's office, and let's say you just happened to have the appointment just prior to her visit and infact through you, she did contract hcv...My belief is, that dentist may have taken extra precautions as a result of your devulging your infection, hell, that is human nature...sorry, I'm not going to take that chance..Cripes, I'm svr and still wouldn't let someone take a splinter out of my finger, I'm just not willing to that chance. To each their own I reckon , sleep well.
Pro

[justme53]

I informed my dentist and staff for their benefit as well as mine. If it's one less chance of someone else accidentally contracting HCV, it's worth it to me. And now if I need any dental work done during tx, they're aware of any challenges I may present with lowered platelets, depressed immune system and possible drug interactions.

Pam

[Trinity4]

There was a rather controversial discussion about this very same thing some months ago.  After reading many posts and seriously thinking about it I decided to tell my dentist.  No where on the medical information application was I asked if I had HCV.  When I discussed this with them I asked why they didn't require me to divulge.  They indicated they took universal precautions with everyone, regardless of health status.  They took no additional precautions with a person who had HCV.  It was standard policy within their practice and indicated all health care facilities should follow the same protocols because that is part of the training in all medical and dental schools.  My dentist said knowing my status now he would not perform any extensive dental procedures such as implants until after treatment.  I was good to hear that they are compliant with sterilization procedures regardless of health status and do not view anyone with hepc as a potential hazard to others.
Trinity

[Proactive]

It just seems to me, that along with this disease comes the huge responsibility to protect others from it, even at costs to ourselves.Sometimes inaction or our part not only could put others at risk, but could be a squandered opportunity to break the viral chain itself -who knows, right?..
Who was it, James Dean who said "the lives you might save might be mine"..
Pro...who is getting off the soapbox....;^)

[jmjm530]

Trinity: My dentist said knowing my status now he would not perform any extensive dental procedures such as implants until after treatment.
------------------------
I'm assuming because of your prior statements that the reason has to do with the side effects of treatment as opposed to your dentist being worreid about accidental transmission?

Proactive: Let's say, for the sake of argument pitter did get infected at the dentist's office, and let's say you just happened to have the appointment just prior to her visit and infact through you, she did contract hcv.
------------------------------------
I'm sure that happened. Not likely with "Trinity" and Pitter", of course, but just think how many millions of people with HIV and HCV walk into a dentists office every year and how many millions of people walk right into that dentists office right after that patient. Given this reality, how can any dentist (or doctor) treat a patient in any manner without assuming they have something like HIV or HCV, of which they must also that most will not disclose either because of privacy concerns or frankly because they just don't know their own status. Also, have you ever asked your dentist or hygenist what their HCV status is? Have they been tested? I have a feeling you will be surprised at the answer. Because statistically, a dentist (or any health care worker) has more chance of infecting the patient than the other way around. This is where hopefully universal precautions come in.

Jeff: but knowing someone has a blood-borne communicable disease makes me extra careful with every incision I make and every stitch I place. I always take care to let the scrub nurse know that I'm placing a needle or blade on the mayo stand,
------------------------------
I'm sure you're a real pro as well as your staff -- but frankly, I would prefer to have my surgeon (and support staff) giving 100% concentration to my operation and not thinking about what might happen to their viral status if they make a slip. If surgery is like other tasks I'm more familiar with, then practice makes perfect in part because we have gone beyond the "thinking" stage and more into the reflexive stage.

[Proactive]

"This is where hopefully universal precautions come in."
Jesus Christ, I almost pee'd in my pants with that comment...;^)

I have to get outside, you're killing me here..(vbg)
Pro

[Fl_Gator]

I went to the dentist today...I had my teeth cleaned like any other appt that I have had with the same hygenist over the last ten years...On my last appointment, six months ago, I told her that I had HCV she noted it in my chart and went on with business as usual...

This time she asked how my tx went and wished me well....then the same dentist came and checked my teeth afterwards...we discussed having a crown done on a tooth that had a root canal about 15 years ago from a different dentist...he has wanted to fix that tooth for many years...this year is no different

Some people are more educated than others...I feel fortunate to have such good care.

I did have a tinge of panic for a few minutes though...I still don't know how I contracted HCV...it may have been from a dentist many years ago...but I am not going to stop taking care of my teeth for fear of getting this again.

