ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a concerning problem in dentistry and HIV-infected patients may experience root caries due to different risk factors. The aim of this study was to find the prevalence of root caries in a selected Iranian HIV-positive population. METHODS: One hundred and seven IV drug users, based on ELISA and Western Blot test, were divided into two groups: group 1: HIV-positive patients and group 2: HIV-negative individuals. According to the T-CD4(+) cell count, subjects in group 1 were placed in two subgroups: Moderate immunodeficiency (200 mm(-3) < T-CD4(+) cells <500 mm(-3)) and Severe immunodeficiency patients (T-CD4(+) cells <200 mm(-3)). Teeth were examined by an examiner under suitable light to detect any changes in colour, texture or contour. The values of DMFT, DMFS, decayed root surfaces and total decayed surfaces were calculated. Data were analysed by independent t-test and chi-squared test. RESULTS: The mean DMFT, DMFS and decayed root caries in group 1 and 2 had no significant difference. The mean value of total decayed surfaces of HIV+ patients was significantly higher compared with HIV- individuals (P = 0.03). The comparison of all parameters between two subdivisions of group 1 showed no significant difference. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that HIV+ patients experienced more dental caries, but not more root caries than healthy ones. Along with decreasing T-CD4(+) cell count, tooth caries' prevalence did not increase. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Based on our findings, root caries prevalence is almost the same in HIV-positive and negative individuals; however, it is necessary to decrease tooth caries by continual monitoring and periodic dental examination.
