New resource for dentists with Hep C patients

The Australasian Society for HIV Medicine has updated a resource to support dentists who treat patients with hepatitis C.

Dental and Orofacial Health and Hepatitis C has been written by dentists to provide an overview of the oral manifestations and complications associated with hepatitis C infection and treatments. ASHM Clinical Director of Viral Hepatitis, Prof. Bob Batey said dentists have an important role to play in the management of hepatitis C. "People living with hepatitis C are prone to tooth decay and often suffer a loss of self-esteem due to poor oral aesthetics. They can have difficulty with diet due to poor oral health and this leads to a compromised quality of life. Antiviral treatments used for hepatitis C can also lead to a range of orofacial and dental conditions," Prof. Batey said. "The updated booklet, endorsed by the ADA, provides a detailed and illustrated guide to common oral manifestations of hepatitis C including dry mouth, oral lichen planus and lymphoma," he said. Dental and Orofacial Health and Hepatitis C is available free.