[Rockerforlife]

THE can of worms are open again...here we go

[Rockerforlife]

Simple...just go to a dentist that specilaizes with hep patients...can of worms closed....only one thing tho...a longer waiting time to see the dentist..and are only maybe one or two in one state or province

[apache1]

Hey Proactive, why not go one step further ?

Get a medical bracelet or necklace showing your HCV status. That way, god forbid, you get into an accident, are unconscious and bleeding badly, then everybody knows to leave you alone unless they are properly protected.

Imo, lots more of a chance to infect somebody like that, than at the dentist office.



====================================================
quote by Jim,
I'm sure you're a real pro as well as your staff -- but frankly, I would prefer to have my surgeon (and support staff) giving 100% concentration to my operation and not thinking about what might happen to their viral infection if they make a slip.
If surgery is like other tasks I'm more familiar with, then practice makes perfect in part because we have gone beyond the "thinking" stage and more into the reflexive stage
=======================================================

Excellent point Jim.

And another good reason to only tell only, on a need to know basis.
If medical professionals do not treat every patient as if they had a communicable disease, they are not doing their jobs correctly as their license or certification requires.

Imo, No need to get your surgeon shaking in his boots. Or preoccupied with anything but how to preform your surgery to the best of his ability. That might even make them nervous enough to make a mistake and get infected, or worse.

I wonder how many medical professionals with HCV, or Hiv, etc, tell their patients.

[Rockerforlife]

Why not get wear a t-shirt that says...".I HAVE HEPAITIS C"....

[Facta_non_verba]

Jim:

The reason surgeons and OR staff get injured in the first place is that they end up lost in concentration while taking care of their patients. It’s that reflexive part you mentioned where we get in trouble. The handing back and forth of sharp instruments is completely routine. That routine needs to be interrupted to prevent accidents, but it’s impossible to do so continually since it is, indeed, a routine task. Universal precautions are necessary, but because of human nature they are a simplistic approach to preventing the spread of infection.

That extra knowledge is to protect me, which is vital because my life is just as important as my patient's. Professionalism dictates that physicians must sometimes put their patient's interests before their own. Cancelling out on dinner plans, missing family functions and getting called in at three o'clock in the morning are all part of the deal. I just want as much information as possible to protect myself, since a surgeon is much more likely to be infected by a patient with Hep C than vice versa. There are only a handful of known cases of surgeons infecting patients, whereas hundreds of healthcare workers are infected annually. I don’t have the statistics for Hep C, but approximately 250 healthcare workers die each year from chronic Hep B infection. There’s a vaccine for Hep B with a high number of healthcare workers vaccinated and still 250 healthcare workers die from Hep B? I imagine the spread of Hep C infection from patient to surgeon is much higher.

I assume you are a good driver and take all the necessary precautions to avoid being involved in a traffic accident. Are you more careful on New Year's Eve or do you treat it like any other night? How about when it rains or snows?

Jeff

[Facta_non_verba]

Jim:

Just re-read my post. That last paragraph isn't meant to be sarcastic.

Jeff

[Bill1954]

Jeff, your insight here is invaluable; thank you very much for sharing this info. I’ve never hesitated telling any health care provider that I am HCV RNA positive for just the reasons you’ve mentioned; and I’ve never perceived any bias or prejudicial treatment (that I’m aware of) for doing so.

I’d hope that the medical profession has the sophistication to look beyond this disease as a barrier to equal care, and respect a patient for offering this knowledge, regardless of the rules of uniform precaution.

Thanks again for your input—I’ll continue to notify phlebotomists or anyone else that comes at me with a sharp object; that includes muggers, ex-wives, etc :o).

Bill

[jmjm530]

Sarcasm is OK, but I didn't read it that way :) I do see your point as I'm sure you see the other side when some of us end up with dentists or physicians not as enlightened as yourself.

As for my own experiences, I did tell both my dentist and periodontist prior to treatment both because: (1) at that time I felt I should; (2) I thought there may tx issues with my teeth and wanted them to be even more diligent in terms of care. Neither actually made any sort of deal about it, at least to me, as opposed to what some others report here. How they internalized the info in terms of protection/care I have no knowledge of.

