What about dental appointments while on tx?

Do you guys ( we guys ) still go for cleanings during treatment?  And have you told your dentist about your status?  I've been going to the same dentist for over 25 years.
Pls advise**

[meki]

I told my dentist --- and the first thing he said is --- we've treated a lot of people with that condition - and we use Universal Precautions....

To be really honest - YOU should tell your dentist --- It won't make him not treat you - but it might make him extra careful so that you don't infect him or anyone else.

ALSO --- because of the chemo that you are on - it is imperative he know this --- so that he does not prescribe anything or do any damage that could become worse with your medications...

But --- this is a personal choice that you must make.

I think Dental care is VERY important.

You do not have to tell him how you THINK you got HCV --- and only if you know him really well should you go into details about your life.

Hugs!

Meki

[meki]

Also the meds can and do harm your gums and teeth... So take extra care of them!

[epiphiny]

I'm taking extra care of my teeth while on treatment as the meds dry up your saliva which means increased risk of cavities and infections because food particles and bacteria are not getting washed away as usual.  

I have upped my regular cleaning at the Dentists to every 8 weeks and I'm using Biotene mouthwash to help maintain oral hygiene and to help combat the dry mouth.

I told my dentist years ago that I had Hep C and he wasn't at all concerned as he follows very stringent protocols for equipment sterilization etc. I have also informed him I am on treatment at the moment and asked him to be extra vigilant during my check ups...