Michael Goldrosen and Helene Bednarsh write:

“The dental community can join this important fight by being the first line of defense in identifying possible signs of HIV. Dental teams have a unique opportunity to identify individuals who may be HIV-positive and unaware of their status. There are oral conditions which may indicate the existence of HIV and, if identified, can provide an educational moment for oral health practitioners to discuss, counsel, and offer referral to HIV testing. Early diagnosis and linkage to medical care can significantly improve health outcomes. Increasing the number of people who know their HIV status can also help reduce the number of new cases, as once people are aware of their infection, they are significantly less likely to put others at risk of transmission….The CDC has suggested that each year, a significant portion of the population will visit a dental office, but not a medical office. In some states, dental offices are conducting rapid HIV testing, and this may be an appropriate venue in a public health facility or a private practice in a region with higher reports of HIV infection.”

For the complete Op-Ed by Michael Goldrosen and Helene Bednarsh, go to: http://www.baywindows.com/index.php?ch=opinion&sc=letters&sc2=news&sc3=&id=93159

The rapid HIV test only takes a few seconds for collection and 20 minutes for processing. In the time it takes for an exam and medical history review, the results will be available for discussion with the patient. For more detailed information on testing and videos describing the test, see www.hivdent.org.