Where I have run into what I might term prejudicial treatment was from some medical specialists. It was subtle but I did get the sense in a couple of instances that they wanted me in and out faster than usual (which btw is pretty fast these days :) ). One proctologist, for example, didn't even bother to do the digital exam twice in a row. Not that I missed it, but I can't say I remember any proctologist skipping that step prior to my disclosing I had Hep C. The other was with two skin specialists who handled me like a leper on treatment. I switched skin specialists at the end of treatment, did not disclose my HCV treatment, and got considerably more professional and personal care.

I guess we all have to make our decisions in this from where we are at. But going back to one of my previous points -- my guess is that depending on how many operations you do a year -- that you cut into someone with HCV or HIV several times a year without knowing that fact. So, if it were me, I think I'd treat every patient as if they were a potential threat although probably easier in theory than practice.

-- Jim

[jmjm530]

That should have been "urologist", not "proctologist" although both go into the same opening but hopefully are looking for different things :)

[Rockerforlife]

If a Dentist flashed to the world on his front door....i have hep c.....would you look for another dentist?...you bet your sweet a.ss you would...so...if i told my dentist i had hep c....wouldnt he do the same.....you bet your sweet a.ss he would....most would anyway

[copyman]

everyone has their own opinion on this and the right to decide who to tell. i just feel now is not the right time in our society to reveal this to many people. you can fool yourself all you want and think you will not be treated differently but you are just kidding yourself. of course there are those that just don't care how other people look at them or feel about them. unfortuantely I'm one that is bothered by how people look at me so I will stay silent for now.

[JennyPenny]

Of course it is entirely up to you whether to tell or not to tell. I for one, tell every medical professional and I have never been treated any differently. In fact, I have been able to educate more nurses and PA's, as well as dental hygientists about HCV because they always ask questions. Another reason I tell is to ensure that I get the proper treatment. Sometimes a particular anesthesia or medication is better for the liver than another and I want to the best care I can get.

[Deb_c430]

i always tell them, embarrrassing yes, with a new dentist especially.   But for me it is about protecting myself and patients who come after me.  The dentist.

If they have a problem with it I will find another dentist, I think in this day and age most are aware of it and iads as well.

[Myown]

"But I found it ODD that  I had a filling that was old and needed to be replaced and when I asked him if he could do this he said it was better to leave it alone."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Your dentist was right and I say that because unless a doctor has experience in "properly" removing mercury fillings, it is dangerous. Mercury fillings are not good for our health, but if a dentist doesn't have experience in removing them, it can make things worse - swallowing particles, breathing in fumes etc. I think (?) most countries have banned the use of mercury fillings, but not the USA.

It is not easy to find a dentist that has experience in this. Many dentists will do it, but are unaware or don't believe the risk that they not only put you in, but everyone in the room - UNLESS proper procedure is followed.

If you find time, watch this video and you will see the why it is so dangerous to have mercury fillings and IF you do get it removed, which eventually you should, I am serious about be careful who you allow to do it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ylnQ-T7oiA

[jankar]

I have always told my dentists I have HCV - maybe in retrospect that is why I got poor periodontal care until such time as my gums were in quite a bad state.  I finally found a dentist who advertises periodontal gum care and am very happy with him and his hygienist.

You do need to advise that you have HCV - it is ethically irresponsible for you not to do that if you know so the health providers can protect themselves appropriately.  However, dentists do protect themselves to the maximum standard as they don't really know who has what.

[pitter]

Just so ya know, I have told every doc and dentist that I have been to that I have hep c. Including my GP, whom I had gone to for 25 yrs., well,  all of a  sudden, I was getting big problems getting  my scripts refilled, and when I went there I Felt a difference. I finally left after 3 consecutive script mess ups (sleep aids, so I was left without help with sleeping 3x in a row.)
Personnally I feel a diff in how I am treated after I have told med help pros.. and it is not paranoia for me.
My dental office said that it doesn't make a difference, that they treat all patients with the
same precautions.
I am a hair dresser part time., and I disinfect every comb or brush or cape I use on anyone...and if I cut myself, I take care of it., so my blood does not get on anything or anyone. I don't let any one else at work share my gloves etc.
I understand what people are saying here to protect others, and that is why I do tell, but I am honestly getting to the point of NOT telling anymore, because of the idiots out there like Scarlettes dentist, and my doctor.
I thought I was being so gallantly honest for other peoples sakes. Well I probably still will,
cuz I don't want to pass it on...but it really is the responsibility of the health care people to follow the proper procedures, just like I do...even if I don't feel like it sometimes.
And some of the people who work in those places may not care if they do or don't give it to someone else anyway!
So my idea is (with whomever said that they) tell when someone really needs to know.
And using the "I have a friend who has hep c " is a cool way to bring it to their attention at least.
thanks
Pitter

[Harry Potter]

I told 2 healthcare professionals about my Hep C status: my dentist (via letter, since when I found out I was way between appointments) and my laser hair removal nurse.  

With my dentist, I see that they've added "HCV+" to my chart, but have never asked me anything about it.  As with all my dentists out here (in Ca), regardless of the HCV thing, they ask you first thing if your health has changed in any way, and ask you to sign a release form.  My dentist is very thorough: he checks BP, checks your glands, checks for lockjaw with each and every visit--and goes over your daily diet & exercise routines.

With my laser hair removal nurse, since she used a razor to shave me prior to the lasering, I felt it was necessary to tell her--and she thanked me very enthusiastically for informing her, and went on to list how many people in the healthcare profession she knew who had HCV.  She also (since she's something of a homeopathic devotee) asked me about milk thistle & other natural supplement-type things and if I'd be interested in that.  

I know my experiences have been (so far) ideal, but I just feel better for saying.  I haven't informed the phlebotomists though, as they always wear gloves & don't re-use the needles (which I don't think, but I'm not sure, my laser hair removal nurse did w/the razor--and I know the dentists re-use equipment; if they want to sterilize the stuff they've used on me a little longer, so be it!)

[pitter]

yea Harry

[cathy77]

I fully understand your experiences with dentists, I have noticed a vast difference in treatment since being diagnosed with hepc which I was unaware of for 28 years from a transfusion, during that time had surgery and numerous dental work, now  problems I have and the amount of changes of dentists has been daunting, having  diagnosed Sjorgrens syndrome whilst on treatment I need extra hygiene because of the lack of salivia many of them are just not aware of the condition and its problems and during cleaning which is tiptoe and scanty besides expensive I have suffered, however I keep my fingers crossed that now I have found a good one the first time in 2 years I had my teeth cleaned and inspected thoroughly just as before my hep c was discovered with the person understanding the virus is blood to blood treating every patient the same with care.. Cathy77

[ScarlettOscara]

   I want to say thank you for everyones input for my question/problem.
It was really interesting to read ALL your comments and I also learned a good deal I didn't know before. I was diagnosed only 4 years ago, though I have most likely had HCV for half my life (no wonder I always felt so tired! ha! ha!). I realize what a serious virus this is but I try not to get depressed over it...I think I was so relieved to find out that I didn't also have AIDS due to the wild life I USED to lead.
   That being said, after reading everyones comments and doing some deep soul searching and lots of thought..I have decided on my approach. First let me say that as long as I have KNOWN I had HCV I have had HCV I have had major surgery and blood tests, and I DID stress the fact to all involved that I had hepatitis C so they would protect themselves. I DO fell embarrassed telling people but I would not let that put someone else at risk=I really COULDN"T sleep at night thinking about that. The difference however is this...when you are about to go into surgery and you tell the surgeon, doctors, nurses, etc. they are most likely not going to refuse to operate on you. I think (though I may be wrong) that when someone decides to become a doctor/surgeon/nurse, they are aware that they will be dealing with SICK people, many with contagious, possibly deadly diseases. On the other hand (again I may be wrong in my assumption), I think that when someone studies to become a dentist they are not necessarily thilnking about fixing peoples teeth with contagious and possibly deadly diseases.....it could come up, but most likely they're just going to help you have a beautiful smile.
   I have found a new dentist that takes my insurance in my area, I have an appointment Januarky 9th...and I have decided...I AM GOING TO TELL THE DENTIST THAT I HAD HEP C BUT WAS CURED THROUGH THE PEGINTERFERON (A treatment i DID try but which did not work for me, unfortunately)..I WILL TELL HIM HOWEVER THAT MY DOCTOR HAD TOLD ME I SHOULD BE NON-CONTAGIOUS BUT THAT SINCE THEY CAN NEVER BE 100% SURE WITH "THESE THINGS" THAT I AND OTHERS SHOULD ALWAYS TAKE THE NECESSARY PRECAUTIONS. That's it. The reason I have decided upon this decision is because after searching the web all weekend for a dentist who takes my insurance in new york city..I only found 5..one has the worst reviews i've ever read, one's a pediatric dentist and the other 3 is all I have left. If these dentists don't want to work on me I refuse to just let my teeth rot out of my mouth. I have tried to look at the WHOLE picture, that I am only 1 person, what if I infected many by just going to the dentist? Should I just let my teeth go for the sake of all mankind? I probably should..but in reality I think this is too much to ask of a human being..perhaps if I were a saint it would be different..St. Scarlett Toothless..she gave her very life just in CASE her dentist didn't properly clean his instruments. I don't know..it really is allot to think about. HOWEVER I am sure if I tell the dentist I am cured but precautions MUST be taken that I can get my teeth fixed and be sure he/she protects themselves and everyone will be happy.
  I am curious to know what everyone thinks and again I really do appreciate all your advice and comments! Have a happy and healthy new year! ScarllettOscara

[jdwithhcv]

You asked, so I will tell you honestly what I think.  You have cooked up an elaborate lie, then you state your justification for lying, and now you are asking for forum members to endorse your scheme.  Obviously you believe that dishonesty is acceptable if you have what you consider to be a good excuse.  Why do you need anybody's advice or comments?  Do you want someone to tell you that it is ok?  Why?  You have made your decision and you are an adult, so take responsibility for your own actions.  

You might consider what you would do if the situation were reversed and your dentist had Hep C and lied to you about it, but he had a "good" excuse for lying?  Would that be ok with you?

[meakea]

It seems like a very elaborate lie...and it feels exhausting.  I told my dentist and he didn't even bat an eye...and I got the same care I always did.

[cathy77]

I must say there have been times when i have been tempted, but it is a good dentist who understands, stick the one's that dont they are not much good I know that from experience.

Cathy77

[ScarlettOscara]

I wasn't asking for endorsement. I just thought because so many people had given me their thoughts that they might have been interested in what I decided and why.
As for if the shoe was on the other foot..I would be rather my dentist told me he MIGHT be contagious so I could decide to stay, rather than say nothing at all.
I am sorry if it seemed to you I was seeking approval.

[Harry Potter]

Okay, you asked, so I'm telling.  There's lots of different ways of lying; I think lying by omission is one, the "they didn't ask so I didn't tell"--that I'd be okay with, since it should be the dentist's responsiblity to ask in the first place.  But this is a different thing entirely, creating a convoluted scenario & in effect hoodwinking your dentist.  I just don't see what the big deal is.  You're in New York (or so I gather), I would think professionals there (actually anywhere) would be more informed.  I know you had a bad experience with one, but that doesn't mean your next experience would be so bad.  I'm no legal scholar, but aren't there some standards that dentists have to adhere to in treating patients?  Can they wilfully discriminate against Hep C patients, or HIV+ people?  I know maybe back in the '80s when AIDS was such a scourge, and not too many people knew how to prevent it...but this is 25 yrs later, the medical profession (and dental) have learned lots.  I also wouldn't make a decision based on an online review of a dentist (or doctor, or restaurant); I've found that the vast majority of people don't bother to review a given something, unless their experience has been out of this world extraordinary, or extraordinarily bad.  So the online reviews don't tell enough of the story.

Anyway, it's your scheme, I just hope you don't follow through with it.  Better to say nothing at all to your dentist, than to wilfully mislead them.  What would you do if, somehow, this came back to haunt you, that you were so conflicted that you eventually told the truth to your dentist, about this potential lie, wouldn't you look a whole lot worse to him then?  

[Harry Potter]

On further thought, imagine this scenario: I'm a HCV+ gay male, and I'm feeling frisky, what with the holidays & whatnot.  I'm going to hook up with a friend & have unprotected anal sex.  But I'm going to tell him I'm HCV-, because if he knew I was +, he might not do the deed.  Also, it's his own fault for not taking the right precautions, what with HIV & other STD's out there, so if he contracts HCV from me from my little white lie, I'm in the clear because he should've known better himself.

[ScarlettOscara]

Thank you for your input. I will reconsider just outright telling the dentist. Unike jdwithhepc said I was not asking anyone to cndone my thoughts or tell me to do it or not to do it...it is just that it really helps to have other peoples thoughts and experiences on this who have Hep C. I don't know any one with Hep C I can talk to about this, and there is allot I don't know.  

But about your scenerio where you are a gay male and feeling frisky and just don't tell the other guy..it would be more like telling the other guy I may still have hep c so use protection..and you wouldn't do it if he didn't use protection. To be fair that is a closer scenerio. I never said I just wouldn't say anything.

I am in New York city and you would think dentists would be more knowledgeable here, it surprises me, I have had 2 experiences not one. Hopefully I have just been unlucky and this next dentist will be different.

The following are some reviews on a dentist around the corner from me who I was going to make an appointment with, maybe this will shed a little more light on why I am afraid no one will help me;

____________________________________________________________________________  

Jill A.
New York, NY
1 star rating12/20/2008
Avoid at all costs. We call him "Dr. Pain." Horrible manner, terrible dentist. He upsells while your mouth is numb, ie "if you want the white filling it'll be $40, do you want it" while you can't speak. Terrible, terrible.

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0

1
K B.

New York, NY
1 star rating11/26/2008
I had a terrible experience with Jeffrey Krantz. I am an Ivy League educated PhD and work for the United Nations on HIV/AIDS policy. Dr. Krantz saw me reading work related material in his office and immediately launched into a lengthy monologue about how, in his opinion, all gay people (whom he referred to as "those people") should be forced to be tested for HIV. After about 5 minutes of this, I interrupted him to say I was formulating a position paper on voluntary HIV testing. Dr. Krantz told me "You can position all you want honey." He worked on me for about 25 minutes and was extremely irate and nervous the whole time. He repeated 5 times "we need to get you out of here as fast as possible," yelled at his assistant to hurry up, and he changed his gloves three times while working on me. I was completely shocked. I will never go there again and I would not advise anyone to go there.

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0

12
John Y.

New York, NY
1 star rating5/30/2008
1 star if you live nearby.  Otherwise avoid.  Not sure if other dentists work out of the office but I was with Jeffrey Krantz.

Poor communicator and only seems interested in billing you.  

I've gone twice.  Thought my first visit was hopefully an anomaly but on each visit I was ignored and left to sit in the chair while he worked on other patients or dealt with other matters, and this was with an appointment!

When he was with me, he'd spend a few minutes looking at my teeth then step out.  Few minutes, then step out.  It could just be his patient load is too high, but honestly, he needs to work on his people skills.  Didn't answer any questions I had, but proceeded to tell me all about how he bills his patients.  When I was done, he didn't say a word to me and went on to another patient.  I was sitting in the chair when his assistant came in and said "Oh, you know you're finished right?"  Believe it or not, this happened on both my visits.  I was supposed to come back because he only cleaned half of my teeth, but he never communicated this to me or to his assistant because she didn't even bother to schedule me for another appointment.  Thank god!

Can't say this enough.  AVOID.  Many better choices for dental work.  If you do need to go here, make sure you know how much your insurance charges you because they incorrectly billed me twice.

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________________________________________________________________________

I realize this is only one dentist in my area but ist really scares me. I feel you are right though , it is better to just be honest, and it is ture if someone is like that I really don't want them near me or my teeth. Thanks Harry Potter .

[ScarlettOscara]

On re-reading my last post, I need to talk about that scenerio again where the gay guy feels frisky and does,not tell his partner anything..I was in NO way saying it would be Okay to tell him you MAY have hep c and to use protection. The whole scenerio just kind of freaked me out. I think that would be a really horrible thing to do.

I  really don't think it's the same as telling a dentist you may still have hep c and to use protection. A dentist sees so many people a year that if everyone was suggesting he suit up and clean everything thoroughly it would be a good thing. I do get your point however and am changing my mind about the situation.

Thanks again.

[epiphiny]

I understand how hard this is for you, it is difficult to deal with other people's prejudice and especially now that you have 2 bad experiences but honestly, Scarlett, I can't see the difference between telling the dentist you might still have hep c and you have hep c, other than the moral judgment that you are presuming the dentist will make.

What about ringing a few dental surgeries and being upfront about the situation; tell them you have Hep C, you have had compromised dental treatment in the past and you want to know you will receive the best treatment possible from the dentist before you go ahead.  If they have a problem they can say so immediately and no one is forced to be embarrassed or to have to lie.

I also see that you said you are limited in your choices due to your insurance, can you travel a bit further to broaden your horizon for an appropriate dentist, or as a last resort pay for the treatment yourself if the dentist you find is not covered by your insurance?

Btw, a GOOD dentist will always use appropriate safety and sterilization procedures so I don't really think you need to tell them to glove up.  If they didn't glove up etc I would be out of that chair in a shot.  There are more things than Hep C that you can catch from unsterilized procedures and equipment and some of them kill faster.

Make a few phone calls, decide to tell the truth and hold your head up high!

Good luck!

Epi :)

[fretboard]

I had a dentist appt. for a cleaning around a month ago.  I've been seeing this same dentist for over 30yrs. except I did stop going there for awhile after I told him that I had HepC.  In 1992 when I was diagnosed, I promptly notified my dentist on the forms and in person.  The day I told him and his assistant I was infected, I felt like I had just told them that I was gonna rob them or something, the looks they both gave me made me feel really small.  It was totally unbelievable, I don't remember ever being treated so coldly in all my life.  I stopped seeing him for 3 or 4 years after that.  On my last appt. for the cleaning, the hygenist asked me what kind of hepatitis I had, I said that I had HepC.  I'm sure I may even hear more about this and if I do, and I don't like how it's handled I will certainly say something.  I won't even be surprised if the dentist says that he can't see me anymore, that's his right and I will accept it cause it's the right thing for me to do.  Hopefully it's handled alot better than it was when I told him back in 1992.  Since that bad experience, I don't share my HepC status with any dentist and I don't feel like I'm being dishonest or anything.  Some ppl have decent experiences when they tell their dentist that they are HepC positive, I didn't at all.  good luck

[Marcia2202]

I have not had one single negative reaction from anyone I've told that I have hep C. I even tell people at the spa, acupuncturist, etc. I was diagnosed in March this year. My dentist and her assistant were very sweet to accommodate all my appointments that I would be finished with all the dental work before I started treatment in August. I have been going there for 10 years and my husband for over 25. They were concerned for me that I am ill and are wishing me all the best to get well.

Maybe the health professionals etc are more educated about this disease here in Denmark, as none of them seem to care at all treating me. I usually get this, 'don't worry about me, we are prepared for this in our profession'. They must be learning about the risks in medical school and in beauty school.

[R Glass]

I have had both good and bad experiences with Health Care Workers. Some added to my depression and some made me fill good and upbeat.
Now that I am SVR, I attend to continue having my “Come To Jesus Meeting” with them. The only thing that will change is, they will fully understand that I am more afraid of them than they are of me. I don’t care if they may think that I need Mental Help for my “Blood Phobia” but, there will be no misunderstanding, they will completely sterilize any thing they plan to use on me.

[Rockerforlife]

The truth of the matter is.....reverse the situation...if you were the dentist and a patient told you he had a deadly contagious disease?...im saying its right....but thats reality....oods are most people will trat you like a leper if you tell

[Rockerforlife]

i meant...."im NOT saying its right"

[GreatBird]

I've never had anyone treat me that way. Not a medical professional. Not a friend. Not an acquaintance. I've had medical professionals ask me why I'm not treating and be concerned about me, but that's the extent of it. I have never hidden my status from anyone (although I don't go around telling people about it either unless it's appropriate).

If we are ashamed of our disease, or embarrassed, or in anyway feeling that it makes us less we are opening the door to be treated like we should be.

Did anyone here *choose* do have hepC? I don't think so.

[GreatBird]

Should have reread that one for clarity . . .

>>If we are ashamed of our disease, or embarrassed, or in anyway feeling that it makes us less we are opening the door to be treated like we should be.<<

What I meant was that if we feel our self-worth is less because of this disease others will treat us like we are worth less.

But we are not.

[Rockerforlife]

The sad thing is,,,as we speak....thousands every year still get infected..

[epiphiny]

Thanks for saying that, I completely agree with you and that was also my experience.  Once I stopped feeling 'bad' about having HCV, I stopped projecting my feelings on to other people.  I always think people are a mirror to us, they are just reflecting ourselves back to us.

[pitter]

I personnally thought that these posts on this today were really good!
What we think of ourselves does create what others think!  your own CONFIDENCE in your self rules alot.
thanks, that wa so important to see.
Pitter

[fretboard]

>>If we are ashamed of our disease, or embarrassed, or in anyway feeling that it makes us less we are opening the door to be treated like we should be.<<

I don't know about the warm fuzzy part of having the disease or if having higher self esteem should even come into the picture.  By saying that, I think you're making an excuse for dentist to treat some patients like krap.  Just because you haven't been stigamatized doesn't mean that it doesn't happen.  Also I think it happens across the board and I don't think it happens because of the above mentioned.  However if you are right, then please post some evidence that says that it's ok for a dentist to treat you like krap and the acceptable reasons for doing so.

[nygirl7]

I dont really think that most dentists think about us all that much after we leave the office really and doubt that one would be prompted to tell another patient that you have the disease.  A LOT of people do and it's only the correct thing to do to tell the dentist.

About the antibiotics...........they no longer give antibiotics to people who have heart murmurs (in general) - I just recently went to the cardiologist who told me that practice has been abandoned, so I doubt that they would ever think it necessary to give them to someone with hepc. There really would be no need for such a thing that I can think of.

Nobody should be treated like krap for having hepC but we do all realize that there are ignorant morons in the world - dentist or not........and if one treated me badly I'd just up and leave him and go elsewhere. Not everyone is a complete idiot and you are bound to find a decent person eventually. I've been to several different dentist and none of them have treated me poorly due to my disease.

[GreatBird]

If a dentist won't treat you because you have Hep C or doesn't treat you well (providing the service that you are paying for) then you should not only stop seeing them, but you should inform your insurance company (by letter) that the dentist is unacceptable why.

Complaining to the *right* place often brings results. It's also perfectly fair to expect your insurance company to provide you with a dentist who will take good care of your teeth--hep C or not. That's the whole point of having dental insurance!

[zooz333]

i think you should keep the fact that you have hcv always to yourself, except for people who are close to you!!!!!
people unfortunatly don't respond well to the fact the you have it and many medically illiterate people will even be scared of you and treat you like ******, which ofcourse is very humiliating
even the dentist, why would you tell him anyway. he should always exercise caution regardless he knows or not. What if a patient has it or has HIV and doesn't know about it?? he should always be carefull anyhow and that's the dentist you should pick in the 1st place for your OWN safety. There could be another patient who had HBV and doesn't know, how about that for you...
anyway that's my personal opinion....the ONLY people who know I have HCV are My parents, girlfriend, sisters and my hepatologist!!!!

cheers.......

[Rockerforlife]

dont forget everyone on this site knows you have hep c too...MILLIONS OF PEOPLE

[streamline52]

Seems a little strange to me that any health care worker would care if we have hep c or not. Are they the very health care providers who never offered a blood test for hep c that so many of us now being told 20+ years later we are infected with?and can do little for now.
I have gone for many surgeries and a annual blood test my whole adult life and just now at 55 I'm told I have hep c and it may be the start of chirosis. If only my doctor had told me years ago I would have taken much better care of myself never to end up in this position.I do take responsibility for my mistakes, but just maybe the health professional should take responsiblity for their mistakes as well.

[zooz333]

yeah right........"rockerforlife"......;-)

yours truly.....zooz333.......:))

[ram921]

I used to pat myself on the back for being so up front with any medical or dental professionals re: my having hep C. I was naive. Not any more.  

[IMstacie]

There are a lot of doctors that are not familiar with HCV, there are probably more dentists.  Also, if you are on tx maybe you should take your latest lab results so the dentist can make an informed decision, i.e., if your platelets are low maybe now isn't the best time.  Heck, maybe we need to just educate them.  It's possible the problem is not the fact they may contract HCV as they all should be using standard precautions, it may be the fact, that they are afraid of doing further harm.  Just a thought.  I had my last visit before tx, I didn't mention it.  I had been going for years before I even knew I had it.

[IMstacie]

One more thing, people have caught hep c from dental procedures!  Maybe we should also be scrutinizing them!  I have two types now, I sure don't want a 3rd.  Or worse yet, get clear and then re-infected.

[Rockerforlife]

The first thing you gotta do when you go to a dentist is ask to see the sterization procedures they practice....you willbe shocked by some...SHOCKED

[Rockerforlife]

They are supposed to completely sterize the room before the next victim....they dont...i seen it....now i ask to see the tools taken directly from the machine and want to see how thay clean up after ....ALWAYS